Biking

 

Throughout Will County, the Forest Preserve District has provided paved and limestone screened trails that are ideal for biking. Whether you are seeking a leisurely ride or a serious workout, a trail is available and it is likely close to home.

Don't Be a Jerk: Trail edition

When out on a Forest Preserve District trail, don't be "that" guy or girl who is ruining the experience for others.

Biking regulations

All cyclists must follow federal and state bicycle laws.

Bicycles may only be utilized on designated paths, trails or roadways. Bicycles may not be used on natural surface trails.

While biking, please be aware of other trail users and exercise proper judgment for the safety of everyone.

Travel at safe speeds and proceed at a slower pace when the trails are in heavy use. Faster traffic should pass on the left, politely warning others of their approach from behind. Do not block the trail. Use no more than half of the trail width when in a group and be sure to watch and listen for other trail users.

Electric-assist bicycles are allowed within the preserves as long as they meet certain requirements:

  • It must be Class 1 (no throttle).
  • It must be low speed (an electric motor of less than 750 watts).
  • It must have a maximum speed of less than 20 miles per hour.
  • It must have functional pedals.
  • The rider must be at least 16 years of age.

Power-driven mobility devices are allowed on Forest Preserve trails for qualified individuals, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. These devices include wheelchairs, mobility scooters and electronic assistive mobility devices (EPAMDs). Specifically excluded are riding lawn mowers, golf carts and gasoline-powered devices. View more information about accessibility or request accommodations.

Additional regulations apply. For more information, download the District's General Use Ordinance No. 124 or call 815-727-8700.

Biking programs

Biking programs are offered seasonally at select preserves. Visit the Event Calendar for program listings.

(Photo by Anthony Schalk)

Group of people biking on a paved trail lined with grass and trees.
(Photo by Anthony Schalk)
Person riding bike on a paved trail with other bikers and vegetation in the background.
(Photo by Anthony Schalk)
People biking on paved trail lined with grass and trees.
(Photo by Glenn P. Knoblock)
Person riding a bike on a paved trail with another biker in the background.
(Photo by Glenn P. Knoblock)
People biking on paved trail with vegetation in the background.
(Photo by Anthony Schalk)
Person biking on a limestone trail with vegetation in the background.
(Photo by Chad Merda)
Two people biking on a paved trail lined by grass and vegetation.
(Photo by Glenn P. Knoblock)
Two people biking on a paved trail with vegetation and trees in the background.
(Photo by Anthony Schalk)
Person biking on a paved trail with trees in the background.
(Photo by Anthony Schalk)
Two people biking on a paved trail with trees in the background.
(Photo by Anthony Schalk)

Frequently asked questions

Electric-assist bicycles are allowed within the preserves as long as they meet certain requirements. The bikes must:

  • Be low speed (an electric motor of less than 750 watts).
  • Have a maximum speed of less than 20 miles per hour.
  • Have functional pedals.
  • Have a rider who is 16 years of age or older.

Per the District's General Use Ordinance, persons riding a bicycle must conform to federal and state bicycle laws.

Call 911 in an emergency. Non-emergency safety concerns should be directed to the Laraway Communications Center dispatch at 815-727-6191 (option 9) to have a Forest Preserve District officer dispatched. Non-emergency and past concerns can also be reported to the District's police department by calling 815-727-8700 or through the online form.