Centennial Trail – Centennial Trail loop from Oak Lawn
Centennial Trail – Centennial Trail loop from Oak Lawn
4.9
(1539)
13,251
riders
03:28
81.6km
210m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Sag Valley Forest Preserve
Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
Romeoville Prairie Nature Preserve
Keepataw Reserve
Wood Ridge Forest Preserve
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
15.2 km
Cal-Sag Channel
Lake
18.8 km
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
22.8 km
Sag Quarry West
Lake
27.8 km
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
38.5 km
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
42.0 km
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
52.1 km
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
81.6 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
60.1 km
9.53 km
7.89 km
3.91 km
107 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
60.9 km
20.4 km
308 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Friday 26 June
22°C
16°C
49 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Centennial Trail loop from Oak Lawn is one of those road cycling routes that delivers a rewarding experience without excessive effort. This moderate 50.7-mile (81.6 km) road cycling route, with 676 feet (206 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 3 hours and 27 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a longer, relaxed ride or for those looking to connect to a broader trail network.
What to expect on Centennial Trail – Centennial Trail loop from Oak Lawn
As you pedal along the Centennial Trail, you'll find yourself immersed in a diverse landscape. The route is predominantly paved with asphalt, offering a smooth ride, though be mindful of potential loose gravel at some intersections. You'll cycle through pleasant shaded, treelined sections, open woodlands, and stretches of prairie. The trail closely follows the Des Plaines River and the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, providing scenic waterway views and opportunities for birdwatching. While much of the route is picturesque, be aware that a few miles pass through an industrial, barge docking area, which can be less appealing. Despite being largely flat, some sections near the rivers offer surprising undulations, adding a bit of variety to the ride. This trail is ideal for cyclists seeking a generally easygoing, scenic journey with historical points of interest like the historic swing bridge.
Planning your visit
Accessing the Centennial Trail from Oak Lawn is straightforward, with various access points along the route offering convenient amenities. You'll find parking, restrooms, and even bicycle repair stations and pumps at several locations, making it easy to prepare for your ride. Since the trail is well-maintained and largely paved, it's suitable for cycling through much of the year, though checking local weather conditions is always a good idea.
Trail details
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