Old Plank Road, Cal-Sag & Centennial Trail Loop

The full loop is about 111.5 kilometers (69 miles) long. For a race bike, it typically takes around 4.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop.

This loop is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty for road cyclists. While the terrain is mostly flat, the significant distance and varied surface conditions, especially on the Old Plank Road Trail, contribute to its moderate rating.

While the trails themselves are largely flat and paved, the full loop is quite long (69 miles). Beginners might find the distance challenging. However, you can easily ride shorter sections of the Old Plank Road Trail, Centennial Trail, or Cal-Sag Trail for an easier experience.

The loop is entirely paved, but surface quality varies. The Centennial Trail is known for its very nice paving and good condition. However, sections of the Old Plank Road Trail are in serious need of resurfacing, with numerous cracks that can make for a bumpy ride. Be prepared for some rougher patches, especially if you're on a road bike.

There are numerous parking areas along each of the individual trails that make up this loop. For example, the Old Plank Road Trail passes through several towns like Frankfort and Matteson with access points. The Cal-Sag Trail has parking, including east of the 86th Avenue area. The Centennial Trail also offers various access points. Check local forest preserve district websites for specific trailhead parking locations.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on these trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

Spring and fall are ideal for cycling this loop, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for heat and humidity. The 'cathedral of trees' sections on the Old Plank Road Trail provide good shade during warmer months.

Yes, there are a few things to note. The Old Plank Road Trail has 31 road crossings, many of which are 'blind crossings' that can interrupt your momentum and require extra caution. Also, some segments of the Cal-Sag Trail are still incomplete, which might require minor detours to maintain a seamless loop experience.

The loop offers a diverse range of scenery. You'll ride through shaded 'cathedrals of trees' and past towns on the Old Plank Road Trail. The Cal-Sag Trail follows the Cal-Sag Channel and Calumet River, with natural areas, forest preserves like Glenwood Woods and Hickory Creek Forest, and views of Saganashkee Slough. The Centennial Trail features prairies, woods, and views along the Des Plaines River and Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal.

No, you do not need a permit or have to pay an entrance fee to access and cycle on the Old Plank Road, Cal-Sag, or Centennial Trails. They are publicly accessible multi-use trails.

Yes, this loop is part of a larger interconnected trail system. The Old Plank Road Trail connects to the Hickory Creek Bikeway and the Thorn Creek Trail system, and is part of the Grand Illinois Trail and American Discovery Trail. The Cal-Sag Trail connects directly with the Centennial Trail and the John Husar I&M Canal Trail. The Centennial Trail also connects to the I&M Canal Trail.