Autumn Sun Harvest – Bike Camping to Illinois Beach State Park with Out Our Front Door out of Chicago, IL

Pace: Casual. 12-15mph. Intermediate level.

Trail/Route: Paved road with minimal gravel incorporated.

Lodging: Tent (camping gear not provided). The group will stay at Illinois Beach State Park (IL DNR) located at 1 Lake Front Dr, Zion, IL 60099 (map).

Type: Adult Ride (21+).

Itinerary:

Day 1: 40 miles | Day 2: 55 miles, or 2 miles with return on Metra

Support: Self-supported. No vehicle support.

TRIP DESCRIPTION

Get ready for crisp cool air mornings and the smell of autumn, as the group will tour the forests of Northeastern Illinois.

A seasonal landscape, where vast tracks of color flush red, yellow and autumn bronze, in the valley of the DesPlaines. A regional ride through the woods and prairies that lie beyond Chicago. But before the group gets there… house pumpkins, gourds, and cider fill the north shore communities, as riders will travel north and feast their eyes upon architectural masterpieces.

Learn about the towns, the lay of the land, and the unique ecosystems along the way, as the organizers drop knowledge on top of your noggins at each breakpoint.

The group will ride to and camp on the youngest land in the state at Illinois Beach State Park, discover the Dead River, go on a guided nature walk, and learn what the Chicago area looked like before European settlement. And what better way to end the first day of riding than to relax around a campfire, on a cool night with warm apple cider on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Day two, you can choose to do the 55 mile return along the Desplaines River Trail, or just hop on the Metra train just outside of the campground. Gather some friends, check out the itinerary, and let’s have a good time.

Transfers: We have limitations for ticket transfers but may accommodate in the event certain criteria are met. You may review this updated Transfer Policy flowsheet to determine what next steps you need to take.