IDOT’s bike route maps mark the route to fun: Let’s ride

Bike paths — The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced the release of the Illinois Official Bike Maps, a free resource showcasing the state’s network of bicycle trails, paths and streets.

Maps for each of IDOT’s nine districts include new features and designs that make them easier to understand, while including more information on noteworthy stops and attractions easily accessible by bike.

Bike riding is in full sprint across the state as July arrived. One highlight for bikers arrives this early fall with “2022 Let’s Ride, Illinois!”

The event takes place from September 9 through 18 with what the “Let’s Ride, Illinois” organization calls casual, family-friendly rides around the state. The “2022 Let’s Ride, Illinois” organizers describe their fall event as a celebration of the freedom and benefits that riding a bike offers.

The associated, community bike rides (no more than 10 miles) are free of charge and open to all. This event encourages adults and children from Rockford to Cairo (and all places in between) to enjoy a casual bike ride with their neighbors and to experience their community by bike.

Learn about the 2021 event at rideillinois.org/lets-ride-illinois-a-success.

Want to help Ride Illinois promote the many benefits of biking for recreation and transportation in your community? If so, you can register a ride today!

Visit https://rideillinois.org/events/lets-ride-illinois-2022/ to join up.

But even before the autumn rides, the free state maps continue to feature full information on local trails and paths, in addition to recommended bicycle routes on local streets and connections to transit. Details on attractions such as campgrounds, parks and other points of interest also are included.

Improved design and markings were incorporated to make the maps easier to read while providing a regional perspective of bicycling resources and interests in a paper format preferred by many bicyclists. The nine unique covers also reflect the diversity of the state’s bicycling community and environment.

To order a map, click here or visit https://idot.click/bikemaps.