The best cycling routes in Union County
5.0
(2)
44
riders
7
rides
Touring cycling routes in Union County, Illinois, traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and wilderness areas. The region features varied terrain, including segments that are well-paved and others that may be unpaved, catering to different cycling preferences. Key natural features include areas like the Trail of Tears State Forest and the Cache River State Natural Area, offering scenic backdrops for rides. The routes often incorporate climbs and descents, providing a diverse experience for touring cyclists.
Best touring…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
6
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
8
riders
16.8km
01:00
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
35.0km
02:27
60m
60m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Union County
Tips from the Community
This is the western terminus of the Godwin Trail. It's also a significant waypoint on the River to River Trail, which overlaps the Godwin Trail for much of the latter trail's length.
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This is a beuatiful area in the spring and fall,
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This is a very nice place, well kept and clean. no facilities here. with a view of the forest.
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Karnak is not the end of trail but it is the last point on the trail to camp. The Main Brothers camp ground is pretty simple but it is the only campground at the south end of the trail. The campground is clean and in the main campground there are spots for tents.
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Belknap is another one of the towns that was made by the rail road and died by the rail road. If you need a saw, there is a custom saw builder.
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Vienna is the trail HQ as well as the adjacent city park and rail museum. There is water, flush toilets, 2 museums and a beautiful park all right there. There is a trail into downtown where there is a great little place to eat called Neds Shed. Camping is available just east of the trail at the Shawnee Forest Campground. There is a recently ( 2025 ) completed concrete bike path from the trail east to the fast food restaraunts and then onto the shawnee forest campground. lots of Fast food available, a local diner, and a mexican restaraunt along this eastern extension.
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This is the longest and highest trestle on the trail over 300 feet above the valley below.
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This is a must stop on the trail. This place has cold water, ice cream treats and a place to relax in the old general store & post office of sandburn IL. It runs on the honor system. Very cool place for pics!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Union County?
Touring cycling routes in Union County, Illinois, feature diverse terrain, including rolling hills, dense forests, and wilderness areas. You'll encounter both well-paved segments and unpaved sections, providing a varied experience. Routes often include significant climbs and descents, especially on trails like Milligan Hill – Government Rock loop from Trail of Tears State Forest.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Union County?
Yes, Union County offers routes suitable for various skill levels, including easy options. For instance, the Cape Woods Conservation Area loop from Shawnee Park is an easy route, covering about 16.8 km with minimal elevation gain, making it a good choice for those new to touring cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks along the touring cycling routes?
The routes in Union County traverse significant natural areas. You can expect to cycle through the Trail of Tears State Forest and the Cache River State Natural Area, which offer scenic backdrops. The Tunnel Hill – Vienna Trail Headquarters – Tunnel Hill Trail – The Tunnel loop from Cache River State Natural Area, for example, takes you along a historic trail and through natural areas, including a tunnel.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Union County?
There are over 8 touring cycling routes documented in Union County, Illinois, on komoot. These routes cater to different preferences, ranging from easy to difficult, and cover various distances and elevations.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Union County?
The touring cycling routes in Union County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the challenge of the climbs and descents, and the scenic beauty of the forested and wilderness areas.
Are there any long-distance loop routes for touring cyclists?
Yes, Union County features several long-distance loop routes. The Milligan Hill – Government Rock loop from Trail of Tears State Forest is a challenging 91.4 km route, offering a substantial ride with significant elevation gain through forested terrain.
Can I find routes that are considered challenging for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. Union County offers several difficult routes designed for experienced touring cyclists. The Milligan Hill – Government Rock loop from Bald Knob Wilderness is a prime example, featuring challenging climbs and descents within a wilderness setting over 52.2 km.
Are there any routes that incorporate historic trails or unique features?
Yes, the Tunnel Hill – Vienna Trail Headquarters – Tunnel Hill Trail – The Tunnel loop from Cache River State Natural Area is a notable route that follows a historic trail and includes a unique tunnel feature, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest.
What is the typical duration for completing a touring cycling route in Union County?
The duration varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. For example, an easy route like the Cape Woods Conservation Area loop from Shawnee Park might take around 1 hour, while a difficult, longer route such as the Milligan Hill – Government Rock loop from Trail of Tears State Forest can take nearly 7 hours to complete.
Are there any moderate difficulty routes for touring cyclists looking for a balanced challenge?
Yes, Union County has several moderate routes that offer a good balance of challenge and accessibility. The Bike loop from Cape Girardeau is a moderate 35 km route, providing a substantial ride without the extreme demands of the most difficult trails.
What kind of elevation changes can I expect on the touring cycling routes?
Elevation changes vary across routes. While easy routes like the Cape Woods Conservation Area loop from Shawnee Park have minimal elevation gain (around 31 meters), more challenging routes such as the Milligan Hill – Government Rock loop from Trail of Tears State Forest can feature significant climbs, with over 890 meters of elevation gain.
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