The village of New Glarus is a popular tourist destination best known for its Swiss heritage, old world architecture, ethnic dining, small independently owned craft brewery, and outdoor festivals. Swiss-style chalets and flower boxes filled with red geraniums grace the streets of the village and Swiss flags fly next to the American flag at many businesses and homes.

*** Trip will start and finish at the Jane Addams Trailhead located in town of Freeport, IL., just two hours drive from downtown Chicago. Group will ride Jane Addams Trail north towards Wisconsin border. We will travel through natural wetlands, old oak woods, grassland prairies, exposed rock embankments, active farms, and several small communities as well as the Village of Orangeville. After passing Wisconsin border the same path changes name into Badger State Trail expanding all the way to Madison. Coming back we will use Sugar River State Recreational Trail which will takesfrom New Glarus to Badger Trail. This path passes by farmlands, woods, rolling hills, scenic meadows, remnant prairies and glacial topography.
*** Group will camp in New Glarus Woods State Park located 2.4 miles from downtown - http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/ngwoods/.
There are 32 sites available which can be occupied individually or as a small group. Only vaulted toilets are available. Camping fee:$17-25/site (can be occupied as single or group to split the cost). Hiking trails are within the park.
*** Not a camping fan? There are guest houses, motels and hotels available in town. Check out lodging section of https://www.swisstown.com/
*** This trip is unsupported so participants will have to carry gear on their bikes. You are responsible for your sleeping gear, food, water, bike parts, 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 towns and villages where you'll be able to find stores, gas stations and other sources of food. Entire group will stop for lunch on both days. Various diners are also located in New Glarus. 
Bike shops are located along the trail in case of equipment malfunctions.
*** Pace of the ride: recreational
*** Mileage:
Day 1 (to New Glarus) - 44 miles 
Day 2 (from New Glarus) - 40 miles
*** On our way to New Glarus group will ride through a Stewart Tunnel and light in there is limited so make sure to bring headlamp or bike light. 
*** Fees:
$5/day is a Badger Trail usage fee.
Trailhead parking lot is free.
*** I'm offering a share ride from Schaumburg to Freeport and back which will leave at 7:30am (limit 5 participants). 
Cost: $30/roundtrip + free parking in Schaumburg.

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!

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