The best road cycling routes around Riverwoods
4.9
(32)
851
riders
38
rides
Road cycling routes around Riverwoods are characterized by the village's preserved natural woodland setting and its network of trails. The area features numerous forest preserves and the Des Plaines River, offering diverse landscapes for cyclists. The terrain is generally flat with gentle hills, providing accessible routes through natural areas. This commitment to preserving green spaces ensures a consistent natural backdrop for outdoor activities.
Best road cycling routes around Riverwoods
- The most popular road cycling route is Founders Park – Shelton Park loop from Deerfield, a 33.9 miles (54.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 18 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers a scenic journey through the local landscape.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Boardwalk at Century Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop from Vernon Hills, a moderate 38.8 miles (62.5 km) path. This route features varied scenery, including forest preserves and natural areas.
- Local road cyclists also love the Blue Star Memorial Woods – Shelton Park loop from Deerfield, a 45.8 miles (73.6 km) trail leading through woodlands and local parks, often completed in about 3 hours 9 minutes.
- Road cycling around Riverwoods is defined by preserved woodlands, extensive forest preserves, and paths alongside the Des Plaines River. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in Riverwoods are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 700 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Riverwoods's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.6
(5)
221
riders
54.6km
02:18
180m
180m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
27
riders
59.5km
02:30
180m
180m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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18
riders
107km
04:44
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
52.9km
02:29
220m
220m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
7
riders
20.9km
00:51
40m
40m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette This is one of eight continental Bahá’í temples worldwide and serves as a spiritual center for all of North America. • The temple is open to people of all faiths and is intended as a place for prayer, meditation, and reflection, without sermons or organized worship services. • Inside, sacred texts from various world religions are read or sung without instrumental accompaniment. A domed prayer hall with nine entrances, nine alcoves, and nine fountains—the number nine symbolizing unity and spiritual wholeness. • Detailed concrete cladding in a lacy style, made of Portland cement and quartz. • Religious symbols from various faiths, such as the Christian cross, the Star of David, and the Islamic crescent, are incorporated into the exterior pillars. • Inside the dome, the “Greatest Name” is inscribed in Arabic script, meaning “O Thou Glory of Glories.”
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Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, an Illinois gem, combines history and nature. Amidst remnants of the former military base, discover scenic trails, woodlands, and Lake Michigan's shoreline for a diverse outdoor experience.
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Maple Avenue is a good route to head down to 3rd Street. It crosses the North Shore Channel, isn’t very busy, and also gives you access to Maple Park.
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A small, family-friendly park along the Green Bay Trail that’s a good place to stop and recharge. It has shaded grassy areas—perfect for a quick break.
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This bronze sculpture is a tribute to General Sheridan, a Civil War general. It depicts him on a horse during Battle of Five Forks in April 1865.
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Christ Church has a beautiful courtyard that is open to the public. As this is a place of worship, if you decide to stop to check it out, make sure you are respectful.
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Set on the shores of Lake Michigan this is the second Baha'i Temple ever built. The Baha'i Faith is based in unity of all people therefore everyone is welcome to visit the temple.
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Founders Park is a small, urban park in Glencoe. It has ball fields, picnic tables, a playground and restrooms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Riverwoods?
Riverwoods offers a diverse network of over 35 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate routes, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Riverwoods?
Yes, Riverwoods has several easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. A great option is the Fort Sheridan Cemetery – Robert McClory path loop from Highwood, which is 27.5 km long and features a mostly flat, well-maintained path. The Skokie Valley Bikeway is also known for being well-paved and suitable for all fitness levels.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes in Riverwoods?
The routes in Riverwoods are characterized by the village's commitment to preserving its natural woodland setting. You'll cycle through lush green woodlands, alongside the Des Plaines River, and past numerous forest preserves like MacArthur Woods and Half Day Forest Preserve, offering a consistent natural backdrop.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the Riverwoods area?
Many of the popular road cycling routes in Riverwoods are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve – Founders Park loop from Deerfield, which offers a moderate 59.5 km ride through varied landscapes.
What are some notable natural features or attractions I can see along the routes?
Riverwoods' routes offer access to several natural attractions. You can cycle past the scenic Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds, explore the diverse plant life at MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve, or cross the Des Plaines River bridge at Captain Daniel Wright Woods Preserve.
Are there any routes that follow the Des Plaines River?
Yes, the Des Plaines River Trail is an excellent companion for cyclists, with paths winding alongside the river. Sections like those at Camp Pine Woods Forest Preserve offer wide gravel paths through woodlands and maple forests near the river, connecting to other preserves and featuring scenic ponds.
What is the terrain like for road cycling in Riverwoods?
The terrain in Riverwoods is generally flat with gentle hills, making it accessible for a wide range of cyclists. While most routes are moderate, the elevation changes are manageable, providing enjoyable rides without overly strenuous climbs.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Riverwoods?
The road cycling routes in Riverwoods are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Cyclists often praise the preserved woodlands, the extensive network of forest preserves, and the peaceful paths alongside the Des Plaines River, which create a consistent natural backdrop for their rides.
Are there any specific forest preserves that are particularly good for road cycling?
Several forest preserves are excellent for road cycling. Camp Pine Woods Preserve offers wide gravel paths through beautiful woodlands, while Half Day Forest Preserve features crushed gravel trails around scenic ponds and connects to the Des Plaines River Trail.
Are there any shorter, less busy paved paths for a quick ride?
For a quicker and less busy ride, the Deerfield Road Bike Path is a 2-mile paved multi-use trail near Riverwoods. It offers a convenient option for those looking for a shorter, accessible cycling experience.
What are some of the longer, more challenging road cycling routes in Riverwoods?
For those seeking a longer, moderate challenge, the Blue Star Memorial Woods – Shelton Park loop from Deerfield is a 73.6 km trail leading through woodlands and local parks. Another substantial option is the 62.5 km Boardwalk at Century Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop from Vernon Hills.
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