The best traffic-free bike rides in Will County

Will County offers a wide selection of car-free touring cycling routes, with over 40 options available. These routes are designed to keep you away from vehicle traffic, providing a peaceful and enjoyable cycling experience.

Yes, Will County is an excellent destination for beginner touring cyclists. More than half of the available no-traffic routes are rated as easy, featuring mostly flat terrain and well-maintained surfaces. A great example is the Spring Creek Greenway and Joliet Loop, which offers a gentle ride through scenic areas.

Will County's no-traffic routes traverse diverse natural landscapes. You'll cycle through restored tallgrass prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Trails like the Old Plank Road Trail and the I&M Canal Trail offer glimpses of the region's natural heritage, including remnants of original tallgrass prairie and historic waterways. The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, for instance, is home to a bison population and offers a unique prairie ecosystem experience.

Yes, several no-traffic routes in Will County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. The Centennial Trail loop from Romeoville is a popular moderate option, while the Whalon Lake Park loop offers an easier, shorter ride around the lake.

Will County's trails are rich in history. The I&M Canal Trail, for example, follows a National Historic Landmark and features educational markers and restored locktender's houses. You can visit the Historic I & M Canal lock along this trail. The Old Plank Road Trail also follows a historic right-of-way, offering insights into the region's past.

Most major trailheads and forest preserves in Will County offer designated parking areas. The Forest Preserve District of Will County manages numerous preserves, many of which serve as convenient access points for the extensive trail network. It's advisable to check the specific preserve or trailhead information for parking details before your ride.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Will County, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather and potential humidity. Winter cycling is possible on paved trails, but some limestone-screened paths may be less suitable depending on snow and ice conditions.

Absolutely. Many of Will County's no-traffic trails are ideal for families due to their flat, paved, or well-maintained crushed limestone surfaces. The Old Plank Road Trail is a popular choice, offering a smooth ride through prairies and suburban areas, perfect for cyclists of all ages.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Will County, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of well-maintained, car-free trails, the peaceful natural settings, and the historical points of interest along routes like the I&M Canal Trail. The variety of landscapes, from prairies to woodlands, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Will County's preserves and trails offer excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Cyclists frequently encounter various bird species, deer, and other small mammals. The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is particularly notable for its bison herd, offering a unique wildlife viewing experience within a restored prairie ecosystem.

Many of Will County's trails pass through or near towns and communities where you can find cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores. The Old Plank Road Trail, for instance, goes through towns like Frankfort and New Lenox, which offer various refreshment options. It's a good idea to plan your route and check for amenities along the way.