The best cycling routes around Lemont

There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Lemont, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars.

Lemont's touring cycling routes feature a mix of riverine paths, historic canal routes, and forest preserve trails. You'll find everything from flat, crushed stone paths along the I&M Canal to rolling hills within the Palos Forest Preserves, offering varied scenery and challenges.

Yes, Lemont offers several easy routes. For instance, The Arboretum at Penn State loop from Pennsylvania State University is an easy 11.7 km path with moderate elevation, perfect for a relaxed ride. The I&M Canal Trail and sections of the Cal-Sag Trail also provide flat, paved, or crushed stone surfaces ideal for families.

For those seeking a moderate challenge, routes like State College to Bellefonte offer a 39.3 km ride with over 300 meters of elevation gain. Another popular moderate option is The Arboretum at Penn State – Hort Woods loop from State College, which is 19.2 km long with around 165 meters of ascent.

Many routes in Lemont are designed as loops, providing convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Hort Woods – Blue Course Bikeway loop from State College is a 36.9 km route that takes you through local green spaces. The Palos Trail System also offers numerous loop options within its extensive network.

Lemont's routes pass by several interesting natural features. You can explore the historic Illinois and Michigan (I&M) Canal, former limestone quarries now forming freshwater lakes, and the scenic Des Plaines River. Highlights include Rothrock State Forest and Millbrook Marsh Nature Center. The region is also home to the unique Midwestern Bluff Savanna at Waterfall Glen.

Beyond natural beauty, you can encounter historical sites related to the I&M Canal's construction. The Forge: Lemont Quarries, a major adventure park, is also accessible and offers additional recreational activities. While cycling, you might spot unique local features like the Beer Tap Mailbox.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Lemont, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Winter cycling is possible, but trails may be icy or snow-covered.

Yes, you can combine several trails to create longer touring experiences. The I&M Canal State Trail extends for 61.5 miles from Rockdale to LaSalle, offering a multi-day option. The Centennial Trail and Waterfall Glen Trail can also be linked to form extensive loops, such as a 36.5-mile route through diverse Illinois landscapes.

The bluffs overlooking the Des Plaines River, particularly in areas like Black Partridge Woods, provide excellent scenic views. The Palos Trail System, with its glacial moraine topography, also offers elevated sections that rise over 150 feet above the surrounding landscape, providing panoramic vistas.

Lemont is well-equipped for outdoor enthusiasts, with public parking often available at trailheads and within the various forest preserves. Many trail systems, such as the I&M Canal Trail and Palos Trail System, have designated parking areas to facilitate access for cyclists.

While specific public transport connections directly to all trailheads might be limited, some areas around Lemont are served by regional transit options. It's recommended to check local bus schedules or Metra train lines for the closest stops to your desired starting point, especially for trails that pass through or near urban centers.

Yes, the village of Lemont itself offers various cafes and eateries. Additionally, some trail systems, particularly those passing through towns or near recreational hubs like The Forge: Lemont Quarries, may have facilities or nearby establishments where you can find refreshments. Many trailheads also feature water bottle filling stations.