Good route in or close to the Loop - Chicago, Il?

[AbsoluteZ3RO]

I will be in Chicago in early July. I am looking for suggestions on a good 20 mile (or a bit more) route to ride while in town. I will be staying right in the city, so I was thinking maybe something along the lake.

Any suggestions? Is there a good site that showcases routes around the city that will keep me away from cars?

[AbsoluteZ3RO]

Just found this map

http://www.cityofchicago.org/Transportation/bikemap/usemaps/9-O.html

I wonder how far that lakefront trail will actually go north and south from the loop. I don't see that info. Anyone know?

[melonyogloo]

LSD path go south till 67th street and north till Hollywood. it is about 22 miles out and back. the path south of downtown is less crowded and to the north is too crowded to ride during the weekend.

[Scummer]

You can take the lake shore path way beyond 63rd street. If you feel like it you can follow South Shore drive until Calumet Park. Just stay on the street and don't go through Rainbow Park around 81st street.

I commute on the lake shore path to Indiana from downtown Chicago along that path.

[bibliobob]

In terms of addresses (or streets), every 800 equals a mile. So, in theory, riding on the lakefront path from Madison St. (0 North/South) and riding to 63rd St. (6300 South) is about 8 miles. Of course, with curves, it's a bit longer. Depending on where you're leaving from (and the wind speed), riding down to 63rd and back can be a nice little workout.

And, yes, the north lakefront path is excessively crowded on the weekends. You have to ride pretty early to keep it safe and fast.

[Kenal0]

Here is a few pics of the lakefront from a few years ago. Nice on the weekdays. Stay away on the weekend.
Kenal0

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=228552&highlight=lakefront