The best cycling routes around Hickory Hills
4.7
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428
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14
rides
Touring cycling routes around Hickory Hills, Illinois, are primarily found within the expansive Palos Preserves, a 15,000-acre area characterized by mature forests, diverse ecosystems, and river valleys. The region offers a network of unpaved and paved trails, including sections along the Des Plaines River Valley and the Cal-Sag Channel. Elevation changes are generally modest, with routes featuring gentle inclines and declines suitable for various cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Hickory Hills
- The most popular touring cycling route is…
Last updated: October 1, 2026
4.5
(2)
10
riders
33.8km
02:04
100m
100m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(11)
60
riders
33.1km
02:06
100m
100m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
19
riders
52.7km
03:04
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
11
riders
13.0km
00:47
10m
10m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
12
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Columbia Woods is a forest preserve located near Willow Springs, Illinois, at the western edge of the Cook County Forest Preserves. It offers access to the Chicago Portage National Historic Site and serves as a key entry point to the Des Plaines River Trail and the I&M Canal Trail, making it a popular starting spot for long bike rides or hikes. The preserve features a boat launch for paddlers on the Des Plaines River, as well as shaded picnic areas and quiet wooded paths. While it’s more low-key than other preserves, its location and river access make it a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
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The Calumet-Saganashkee Channel, more commonly known as the Cal-Sag Channel, is a 16-mile-long shipping canal is Cook County. It was constructed in the early 1900s and played an important role in inland shipping.
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This section of the Centennial Trail takes you from Lemont to Willow Springs and passes through Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve. The path passes through a treelined, green landscape and is a very relaxing place to ride.
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The east shore of Saganashkee Slough in the Palos Forest Preserves offers a popular walking, biking, and fishing spot. Visitors can spot all sorts of birds, including loons, herons, and grebes. The 377-acre lake has trails as well as places to sit and relax.
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The Cal-Sag Trail, or Calumet-Sag Trail, is a paved multi-use path spanning 16.2 miles. It connects the John Husar I&M Canal Trail in Lemont to the Major Taylor Trail in Riverdale. Users hug the Cal-Sag Channel, getting nice waterway views and shade from the surrounding forests. Future plans aim to extend the trail to 26 m
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Great microbrewery and pizza on the trail in Willow Springs
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The Saganashkee Slough is an artificial lake and part of the Cal-Sag Canal valley. This wetland had been drained, then, between 1948 and 1949, a lake was created through the construction of dams and levees.
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The John Husar I & M Canal Trail has a fascinating history, connecting Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River long ago. Now, it's a wonderful place to visit and ride along. With lots of trees and beautiful views of the canal, it's a perfect spot for a scenic and enjoyable ride.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Hickory Hills?
Touring cycling routes around Hickory Hills offer a range of difficulties. You'll find 6 easy routes, 4 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging routes, ensuring options for various skill levels. The terrain generally features modest elevation changes, suitable for a comfortable touring experience.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Hickory Hills?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The region includes 6 easy routes, many of which are within the Palos Preserves, offering gentle inclines and scenic paths suitable for families. An example of an easy route is Cal-Sag Trail – Cal-Sag Channel loop from Site A.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Absolutely. Many touring cycling routes in Hickory Hills are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular circular routes include the Saganashkee Slough – Cal-Sag Channel loop from Worth and the Centennial Trail – Centennial Trail loop from Willow Springs.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling trails in the Hickory Hills area?
For trails within the expansive Palos Preserves, Maple Lake is a known mountain bike staging area and offers parking. Many other trailheads throughout the preserves also provide designated parking facilities.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Hickory Hills?
The fall season is particularly beautiful for touring cycling in Hickory Hills, especially within areas like Forty Acre Woods, where the changing colors of the trees offer a stunning scenic experience. Spring and summer also provide pleasant conditions for exploring the diverse ecosystems.
Are touring cycling routes in Hickory Hills dog-friendly?
Many trails within the Palos Preserves and other forest preserve areas around Hickory Hills are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out.
What natural attractions or viewpoints can I see along the touring cycling routes?
The routes often pass by beautiful natural features. You can expect to see highlights such as Turtlehead Lake, Saganashkee Slough, and McClaughry Springs Woods. The Cal-Sag Trail and Centennial Trail also offer scenic views.
Is public transport available to access touring cycling trails in Hickory Hills?
While the primary access to many trails, especially within the Palos Preserves, is typically by car, some areas might be accessible via regional bus services. It's recommended to check local public transport routes and schedules for specific trailheads.
Are there cafes or pubs near the touring cycling trails?
The Palos Preserves and surrounding areas are primarily natural spaces. However, the towns bordering the preserves, such as Worth and Willow Springs, offer various dining options, including cafes and pubs, which can be found a short distance from the trails.
How long are the touring cycling routes in Hickory Hills?
The touring cycling routes vary in length. For instance, the Bike loop from Willow Springs is about 8.1 miles (13 km), while the Centennial Trail – Centennial Trail loop from Willow Springs extends to 23.1 miles (37.2 km).
What kind of landscapes can I expect on touring cycling routes in Hickory Hills?
The touring cycling routes in Hickory Hills are characterized by expansive preserves, mature forests, diverse ecosystems, and river valleys. You'll cycle along sections of the Des Plaines River Valley and the Cal-Sag Channel, experiencing a mix of natural beauty.
What do other cyclists say about touring in Hickory Hills?
The touring cycling routes in Hickory Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained trails, the peaceful natural surroundings, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
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