The best cycling routes around Lombard
4.6
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1,134
riders
112
rides
Touring cycling around Lombard offers a network of routes primarily characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain. The area features established greenways, forest preserves, and paths alongside natural features like Salt Creek and Herrick Lake. These routes provide access to open spaces and wooded areas, suitable for various cycling preferences. The landscape includes a mix of developed parklands and natural habitats, with minimal elevation changes.
Best touring cycling routes around Lombard
- The most popular touring cycling route is Blanchard Hill – Timber Ridge Trail loop from Villa Park, a 22.0 miles (35.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 15 minutes to complete. This moderate route features gentle hills and passes through varied landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Great Western Trail – W.W. Stevens Park loop from Villa Park, a moderate 28.1 miles (45.1 km) path. This route follows a well-maintained trail system, offering a consistent surface for touring.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Fabyan Windmill – View of Fabyan Windmill loop from Lombard, a 44.0 miles (70.9 km) trail leading through open areas and past local landmarks, often completed in about 4 hours 18 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Lombard is defined by greenways, forest preserves, and paths alongside waterways. The network offers options for different ability levels, including many easy and moderate routes.
- The routes in Lombard are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 140 reviews. Nearly 1000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lombard's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
5.0
(6)
51
riders
35.7km
02:16
100m
100m
The W.W. Stevens Park – Timber Ridge Trail loop offers a refreshing touring cycling experience through forest preserves and restored prairie landscapes. You'll pedal past the historic Kline Creek Farm and the tranquil Timber Lake, enjoying a journey that feels far removed from urban bustle. This moderate 22.2-mile (35.7 km) route, with its 334 feet (102 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it a rewarding ride for those seeking natural beauty.
Starting from W.W. Stevens Park, this loop is predominantly paved, though you might encounter some crushed limestone or unpaved sections, so choose your bike accordingly. There are no specific warnings about seasonal closures or permits, making it generally accessible. For the best experience, consider cycling during daylight hours to fully appreciate the diverse scenery.
What makes this route stand out is its seamless integration into the broader network of multi-use trails, including the Illinois Prairie Path and the Great Western Trail. This connectivity means minimal on-road riding, enhancing the natural feel of your journey. It's a fantastic option for family friendly cycling trails in Villa Park, providing a well-maintained and enjoyable way to explore the region's green spaces.
4.8
(4)
32
riders
45.1km
02:50
130m
130m
The Great Western Trail – W.W. Stevens Park loop from Villa Park offers a pleasant and accessible touring cycling experience, primarily on crushed limestone. You'll start in suburban Villa Park, gradually transitioning to more natural, tree-lined sections as you head west, with the scenery becoming notably wilder past Swift Road in Glen Ellyn. This moderate 28.1 miles (45.1 km) route, with only 430 feet (131 metres) of elevation gain, is a great option for a relaxed ride that takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is generally flat and easy to navigate. While there are fewer road crossings than some other local trails, be aware that some intersections can be busy and require careful crossing. You'll find amenities and places to grab a bite in towns like Villa Park, Lombard, and Carol Stream, which are conveniently located along or near the path.
This route is built on an abandoned railway corridor, which explains its mostly flat profile and makes it ideal for touring bikes. It's also highly notable for its connectivity, linking with the Illinois Prairie Path's Elgin Branch, allowing you to easily extend your ride into larger loops like the "Great Western Prairie Triangle" for a more extensive exploration of DuPage County.
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5.0
(3)
16
riders
70.8km
04:18
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
14
riders
28.8km
01:47
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
49.8km
02:58
120m
120m
Embark on a scenic touring cycling adventure from Villa Park to the expansive Busse Lake, a journey that blends natural beauty with a good workout. You'll traverse the Salt Creek Trail, which offers a mix of paved and crushed limestone paths through wooded sections, before connecting to the fully paved Busse Woods Trail. This route provides picturesque views of Busse Lake and its surrounding 3,700 acres of natural space, including a unique 17-acre enclosed elk pasture where you might spot a resident herd.
This moderate 30.9-mile (49.8 km) ride, with a gentle 406 feet (124 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 58 minutes to complete. While the terrain is mostly flat and suitable for all fitness levels, the distance makes it a rewarding challenge for those looking to cover some ground. The Busse Woods Trail is largely traffic-free thanks to overpass bridges, making for a continuous and enjoyable ride.
The Busse Woods area is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including mature hardwood forests, open meadows, marshlands, and wetlands, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing beyond the elk. The Salt Creek Trail provides extensive connections, allowing for even longer rides if you wish to explore further. Consider visiting in the fall when the foliage around Busse Lake transforms into a spectacular display of reds, oranges, and yellows.
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Tips from the Community
This small lake has a path encircling it and is easily accessed via Fullerton Avenue. It connected to other lakes and nature preserves via the Salt Creek Greenway.
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The Illinois Prairie Path is a popular urban rail trail. This section runs from Geneva to Western Chicago. The path is fully paved and used by runners, walkers, and cyclists.
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Memorial Park is located just north of downtown Wheaton. It was constructed in 1921 and is the city's oldest park. In 2020, it got a renovation, and now the state-of-the-art bandshell, a Veterans Memorial, and the Lions Terrace are in tip-top shape. It is lively all summer with events like the Summer Entertainment Series, Cream of Wheaton, Shakespeare in the Park, and HOPtober Fest. The facilities are clean, and this little park is a great place to stop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lombard?
There are over 100 touring cycling routes around Lombard, offering a wide range of options for cyclists of all abilities. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.7 stars.
What are the typical terrain and difficulty levels for touring cycling in Lombard?
Touring cycling around Lombard is primarily characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain. The area features established greenways, forest preserves, and paths alongside natural features. Most routes are classified as easy (over 60 routes) or moderate (around 40 routes), with a few more challenging options available.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Lombard?
Yes, many routes in Lombard are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the Blanchard Hill – Timber Ridge Trail loop from Villa Park, or the Fabyan Windmill – View of Fabyan Windmill loop from Lombard, which takes you through open areas and past local landmarks.
What natural features can I expect to see along the cycling routes?
The routes in Lombard often follow paths alongside natural features like Salt Creek and Herrick Lake. You'll encounter open spaces, wooded areas, and developed parklands. Notable natural areas include Herrick Lake and Meacham Grove Forest Preserve.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, routes often pass by interesting landmarks and points of interest. For instance, the Fabyan Windmill – View of Fabyan Windmill loop from Lombard takes you past the historic Fabyan Windmill. Other notable areas include the Danada Forest Preserve and the Salt Creek Greenway Red - Paved Trail.
Are the touring cycling routes in Lombard suitable for families?
Many of the routes in Lombard are suitable for families, especially the easy and moderate trails with their flat to gently rolling terrain. The established greenways and forest preserves provide safe and enjoyable environments for family rides. The Salt Creek Greenway – Green Lake loop from Lombard is an easy option.
Can I bring my dog on the cycling trails in Lombard?
While specific regulations vary by forest preserve and park district, many trails in the Lombard area are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always best to check the specific rules for the trail or park you plan to visit beforehand.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Lombard?
The best time for touring cycling in Lombard is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and pleasant. The routes are well-maintained, making them accessible for most of the year, though winter cycling options might be limited by snow and ice.
Is parking available at the trailheads for touring cyclists?
Yes, many of the forest preserves and park areas that host touring cycling routes in Lombard offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific trailhead information for parking availability before your ride.
How can I access the cycling routes in Lombard using public transport?
Public transport access to cycling routes in Lombard varies. Some routes may be accessible via local bus services or Metra train stations, particularly those near urban centers. For specific routes, it's recommended to check local public transport maps and schedules to plan your journey.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Lombard?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the quiet atmosphere of the forest preserves, and the accessibility of routes for various skill levels. Cyclists appreciate the consistent surface for touring and the scenic views of natural habitats.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for more ambitious riders?
Yes, for those looking for longer rides, routes like the Herrick Lake – Danada Forest Preserve loop from Von Maur cover over 50 km, offering extended exploration through the region's varied landscapes and preserves.
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