Just north of Chicago, the countryside around Barrington is a great place to ride. This 25.5-mile loop takes advantage of wide-open roads, scenic countryside, and rolling hills for a route that's a welcome change from the flat riding of most of the Chicago's suburbs.
Though there are several good starting locations, this clockwise loop begins at Barrington High School and spends a few minutes on Barrington's main street before turning south and climbing toward lower-traffic roads on the loop's south side. You'll cut across the Spring Lake Forest Preserve—full of equestrian, hiking, and biking trails—on Penny Road and trace its western edge on the rolling hills of Bateman before cruising east back toward Barrington to close the loop.
Rolling over very quiet roads with little car traffic, this hilly course is only moderately challenging. With gradual climbs, relief changes topping out at less than 150 feet, and few turns on easy-to-follow roads, it's a good choice for riders of all skill levels. To up the ante, consider rounding the loop twice or three times—the hills and scenery will keep you busy, but there are plenty of opportunities to cut it short and head for home, too.
-Mapped by Steve Benni
TO TRAILHEAD: Barrington High School is located at 616 W. Main Street in Barrington, about 38 miles northwest of Chicago.
