The best cycling routes around Harwood Heights
4.7
(141)
1,495
riders
53
rides
Touring cycling around Harwood Heights benefits from its location near extensive regional trail systems and natural areas within Cook County, Illinois. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various cycling abilities. The area provides access to multi-use paved trails that follow the North Branch of the Chicago River, passing through diverse landscapes of forests, wetlands, and open savannas. These routes often connect to the broader Forest Preserves of Cook County, offering a variety of ecosystems.
Best touring cycling routes around Harwood Heights
- The most popular touring cycling route is North Branch Trail and Botanic Garden Loop, a 58.0 miles (93.3 km) trail that takes 5 hours 21 minutes to complete. This route explores the extensive North Branch Trail system and offers connections towards the Chicago Botanic Garden.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is North Branch Trail – Chicago Botanic Garden loop from Gladstone Park, a moderate 45.6 miles (73.4 km) path. This route features paved surfaces through wooded areas along the North Branch of the Chicago River, offering scenic views.
- Local touring cyclists also love the North Branch Red Paved Trail – North Branch Trail loop from Edgebrook, an 18.1 miles (29.2 km) trail leading through forest preserves, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Harwood Heights is defined by multi-use paved trails, forest preserves, and routes along the North Branch of the Chicago River. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging long-distance rides.
- The routes in Harwood Heights are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Harwood Heights's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
3.0
(1)
19
riders
93.3km
05:22
130m
130m
The North Branch Trail and Botanic Garden Loop offers a substantial touring cycling experience, primarily on paved surfaces that wind through the natural areas of the North Branch Trail system. You'll enjoy long stretches of dedicated cycle way, including sections of the North Branch Red Paved Trail and North Branch Black Paved Trail, leading to the picturesque Chicago Botanic Gardens. This route is designed for cyclists who appreciate extended rides and the blend of natural scenery with a cultivated destination.
Planning for this difficult 57.9-mile (93.3 km) ride, which typically takes 5 hours and 21 minutes, requires an early start to make the most of your day. While specific parking is not detailed, you can look for access points near Northcroft Park or other trailheads along the North Branch Trail. Remember to pack enough water and nutrition for the duration, as this is a significant undertaking.
This loop stands out as one of the best cycling trails near Chicago Botanic Garden, offering a unique opportunity to combine a challenging workout with a visit to a renowned natural attraction. It's an excellent choice for experienced cyclists looking for popular routes cycling that provide both distance and a rewarding destination, distinguishing it from shorter, more beginner-friendly options in the area.
4.8
(5)
39
riders
73.3km
04:25
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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13
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
riders
13.0km
00:45
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Pretty well paved, watch for flooding after heavy rains
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This is a six-acre oasis of native grasses and riparian habitat, with a great view of where the Chicago River and the North Shore Channel come together. Interesting fact: This natural area is mostly maintained by volunteers.
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1 mile mark from the "start" of this section of the trail. It opens up to a big open section that has park benches protected by a roof. The Parks department does a great job managing the natural space and balancing that with the recreational interests of visitors. There are lots of foot trails off the main paved path to explore. Unfortunately litter is often found on those paths.
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Caldwell Woods, situated on Chicago's northwest side, offers diverse recreational features including picnic groves, activity spaces, a warming shelter, sledding hill, and access to the well-loved North Branch Trail. Despite its compact size, this preserve boasts rich biodiversity, encompassing flatwoods, floodplain forests, open savanna, and oak woodlands, providing visitors with a varied and enjoyable natural experience.
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Stretching for about 20 miles, this trail meanders along the North Branch Chicago River, providing a serene experience surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. The well-maintained trail offers pleasant shade amidst lush greenery.
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The Ronan Park Sculpture Park & Healing Garden is located along the River Trail Path, along the Chicago River. In September 2021, six sculptures were first installed in Ronan Park to reflect healing, peace, and unity. The sculptures were not permanent, however; the Ronan Park Sculpture Garden is a rotating exhibition with current sculptures scheduled to be in changed every two years.
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The North Shore Channel, constructed between 1907 and 1910, was originally built to flush sewage from the North Branch of the Chicago River into the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. Today, the Chicago Deep Tunnel handles most of the sewage. Stretching from Wilmette to the North Branch of the Chicago River in Chicago, the Channel supports fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and has become a popular rowing venue. The North Shore Channel is a walking and biking path that runs along nearly the entire length of the channel, and notable sites include the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park and the Evanston Ecology Center.
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Very good area for hiking, jogging, picnic. It is a place where all outdoor activities are possible. It is a joy to be there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general terrain like for touring cycling routes around Harwood Heights?
The terrain for touring cycling around Harwood Heights is generally flat with minimal elevation changes. This makes it suitable for various cycling abilities. Routes primarily follow multi-use paved trails through diverse landscapes of forests and fields, often along the North Branch of the Chicago River and within the extensive Forest Preserves of Cook County.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Harwood Heights area?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes available around Harwood Heights. These routes offer a range of difficulties, with more than 30 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and a few more challenging options for experienced cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes near Harwood Heights?
Yes, many of the routes around Harwood Heights are family-friendly due to their generally flat terrain and paved surfaces. The extensive network of multi-use trails within the Forest Preserves of Cook County provides safe and enjoyable options for families. An easy option is the North Branch Red Paved Trail – North Branch Trail loop from Edgebrook, which is about 18 miles long and leads through forest preserves.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can I expect to see along the cycling routes?
Cycling routes around Harwood Heights offer access to various natural features and landmarks. You can explore areas like Caldwell Woods, which provides a direct entry point to the North Branch Trail. The trails often follow the North Branch Trail and pass through parts of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, where you can observe wildlife and enjoy wooded paths. The North Shore Channel and its trail are also accessible, featuring attractions like the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park further along.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Harwood Heights?
The touring cycling routes around Harwood Heights are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved trails, the peaceful wooded areas along the North Branch of the Chicago River, and the accessibility to extensive regional trail systems that offer diverse landscapes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes available. For example, the North Branch Trail and Botanic Garden Loop is a popular longer option. A moderate loop is the North Branch Red Paved Trail – North Branch Trail loop from Edison Park, which features paved surfaces through wooded areas. For a shorter, easy loop, consider the Catherine Chevalier Woods loop from Cumberland.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in the Harwood Heights area?
The best time of year for touring cycling in the Harwood Heights area, and the broader Chicago region, is typically spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural areas are vibrant. While trails are accessible year-round, conditions can vary with snow and ice in winter, and summer can bring warmer temperatures, so checking local forecasts is always recommended.
Is parking available near the touring cycling trails?
Yes, parking is generally available at various access points to the regional trail systems near Harwood Heights. Many forest preserves and park districts that manage these trails offer designated parking lots. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the starting point details on komoot for parking information.
Can I access the touring cycling trails using public transport?
While Harwood Heights itself is a suburban village, its proximity to Chicago's public transport network means that some trailheads may be accessible via a combination of Metra commuter rail and local bus services. For example, the North Branch Trail system has various access points that might be reachable from CTA or Metra stations, though direct, seamless connections to all trailheads may require some planning.
Are there any dog-friendly cycling routes in the area?
Many of the multi-use trails within the Forest Preserves of Cook County are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. These trails offer ample space for both cyclists and their canine companions to enjoy the outdoors. Always ensure to follow local regulations regarding pets on trails.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the cycling routes?
While the trails themselves often pass through natural areas, the Harwood Heights area and its surrounding suburbs, like Norridge and Edison Park, offer various cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can stop for refreshments. Many trailheads are located near residential or commercial areas, making it convenient to find places to eat or grab a coffee before or after your ride.
Are permits required for cycling on the trails near Harwood Heights?
Generally, permits are not required for recreational cycling on the multi-use trails within the Forest Preserves of Cook County or other public trail systems like the North Branch Trail. These trails are designed for public access. However, it's always a good idea to check the specific rules and regulations of any particular park or preserve you plan to visit, especially for larger groups or organized events.
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