Cycling Routes Safe for Families and Beginners

Chicago has over 200 miles of on-street bike lanes and 20 miles of off-street bike paths, making it an ideal city for families and beginners to take up cycling.

The importance of safe cycling routes cannot be overstated, especially during the summer months when more people are likely to be outdoors. With the city's active wellness culture, cycling is a great way to stay healthy and enjoy the scenic views of Chicago's parks and neighborhoods. As the city continues to invest in its bike-friendly infrastructure, it's becoming increasingly easier for people of all ages and skill levels to get involved in cycling.

In Chicago, there are several parks and outdoor fitness spots that offer safe and scenic cycling routes for families and beginners. The 606, a 2.7-mile elevated trail built on a former rail line, runs through the Bucktown, Wicker Park, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park neighborhoods, and features a paved path, landscaping, and public art installations. Another popular option is the Lakefront Trail, an 18.5-mile path that runs along the shores of Lake Michigan, passing through several parks and beaches, including North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach. The Chicago Park District also offers a variety of cycling programs and events, including the annual Bike Chicago festival, which takes place in September and features bike rides, workshops, and exhibits.

According to data from the Chicago Department of Transportation, the number of cyclists on the city's streets has increased by 25% since 2019, with over 20,000 people using the city's bike-share system, Divvy, on a daily basis. The city has also seen a significant decrease in cycling accidents, with a 15% reduction in crashes involving cyclists between 2020 and 2022. As of 2022, the city has invested over $10 million in bike infrastructure, including the installation of new bike lanes and the improvement of existing ones. For example, the cost of a Divvy bike-share membership is $9.95 per month, making it an affordable option for those looking to get started with cycling.

Getting Started

For those looking to get started with cycling in Chicago, there are several resources available. The Chicago Department of Transportation offers a variety of maps and guides, including the Chicago Bike Map, which provides information on bike lanes, bike paths, and other cycling infrastructure. The Active Transportation Alliance, a local non-profit organization, also offers a range of resources and workshops, including bike maintenance classes and cycling safety workshops. Additionally, the city's bike shops, such as Roscoe Village Bikes and On The Route Bicycles, offer bike rentals and sales, as well as repair services and cycling accessories.

In terms of what's next for cycling in Chicago, the city is planning to expand its bike-share system to include more neighborhoods and communities. The Chicago Department of Transportation is also working to improve the city's bike infrastructure, including the installation of new bike lanes and the improvement of existing ones. For example, the city is planning to add a new bike lane on Milwaukee Avenue, which will provide a safe and convenient route for cyclists to travel through the Wicker Park and Bucktown neighborhoods. With its bike-friendly infrastructure and numerous resources available, Chicago is an ideal city for families and beginners to take up cycling and enjoy the many benefits it has to offer.