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Routes
Cycling routes
United States
Illinois
Will County

University Park

The best cycling routes around University Park

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Touring cycling routes around University Park, Illinois, traverse a landscape characterized by extensive natural preserves and wooded parklands. The region features a mix of paved trails and paths through diverse habitats, including forests, prairies, savannas, and wetlands. Gentle elevation changes are common, offering accessible routes for various skill levels.

Best touring cycling routes around University Park

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Goodenow Groove Nature Preserve & Plum Valley loop, a 23.7 miles (38.2 km) trail that takes…

Last updated: May 17, 2026

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#1.

Goodenow Groove Nature Preserve & Plum Valley loop

38.2km

02:22

110m

110m

Cycle the moderate 23.7-mile Goodenow Groove Nature Preserve & Plum Valley loop, enjoying scenic views and diverse habitats.

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Moderate

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

5.0

(1)

4

riders

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

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Popular around University Park

Hiking around University Park

Road Cycling Routes around University Park

Tips from the Community

Jamie S.
August 20, 2024, End of Plum Creek Greenway Trail

The Plum Creek Greenway is a great trail in the Goodenow Groove Nature Preserve. This small cul-de-sac is where the trail ends.

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The Thorn Creek Red Paved Trail is a trail within the Thorn Creek Trail System. The Red Trail is an 11.8-mile trail that starts at Lansing Woods and passes through many wooded parks and neighborhoods as it makes its way down to Sauk Trail Lake.

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Paved trail following Thorn Creek through Jurgensen Woods.You'll find side trails as well, with singletrack paths alongside.

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Amy
October 18, 2022, Old Plank Road Trail

This is a 22-mile (35 km) paved trail through Sheboygan County. You ride past lots of wildlife en route. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles and beavers along the river.

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Amy
October 18, 2022, Hickory Creek Forest

This beautiful preserve protects forests, prairie, savanna and wetland habitats. You'll find lots of wildlife here such as woodpeckers. In winter, trails are open for cross-country and skiing. There are also plenty of picnic shelters – great if you get caught out in the rain on your bike trip.

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The plum Creek Nature center offers in a beautiful natural setting the opportunity to learn a lot about ecosystems while being very interactive.

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Plum Valley Preserve protects forest and wetland habitat, and a portion of Plum Creek. Wildlife found at the preserve includes a variety of reptiles and birds.

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The easiest way to explore Greenwood Woods Park is to walk part or all of Thorn Creek Red Paved: a journey into the metropolitan woods!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around University Park?

The touring cycling routes around University Park, Illinois, primarily feature gentle elevation changes and a mix of paved trails and paths. You'll find yourself traversing through diverse natural habitats, including forests, prairies, savannas, and wetlands, offering accessible rides for various skill levels.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, University Park offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Hickory Creek Forest loop from Matteson is an easy 20.9-mile path winding through wooded areas with minimal elevation gain. Another great option is the Thorn Creek Red Paved Trail loop, which is 11.8 miles and suitable for leisurely rides on mostly paved surfaces.

What natural features can I see while cycling in University Park?

The routes in University Park, Illinois, are rich in natural beauty. You can explore areas like the Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve, which protects forests, prairie, savanna, and wetland habitats, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing. The Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve & Plum Valley loop also provides scenic views through diverse natural habitats.

How many touring cycling routes are available in the University Park area?

There are over 7 touring cycling routes available around University Park, Illinois, catering to different preferences and skill levels. The komoot community has explored these paths extensively, with more than 60 touring cyclists using komoot to discover the area.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in University Park?

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in University Park are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Popular options include the Goodenow Groove Nature Preserve & Plum Valley loop, the Hickory Creek Forest loop from Matteson, and the Gun Club Lake loop from Frankfort Square.

What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in University Park?

The touring cycling routes in University Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic views through diverse natural habitats and the well-maintained paved surfaces that make for enjoyable rides.

What is the longest touring cycling route in University Park?

The longest touring cycling route highlighted in the area is the Goodenow Groove Nature Preserve & Plum Valley loop, which spans 23.7 miles (38.2 km) and typically takes about 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete.

What is the shortest touring cycling route available?

For a quicker ride, the Bike loop from Olympia Fields is a great choice. It's an easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a short outing.

Are there any moderate difficulty touring cycling routes in University Park?

Yes, for those looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Goodenow Groove Nature Preserve & Plum Valley loop is classified as a moderate route. It covers 23.7 miles and offers scenic views through diverse natural habitats, with a total elevation gain of about 108 meters.

What are the general characteristics of touring cycling in University Park?

Touring cycling around University Park, Illinois, is defined by its natural preserves, wooded parks, and paved pathways. The network of routes offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides through serene landscapes to moderate challenges with varied scenery.

Can I find routes that are mostly paved for a smooth touring cycling experience?

Absolutely. Many routes in University Park feature paved surfaces, ensuring a smooth touring cycling experience. The Thorn Creek Red Paved Trail, for example, is specifically noted for its paved surfaces, winding through wooded parks and neighborhoods.

Most popular routes around University Park

Hiking around University Park

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