Biking and Camping In Northern Illinois

Fall colors are slowly taking over the trees in Chicago area and what's the better place to experience this beautiful sight than along Des Plaines River Trail and at the shore of Lake Michigan. Chicago Bikepackers are inviting you, your family and friends to join us for this awesome weekend getaway.

*** Going north group will follow Des Plaines River Trail and coming back we will take Robert McClory Bike Path and Skokie Valley Bike Path. Des Plaines River Trail is made out of finely grined, hardly packed gravel with few spots of soft mud when raining. Robert McClory Bike Path from Zion to Waukegan is made of finely grined, hard packed gravel. From Waukegan, that bike trail as well as Skokie Valley Path are paved. Any bike is good for this ride.
There are toilets available along the route.
*** Trip will start and finish in Northbrook, IL and we will meet in front of the W.W. Grainger office building. I work there so parking on the property is allowed and free. First, we will ride to River Trail Nature Center from where we will follow Des Plaines River Trail up north.
*** Group will camp in Illinois Beach State Park located in Zion, IL. There are over 200 sites available which can be occupied individually or as a small group. Showers, toilets, electric hook-up and firewood are available. Camping fee:$25/site (can be occupied as single or group to split the cost). Hiking trails, birdwatching, beach, fishing and nature center are within the park. Metra Rail station is located just outside the State Park. 
*** This trip is unsupported so participants will have to carry gear on their bikes or you can have someone deliver it to the campsite. You are responsible for your sleeping gear, food, water, etc. Temperature at night might fall close to freezing point so make sure to pack warm clothes. While enroute, we will be passing by many stores, gas stations and other sources of food. Entire group will stop for lunch on both days.
There is a Zion Cyclery bicycle shop close by in case of bicycle malfunctions.
*** Pace of the ride: recreational
*** Mileage:
Day 1 - 40 miles
Day 2 - 28miles
*** Restaurants are available in town of Zion in case anyone wants to buy dinner or breakfast.

Remember, this is a group ride and no one is left behind in case of emergency but please, be sure to have a plan prepared in case you're not able ride anymore.

Rain or shine, this ride is on!

Remember to join Chicago Bikepackers group on Facebook.

Please post a comment or message me with any additional questions.