The best road cycling routes in Lake County
4.9
(14)
397
riders
44
rides
Road cycling routes in Lake County feature a diverse landscape, offering both flat, paved trails and areas with rolling hills. The region is characterized by an extensive network of multi-use trails that traverse forest preserves, alongside rivers, and past numerous lakes. These routes provide varied terrain for road cyclists, from gentle gradients to more challenging sections.
Best road cycling routes in Lake County
- The most popular road cycling route is Erie Lackawanna and Pennsy Greenway Loop, a 26.0 miles (41.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 53 minutes to complete. This easy route features minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Erie Lackawanna Trail, an easy 21.1 miles (34.0 km) path. This route offers a straightforward ride with gentle ascents.
- Local road cyclists also love the Wolf Lake Trail, a 14.9 miles (24.0 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 6 minutes.
- Road cycling in Lake County is defined by extensive trail networks, forest preserves, and scenic lake views. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 22 easy and 23 moderate road cycling routes.
- The routes in Lake County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from 18 reviews. More than 400 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Lake County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
14
riders
34.0km
01:31
50m
50m
Embark on an easy road cycling adventure along the Erie Lackawanna Trail, a paved rail-trail spanning 21.1 miles (34.0 km). You will experience a gentle ride with only 152 feet (46 metres) of elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. As you pedal, you will transition through diverse scenery, from cool, shaded wooded sections to wide-open prairies and farmlands, offering a refreshing change of pace. Look out for the vibrant wildflowers that bloom in spring and summer, adding splashes of color to your journey. The smooth surface is ideal for all ages and skill levels, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone. This route is a fantastic choice if you are looking for a straightforward and enjoyable cycling experience.
Planning your visit to the Erie Lackawanna Trail is straightforward, as the route is almost entirely paved and maintained for year-round use, even being plowed in winter. You can access the trail from various points, with the Crown Point trailhead being a popular and convenient starting location. While the trail generally offers a smooth ride, be aware that some sections, particularly in the northern part near Hammond, might have slightly rougher pavement. Parking is typically available at the designated trailheads, making it easy to begin your ride. Consider visiting during the spring or summer to fully appreciate the natural beauty and blooming flora along the way.
The Erie Lackawanna Trail stands out for its unique connection to nature, offering a special spur that leads directly to the Ivan Gatlin Nature Preserve. This natural oasis provides an excellent opportunity to spot local wildlife, including majestic bald eagles, deer, and a variety of bird species, adding an extra layer of discovery to your ride. The trail's design as a rail-trail means you will enjoy a mostly flat and consistent grade, following the path of a historic railway. This blend of easy cycling, varied landscapes, and wildlife viewing makes the Erie Lackawanna Trail a notable destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the region.
13
riders
41.9km
01:53
80m
80m
Embark on an easy road cycling journey through northwest Indiana and eastern Illinois with the Erie Lackawanna and Pennsy Greenway Loop. This 26.0-mile (41.9 km) route, featuring a gentle 249-foot (76 metres) elevation gain, offers a smooth ride along former railroad corridors. You can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 53 minutes. As you cycle, you'll pass through diverse landscapes, from the natural beauty of wetlands and prairies near the Ivan Gatlin Nature Preserve spur to the green spaces and residential areas surrounding Centennial Park.
Planning your ride on this loop is straightforward, as both the Erie Lackawanna Trail and the Pennsy Greenway are designed for convenience. You will find amenities like restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas readily available along the Erie Lackawanna Trail. Parking is generally easy to find at various access points along the route, making it simple to begin your adventure. Consider starting your ride in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer people on the path.
This loop offers a unique blend of natural and suburban environments, making it a notable route in the region for its accessibility and varied scenery. The use of former railroad corridors provides a consistently flat and enjoyable surface for road cycling. You can observe local wildlife in the natural areas and appreciate the green spaces integrated within suburban settings. It's an excellent option if you are looking for a relaxed ride that connects different communities and natural preserves.
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4
riders
24.0km
01:06
20m
20m
This easy 14.9-mile road cycling loop around Wolf Lake offers diverse lakefront views and boardwalk sections, taking about 1 hour and 5 minu
2
riders
20.1km
01:00
20m
20m
Cycle the easy 12.5-mile Marquette Greenway, a racebike-friendly route offering views of Calumet Beach and Whihala Beach County Park.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
54.8km
02:24
50m
50m
Cycle the moderate 34.1-mile Erie Lackawanna and Marquette Greenway Loop through diverse landscapes and the Indiana Dunes.
75.6km
03:16
190m
190m
This moderate 47.0-mile road cycling loop combines the Erie Lackawanna Trail with views of Cedar Lake, offering varied scenery and amenities
2
riders
25.8km
01:16
80m
80m
This easy 16.0-mile road cycling loop near Crown Point, Indiana, offers a paved ride with 259 feet of elevation gain in 1 hour and 16 minute
1
riders
63.3km
02:44
60m
60m
Cycle the 39.3-mile Whihala Beach County Park loop, a moderate road cycling route near Griffith, offering scenic views of Lake Michigan and
23.1km
01:09
30m
30m
Cycle 14.3 miles (23.1 km) from Hammond South Shore Train Station to Big Marsh Park, an easy route to Chicago's eco-recreation oasis.
59.2km
02:31
170m
170m
Cycle the moderate 36.8-mile Erie Lackawanna Trail and Cedar Lake Loop, featuring diverse scenery and lake views in Northwest Indiana.
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Popular around Lake County
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Road Cycling Routes around Griffith
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Tips from the Community
Pennsy Greenway is a 14.5-mile rails-to-trails paved path following the former Penn Central Railway. It currently connects Munster, Indiana, to Lansing, Illinois.
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The Lake County Fairgrounds offers a variety of activities, from walking trails to fishing in Fancher Lake. It also has the only covered bridge in Lake County. The Fairgrounds are open 365 days a year with no parking or entry fee.
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Open marsh park with a bit of nature surrounding you while just outside of the city.
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Enjoy this section of the GIT with scenic countryside on the longest paved trail in Illinois.
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Whihala Beach County Park boasts over a mile of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline.
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Cedar Lake is a peaceful, 760-acre lake surrounded by forests and wetlands.
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Escape into serene wilderness at Ivan Gatlin Nature Preserve, overlooking the winding Kankakee River in Illinois.
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Take in spectacular skyline views of Chicago from the scenic Wolf Lake Memorial Park and peaceful trails encircling Wolf Lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Lake County?
Lake County offers a diverse selection of over 45 road cycling routes. These include 22 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride and 23 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Lake County's road cycling routes?
Road cycling in Lake County, particularly in Florida, features unique rolling hills and stunning vistas, including challenging climbs like Sugarloaf Mountain. In Illinois, you'll find extensive networks of trails through forest preserves, alongside rivers, and past numerous lakes, offering varied landscapes from wetlands and sand dunes to prairies and woodlands.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Lake County has 22 easy road cycling routes that are great for beginners and families. For example, the Erie Lackawanna Trail is an easy 21.1-mile path with gentle ascents, offering a straightforward and enjoyable ride.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced cyclists?
While Lake County offers many easy and moderate routes, the Florida region, with its rolling hills and Sugarloaf Mountain, provides opportunities for more challenging climbs. For longer, moderate rides, consider the Cedar Lake and Erie Lackawanna Trail Loop, which covers over 47 miles with notable elevation changes.
Can I find routes that are circular or loop back to the start?
Absolutely. Many routes in Lake County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular option is the Erie Lackawanna and Pennsy Greenway Loop, an easy 26-mile route that offers a convenient circular ride.
What are some scenic highlights or attractions I can see along the routes?
Lake County's routes often pass through diverse natural settings. You can explore the Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail, enjoy views from the Wolf Lake Boardwalk, or cycle along the Oak Savannah Trail. Many routes also offer scenic lake views, such as those near Wolf Lake or Lake Minneola.
Are there any routes accessible by public transport?
Yes, some routes offer good accessibility. For instance, the Hammond South Shore Train Station to Big Marsh Park route starts conveniently near a train station, making it accessible for those using public transport.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Lake County?
The road cycling routes in Lake County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.9 stars from 18 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive trail networks, the beauty of the forest preserves, and the scenic lake views that define the region's riding experience.
What are the best times of year for road cycling in Lake County?
Both Lake Counties offer great cycling. Florida's Lake County is ideal during cooler months, while Illinois' Lake County provides beautiful scenery through spring, summer, and fall. The diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to woodlands, offer varied natural beauty throughout the seasons.
Are there options for cycling in winter?
In Lake County, Illinois, some trails within the Lake County Forest Preserves, like the Des Plaines River Trail, are also open for cross-country skiing, suggesting they can be used for winter cycling when conditions allow. Always check local trail conditions before heading out in winter.
Are there routes with cafes or places to stop for refreshments?
While specific cafe locations aren't detailed for every route, many trails pass through or near towns and communities where you can find places to stop. The extensive trail networks often connect to areas with amenities, and you can plan your route to include stops for refreshments.
What are some longer routes for extended rides?
For longer rides, consider routes that combine multiple trails. The Cedar Lake and Erie Lackawanna Trail Loop is a moderate 47-mile option, while the Erie Lackawanna and Marquette Greenway Loop offers a moderate 34-mile journey, perfect for an extended outing.
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