Off-road trails easily accessable without a car

I just got a new mountain bike, and I'm looking for any off-road trails that I can get to easily from the city either by riding or by Metra or other public transportation. I don't need the world's most challenging singletrack, although some challenge would be good, but mostly I just want a 2 hour ride in the woods on an unpaved trail. Any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks.

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by RigWheels on April 29, 2010 at 5:47pm

Riding out to palos straight out has been on my mind as well, unfortunately, the route is less than ideal and for me it is a 25 mile ride. Not too far to ride, but it would zap me for sure and I like being fresh to start. I came to Chicago from Philly and I have to say that Philly takes the cake. Fairmont park runs through the northwest of the city and most of my daily commute was singletrack. It is a real shame that Chicago doesn't have more accessible trails for those carless souls.

I do highly recommend a trip to the garden at western and belmont. It is a blast on whatever you ride (maybe not your fixed gear track bike with the shorty bars) BMX, Dirt Jumper, Full Squish, XC, even a magna hardtail would be a blast on the pump track. And I agree, it will give you great skills, like keeping momentum through berms and over varied terrain. Treat yourself to a nice day of going big and having fun. Plus you will meet some new folks to ride with and everyone who has worked on this park is super nice.