The best traffic-free bike rides around Highland Park

This guide features 4 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Highland Park, offering a great starting point for exploring the area. These routes are carefully selected to provide a serene and safe cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.

Yes, the routes cater to various skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, and 1 moderate route for those seeking a bit more of a challenge. This ensures that both beginners and more experienced cyclists can find a suitable no-traffic option.

Highland Park's no-traffic routes often wind through beautiful natural preserves, offering immersive experiences in woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. You can expect scenic views of areas like Watersmeet Woods and the Skokie Lagoons, providing a refreshing escape into nature.

Absolutely. Many of the traffic-free routes are suitable for families, especially the easy-rated options. The city's commitment to bicycle-friendliness and its extensive trail system make it a great place for family outings. Consider routes that utilize paved multi-use trails for a smoother experience.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience in Highland Park, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 20 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet, car-free paths that allow for a peaceful ride, as well as the beautiful natural scenery found along routes like those near the Skokie Lagoons.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For instance, the Founders Park – Lakefront Park loop from Braeside offers an easy, traffic-free circular ride, perfect for enjoying the local scenery.

While focusing on traffic-free paths, some routes offer proximity to natural attractions. You might pass by beautiful bodies of water like Skokie Lagoon 5 or Skokie Lagoon No. 3. The area also features natural preserves such as MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve, providing opportunities to enjoy the local flora and fauna.

Highland Park's trails are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring through fall, when the natural preserves are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant for cycling. While some paved trails might be accessible in winter, always check local conditions for ice or snow.

Many of the routes leverage dedicated multi-use paths and trails that are entirely car-free. The North Branch Trail system, for example, is a popular choice for traffic-free cycling. The Skokie Lagoon 5 – North Branch Black Paved Trail loop from Ravinia is an excellent example of a route utilizing such car-free sections.

The Preserve of Highland Park is a significant natural area developed from a former golf course, featuring green lawns, native gardens, and restored woodlands. It includes walking and biking trails that connect neighborhoods and regional biking trails. It's a great spot for passive recreation and nature immersion. You can learn more about it at visitlakecounty.org.

For those looking for a longer, moderate challenge without traffic, the Founders Park – Shelton Park loop from Highland Park is a great option. This route covers over 23 kilometers and offers a moderate difficulty, allowing for a more extended and engaging ride.