Great Western Trail – View of Fabyan Windmill loop from Elgin
Great Western Trail – View of Fabyan Windmill loop from Elgin
4.8
(2232)
11,649
riders
Great Western Trail – View of Fabyan Windmill loop from Elgin
05:22
87.8km
290m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
19.3 km
Great Western Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
22.5 km
Timber Ridge Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
34.2 km
St. James Farm Preserve
Nature Reserve
60.6 km
Fox River Trail at Clark Island Recreation Area
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
64.3 km
View of Fabyan Windmill
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
67.2 km
Riverside Park (Buie Park)
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
68.4 km
Fox River Trail (FRT)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
74.2 km
Norton Woods
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
74.6 km
Fox River Bluff Forest Preserve
Nature Reserve
78.1 km
Fox River Trail (railway bridge view)
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
87.8 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
50.9 km
26.0 km
9.65 km
862 m
310 m
194 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
32.7 km
27.4 km
22.2 km
4.55 km
994 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 27 June
24°C
15°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a substantial touring cycling route that blends natural beauty with historical landmarks, the Great Western Trail – View of Fabyan Windmill loop from Elgin is definitely worth your time. This difficult 54.6-mile (87.8 km) route, with 946 feet (288 metres) of elevation gain, offers a rewarding journey that takes approximately 5 hours and 22 minutes to complete. It's an excellent choice for experienced cyclists seeking a longer ride with varied scenery and interesting points of interest along the Great Western Trail Fabyan Windmill loop Elgin cycling routes.
What to expect on Great Western Trail – View of Fabyan Windmill loop from Elgin
The route unfolds as a diverse journey, starting on the Great Western Trail's crushed limestone surface, which is generally flat and level, making for smooth riding. You'll pedal through unincorporated rural townships, natural wetlands, and restored prairies, experiencing the changing Illinois landscape. As you approach the Fabyan Windmill, the trail connects with the picturesque Fox River Trail, offering lovely views along the riverbanks. The Fabyan Forest Preserve is a highlight, home to the historic Fabyan Windmill, the Fabyan Villa Museum, and a serene Japanese Tea Garden, providing perfect Fabyan Windmill cycling landmarks viewpoints. While the overall terrain is accessible, the length of this loop makes it a demanding ride best suited for cyclists comfortable with long distances.
Planning your visit
The Great Western Trail is a former rail line, ensuring gentle grades and a largely smooth surface, suitable for most touring bicycles. Multiple access points and parking options are available along its length, making it convenient to start your ride. The trail's connectivity with other systems like the Fox River Trail allows for extended adventures if you wish to explore further. Given its length, plan for a full day on the saddle, ensuring you carry enough water and snacks, especially during warmer months.
Trail details
- Distance: 54.6 miles (87.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 946 feet (288 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 5 hours and 22 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free