Founders Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop from Lake Forest
Founders Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop from Lake Forest
3.4
(28)
91
riders
Founders Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop from Lake Forest
01:52
44.4km
160m
Road cycling
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 22, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 22.9 km for 96 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
6.33 km
General Sheridan Equestrian Statue
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
16.5 km
Founders Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
22.9 km
Christ Church Churchyard
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
39.2 km
Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
44.4 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
22.0 km
17.5 km
4.72 km
279 m
Surfaces
34.5 km
9.73 km
161 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 1 July
36°C
25°C
4 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an easy road cycling route with big scenic payoffs, the Founders Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop from Lake Forest is definitely worth your time. This 27.6-mile (44.4 km) route, rated easy, offers 533 feet (162 metres) of elevation gain and can be completed in about 1 hour and 52 minutes. It's perfect for cyclists of any fitness level seeking picturesque views without a strenuous climb.
What to expect on Founders Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop from Lake Forest
This route delivers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes, primarily on well-paved surfaces. You'll pedal past stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, through extensive forest preserves, and alongside wetlands, bluffs, and prairies. The highlight is undoubtedly the impressive lake overlook situated on a 70-foot-high bluff, offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan. As you ride, you'll also pass through the historic Fort Sheridan district, where self-guided educational exhibits provide a glimpse into its rich past. The gentle topography makes this an accessible ride, ideal for a relaxed outing where the scenery is the main event.
Planning your visit
The Founders Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop is easily accessible, with Founders Park serving as a convenient starting point. Parking is generally available, though it's always wise to arrive earlier on busy weekends. The well-paved surfaces make this a great year-round option, though spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Remember that while the preserve has paved trails for biking, some grass trails are off-limits to bicycles. This route also connects to larger regional systems like the Robert McClory Bike Path, offering options for extending your ride.
Trail details
- Distance: 27.6 miles (44.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 533 feet (162 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 52 minutes
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