Approximately 50 miles, all told and worth seeing every bit. See the Walk Score of Robert McClory Bike Path, Waukegan IL. So nothing to worry about it, but as you keep going and get further down then you run back into the more scenic and tree filled areas until you get to Durand Avenue in Racine and I would recommend you keep going as just down the road from it you follow the signs and it brings you to Root River which is very nice to ride through and great for photography. When that ended I rode a few streets in the area that ultimately took me back to Lewis, at which point I headed back to Kenosha. Located in Winthrop Harbor, Illinois. The Robert McClory Bike Trail may be known by many names, but it's soul has always remained the same-a straight, flat bike trail that traverses through Lake County, IL from Highland Park on the south to the Wisconsin/Illinois State line on the north and all the eastern Lake County municipalities in between. There were lots of cops around, so I made it the rest of the way without incident, but the experience was unnerving. The Highwood Metra station can be reached by traveling North on Waukegan Ave. One of many sculptures along the bike path commissioned by the City of Highland Park. Actually, there is so much glass, you wonder how the heck it all got there. It's not best to ride through that area during the evening/dusk hours so try to go through it during the morning/afternoon hours, but still should be cautious. Decent enough trail and one of the longer ones we have in the greater Chicago area. Only thing I wish is it had a marker when you cross the state line. A possible parking location just north of the north trailhead. 176 West 7.5 miles to Mundelein, IL. This is where you go past the Great Lakes Naval Base. Unfortunately I chose a road that did not intersect the trail (Wadsworth Rd, I think) and instead I could painfully see the trail as it passed overhead as a bike bridge. If you're interested in seeing different communites it's great, but the North Chicago and Waukegan portions are just a limestone screenings trail that goes streight with zero turns and over 20 street crossings. If it had been raining prior to me using it, it would be unusable, unless you had Cyclo-Cross or balloon tires. I also ran into rusted metal. The best part to ride through Illinois is the Des Plaines trail it's extremely nice and photogenic and one of the nicest, relaxing, enjoyable, trails you'll ever ride on and it's well taken care of through out the year and it connects with other multiple trails. As a single, female rider along the entirety of this path just yesterday (6/7/10), I ran into more safety issues than I care to admit while riding through the North Chicago/Waukegan/Zion section. A new pedestrian bridge soon could be added to a portion of the Robert McClory Bike Path that runs through Lake Bluff. only about 3 miles of it is. The asbestos inspection report identifies a sealant product with asbestos content Not too many stops and goes. The entirety of the north leg is pretty much a dump, aside from the small bit of Zion as you head into Kenosha. A possible parking location just south of the north trailhead. There was a turn that crossed the road and went underneath the main road, and then you start the limestone screening trail. There are a few times this happens and the best advice I can give is to consult your GPS regularly. … My return leg (from downtown Kenosha back home to Chicago) was equally as terrifying on this leg of the trail. Can be reached from all directions by vehicle or bike. There are overpasses over all busy streets south of North Chicago. I just moved to the neighborhood, desperately seeking a trail to ride as I come from the subdivision within riding distance to DesPlaines River Trail. A Metra commuter railway connects Chicago to Kenosha, Wisconsin, on Union Pacific Railroad tracks that parallel much of the trail. Like the once user said, the las portion is straight as an arrow with a crazy amount of street crossings. Thankfully, it's a little bit easier to avoid the broken beer bottles due to their color. 2 stars because I was given hope for a better experience later in the year. Parking at the Metra stations generally requires a fee. In 1997, the trail was named after a Republican congressman who served the area for 20 years. I found a doggy play ground for my dog along the way as well. Robert McClory Bike Path May 2, 2016 June 2, 2016 Lisa 1 Comment As the final Illinois component of the length of trail from Chicago to Kenosha, the Robert McClory Bike Path picks up close to the end of the Green Bay Trail and jogs north closely following the Metra UP-N line to Greak Lakes, where the trail turns slightly and remains west of the Metra off of the lakeshore by […] Some locals may also call in the Green Bay trail, which it connects to on the south. The astounding natural beauty of Highland Park plays a large role in many residents’ preference to live here. It's too bad that Lake County doesn't pave this since the road riding can be a bit frightening around there. The Robert McClory Bike Path runs the length of Lake County, knitting together a string of communities on the north shore of Chicago all the way to the Wisconsin border. The McClory path started when crossing the state line. Metra station with parking and small building. I find this path within minutes from my house and when I got about 5 blocks before the path in waukegan I started noticing boarded up, run down houses, and the such. Now for the bad... After the Russel Road Bridge it's still decent, but after you cross the next road after the bridge that is when you shoud start planning ahead and be more alert and cautious as you start to get further into Illinois and things start to get creepy and there are some strange characters walking around that I wouldn't trust and would just plain avoid so just keep on riding don't even think about hesitating to stop just keep going until you get to a more pleasent area which may take a while to get to. this trail I give a thumbs and will use it frequently. ", "Trail begins just north of downtown Highland Park at Vine Avenue and the railroad tracks. While the state and counties want to remind you at every cross street what the rules are (no equestrian or motor vehicles), there's little helpful signage to warn you of upcoming detours or divergent routes (that's government for you). I can hold up to 6 bikes and will be just a phone call away during your ride. Some street riding in Highwood, then continouous paved bike trail along Union Pacific RR tracks from Fort Sheridan through Lake Forest and Lake Bluff to a junction with the trail west to Libertyville, then on north through North Chicago, Waukegan and Zion and into Wisconsin. There's very little incline, though you will encounter a slight amount of uphill biking around the Waukegan area, heading southbound, though nothing steep. A lot of people are saying that the north part of this trail is unsafe but that is not true. Bring a patch kit with you. Robert McClory Bike Path. Partly limestone, partly paved. Trail is not completely continuous in northern Highland Park; follow signs. The bike path crosses W. Ninth St. just around the corner; the state line is 1 mile north. Building Demolition-Robert McClory Bike Path ROW Description: Project includes the demolition of a 16,000sq ft steel commercial building located on Grand Avenue at the Robert McClory Bikepath in Waukegan, Illinois. Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. there is all sorts of trees and wildflowers along the way to look at. Intersection with the bike trail. Proceed with caution, folks. Wadsworth Road to Close from May 26 - June 9 LCDOT is closing Wadsworth Road underneath the Robert McClory Bike Path overpass to all traffic beginning Tuesday, May 26 … I've never heard of anyone being mugged or assaulted while biking, walking, running or jogging through North Chicago and Waukegan. An avid outdoorsman and athlete, the late U.S. Rep. Robert McClory (R-Ill.) now has a bike path named for him. See the Walk Score of Robert McClory Bike Path (Formerly North Shore Bike Path), Highland Park IL. To my chagrin, on my way south I was warned by a fellow biker that the north Waukegan section of the trail was full of policemen who were out to catch a robber. It’s named after a former Republican congressman and passes a few parks and forest preserves. I felt safe the whole way, even in the Waukegan area. In 0.4 mile turn right onto W. Broadway Ave. Look for parking on the left side of the road. Des Plaines River Trail: State Line to Gurnee, Illinois Beach State Park: North Unit Trail, Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum, Jean McGraw Memorial Nature Preseve Trail. I felt I had no choice but to continue, as the Metra trains weren't running for another two hours, so I did. Ravinia Park is a festival grounds featuring a variety of musical acts throughout the summer. The Robert McClory Bike Path runs the length of Lake County, knitting together a string of communities on the north shore of Chicago all the way to the Wisconsin border. You'll want a decent, light weight bike with sturdy tires that guarantee you some traction, as you will encounter some loose, grainy gravel better suited to a hybrid than a road bike, especially in some parts of Cook and Lake County, though a bit less than half of the trail is smoothly paved. Thankfully, there had not been any reports of violence, only theft. Check the Metra site at the link below for more info. Check or FAQs for more common login questions. Robert McClory Bike Path is separated from IL 173 with an Overpass. About. If you want to ride this trail start in Kenosha it's very nice and relaxing very friendly people as there always saying hello as you ride past and it's also been black topped so it's nice and smooth and you can ride on it anytime you like except when it snows I don't recommend that as snow ruins the bike. It also has a park for those who need to burn off more energy. I really had no problems at all. So you can relax and enjoy your I would either ride through there as quickly as you can while still being careful while riding or if possible take any detours and scenic routes to avoid any problems or uneasyness even though you shouldn't have to think about any of that while on bike trails and that whole area should be improved somehow so it's better for everyone to ride through and to be more relaxing and enjoyable, but I don't see that happening anytime soon. Hi All- planning a overnight camping trip up in Wisconsin (from Chicago) and we're planning on taking the standard GBT/McClory path up there. This was a little scary - I'm a 26-year-old female, and I was in what looked like a neighborhood not in the greatest shape. Robert McClory Path - Tire Question. Another unique feature is the number of community gardens that appear mile after mile, adding a charming country touch to the urban atmosphere. "The trail actually starts in Lake Bluff and goes until the state line. You’ll then have to take St. Johns Avenue (there are sidewalks) 0.7 mile to Vine Avenue, turn left, and go one block to a ramp to return to the trail. Happy safe riding everyone! Next to trail leading east to Lyons Woods, you will find a bench. Follow Vine Ave. east to the ramp which connects you back to the bike path. There is no parking here, but parking can be found south at 5th Street or north at 116th Street and 104th Street. ", "This is a flat, rails-to-trails conversion that follows UP rail tracks on the south, the old North Shore right of way further north. Once you cross east across Sheridan, the path will lead you down the hill and then West under Sheridan. I was stopped by a cop who asked me if I'd seen the guy they were looking for. Flat. Crossing Sheridan Road, you’ll return to the old railroad right-of-way that runs through a wooded corridor next to Metra through Lake Forest and Lake Bluff (the junction for the east-west North Shore Bike Path is here) for the next 7.2 miles to North Chicago. Robert Mcclory Bike Path is a cross-country skiing, mountain biking, rail-trails, road biking, trail running, walking adventure located in or near Salem Boulevard Park, IL. Trail map of the North Shore Bike Path from Robert McClory Bike Path at Scranton Ave. (Lake Bluff) to Brice Ave. (Mundelein). The bike trail alternates between tree lined urban throughways, quaint downtowns, and neighborhoods on the south end to more rural alternating prairies and tree sheltered trails on the north end. robert mcclory bike path. comment and a few honks. Check the link in the resources section for information about upcoming performances. The direct route follows St. John's Ave. which parallels the train tracks north until it reconnects with the bike path at Highland Park High School. I gave up after a mile, which was much further than I saw anyone else ride. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, bird watching, and road biking and is best used from March until October. Eventually, Lewis Ave increases speed to 45 mph and drivers don't seem to hesitate to pass at full speed with a biker in the same lane. I ride it at least once a season to see if anything is improving. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, bird watching, and road biking and is best used from March until October. The trailhead can be reached easily by vehicle or bike from any direction. Go 0.2 mile, turn left onto St. Johns Avenue, and go another 0.2 mile to return to the Robert McClory Bike Path adjacent to Walker Avenue. The trail is also referred to as the Green Bay Bike Trail. 1 review of Robert McClory Bike Path "I use this path to run/walk/ride several times a week. McClory Trail Pollinator Garden. Props to Kenosha folks who have a great paved and shaded trail just over the border from Illinois. The Robert McClory Bike Path (a.k.a. find trail maps, reviews, photos & driving directions on traillink.com I went back east when I saw a sign for a library. Im an experienced trail rider and ill start off with the good first. You need to cross over and then under Sheridan Road to connect the the northern part of the trail. View map of nearby restaurants, parks, and schools. Apparently he approaches nicely and when the ladies would stop, he would take their money. So enter at your own risk when you get down to that part of trail and goodluck. It ceased operations in 1963 after ridership declined. Steep sections. Alan C. June 10, 2017. The Robert McClory Bike Path (a renamed section of the North Shore Bike Path) follows the right-of-way of the old Chicago, North Shore, and Milwaukee Railroad (Interurban electric line) through Lake County for about 15 miles from Lake Bluff to the Wisconsin border, where it continues north and is called the Kenosha County Trail for the next 19 miles. I didn't find the trail itself to be that terrible, since sometimes urban areas have to have a lot of intersections. I'm on a road bike with 23mm tires, so my experience wasn't that great. In 1997, the trail was named after a Republican congressman who served the area for 20 years. I prefer the section of this trail in kenosha county that is just north of this trail. Metra stop with small building and parking. One criticism I have is the lack of helpful signage. I looked at past reviews and I was apprehensive about riding this trail on my ride from Chicago to Milwaukee on Tuesday afternoon, July 16. I was worried when reading about this trail that it would involve city streets but the trail actually runs parallel to the streets. 9th St. Winthrop Harbor, Illinois 60096. Along the bike path, most of the towers are gone, but the concrete foundations are still visible as far north as Kenosha. After riding west from the trail I turned south on Lewis Avenue. It’s hemmed in by residential and commercial districts, though it does pass some parks and forest preserves. As the final Illinois component of the length of trail from Chicago to Kenosha, the Robert McClory Bike Path picks up close to the end of the Green Bay Trail and jogs north closely following the Metra UP-N line to Greak Lakes, where the trail turns slightly and remains west of the Metra off of the lakeshore by about a mile. I'm have road tires/slicks on my bike and I'm wondering if the path is in decent condition? As the signs along the path indicate, you'll want to cross Waukegan Ave. and head north to Bloom, east to St. John's Ave., and north to the paved path adjacent to Walker Ave where it goes around Fort Sheridan. Closer to the middle of town Lewis Ave reduces lanes to one each way, making the pothole situation a little trickier and locals don't seem to be used to sharing with cyclists, as evidenced by the, "Hey, get on the sidewalk!" Get a FREE Rail Trails Guidebook when you become a Member with Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Not the most interesting, but as you get closer to the state line, it gets interesting. Did you know that the Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) is more than just roads? I see myself riding this trail over and over again and look forward to completing the entire Kenosha trail. The trail also connects to the North Shore Bike Path which runs parallel to route 176 and is a great east/west connection to the Des Plaines River Trail and a number of other great bike trails. I thought that I might add in a new review, seeing how nobody has reviewed this trail in two years. Layered clothing is the best way to regulate your temperature during changing weather conditions. The trail parallels the Metra regional railway which runs North-South through Lake County. The Green Bay Trail) is a 25 mile trail connecting many of the communities along Lake Michigan in the northern suburbs of Chicago. Once the Green Bay Trail reaches Saint Johns Avenue and Sheridan Road, it turns into the Robert McClory Bike Path. AVOID WAUKEGAN SECTIONS of the trail. It's not very nice at all or comforting, but there are a few decent small areas where you can relax for a little while. As suggested by the other rider, on the way north I turned off the trail at MLK Drive in the North Chicago/Waukegan southern section and rode west to Lewis Ave. All seemed okay at first, as Lewis Ave is a two-lane in each direction so cars could move into the inner lane and I had plenty of space. Just south of the bridge is an access path down to the road. These are limestone, cross streets every block or so, and have LOTS OF BROKEN GLASS in the limestone last time I tried it. (3) Look for opportunities to ride on paved streets that closely parallel the bike trail, in Zion and Waukegan. Metra stop with small building and parking which sits across from the Great Lakes Naval Station. In the south, the trail connects with the Green Bay Trail at the county line, while in the north it meets the Kenosha County Bike Trail at the state line. I road my bike from the 1800 block of Glenn Drive to 33rd Street in Zion and found it to be a tiring yet exhilarating experience. I never made it to the path, I turned around. ", TrailLink is a free service provided by Rails-to-Trails conservancy, We're a non-profit all about helping you enjoy the outdoors, Green Bay Trail at Laurel Ave. and St. Johns Ave./Sheridan Rd. I ride the Robert McClory Bike Path every week during daytime, on weekdays and weekends, from Highland Park to Kenosha and back. No obstacles. Some uneven terrain. Your donation will help us to continue connecting more people to trails around the country. Pick up trail again in Zion. A possible parking location just north of the north trailhead. I went all the way up to the Kenosha Trail, which was beautifully paved, and did a few miles on that before turning back around. Reflective and brightly colored clothing make you more visible to motorists, pedestrians, and other bikers. The path from Zion up to Kenosha was fine, even good, but Lewis Ave was troubling enough that I knew I would stay on the trail when I returned south, no matter how poor the trail conditions. Well maintained, mostly gravely, pretty busy for a Saturday. The trouble with Lewis Ave is that it is littered with large cracks and potholes that make it less than pleasant to ride on, even with the additional lane. I was extremely upset because as hard as I tried to avoid all the glass everywhere, I still managed to get a good sized shard lodged in my tire/tube, which required me to stop once I got to a better section of the trail (Highland Park.) Robert McClory Bike Trail is a 25.4 mile moderately trafficked point-to-point trail located near Great Lakes, Illinois that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail also uses low-traffic city streets. This paved and screened trail connects to three other major trails-Green Bay Trail on the south, Kenosha County Bike Trail on the north, and the East-West North Shore trail in Lake Bluff. Cold drinks and restrooms are available during operating hours. Like another reviewer, I also had multiple problems with broken liquor and beer bottles on the trail. The bike path re-connects with the railway north of Fort Sheridan. The Metra station offers parking and a small building for shelter. While Practicing Social Distancing in Lake Bluff and goes until the state and... Kept on leash Jul 28, 2018, 7:00 AM: this 8 hour is... The low traffic neighborhood streets turning right onto N. Lewis Ave. go 1 mile north my dog the... 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