The best road cycling routes around Cedar Lake

There are over 5 road cycling routes around Cedar Lake, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes extensively, with over 112 visitors recording their tours.

Yes, Cedar Lake offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Lake County Fairgrounds loop is an easy 16.0-mile (25.8 km) trail, and the Ivan Gatlin Nature Preserve loop from Lake County is another accessible option at 13.7 miles (22.1 km).

For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Chase Street Conservation Area – Oak Savannah Trail loop from Center Township is a notable option, spanning 35.1 miles (56.5 km). Another moderate route is the Little Calumet River – Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail loop from Ivy Tech Community College, which covers 31.8 miles (51.1 km).

Many of the routes around Cedar Lake are suitable for families due to the region's generally flat to gently rolling terrain. Easy loops like the Lake County Fairgrounds loop are great choices for a pleasant family outing.

The best seasons for road biking around Cedar Lake are typically spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and the natural scenery is vibrant. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

Specific parking information varies by route. For routes like the Little Calumet River – Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail loop from Ivy Tech Community College, you can often find parking facilities near the starting points, such as at Ivy Tech Community College. Always check the individual route details on komoot for precise parking recommendations.

For a road bike ride in Cedar Lake, essential items include a helmet, water bottles, snacks, a repair kit (spare tube, pump, tire levers), and appropriate clothing for the weather. Given the varied scenery, a camera might also be a good idea to capture the views.

Yes, the routes often pass through or near natural areas. For example, the Ivan Gatlin Nature Preserve loop from Lake County takes you directly through a nature preserve. Many routes also follow the Little Calumet River, offering pleasant riverside views.

The road cycling experience in Cedar Lake is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's accessible, flat to gently rolling terrain, the scenic river corridors, and the well-maintained rail-trails that make for enjoyable rides.

While popular routes can see more activity, exploring trails that venture slightly further from central points, such as the Little Calumet River – Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail loop from Hyles-Anderson College, might offer a quieter experience, especially during off-peak hours.

The duration of road cycling routes around Cedar Lake varies depending on the distance and your pace. Shorter loops like the Lake County Fairgrounds loop can be completed in just over an hour, while longer routes such as the Chase Street Conservation Area – Oak Savannah Trail loop from Center Township might take around 2.5 to 3 hours.