The northern section of the trail starts off at Hollywood Ave. near Foster Beach, and runs south all the way to 71st St. near Rainbow Beach Park in South Chicago. Promontory Point: Just northeast of Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry, this popular spot for outdoor weddings offers one of the most Instagram-worthy shots of the city from the south. The Lakefront Trail spans much of Chicago. South Shore Cultural Center: If you're not too sweaty, duck into this landmark building at the path's end, where depending on the time of day and year you might find a boot camp, ballet class, or symphony performance–along with free Wi-Fi, thanks to a city partnership with Google. Though the famed plaster "White City" is lost to history, remnants remain, including a smaller replica of Daniel Chester French's Statue of the Republic called the "Golden Lady" and the former Fine Arts Palace, now Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry (and around mile 15.5/2.5). Sara Hall: Second-Fastest American of All Time, Man Runs Across Country After Losing His Job, Sarmistha Sen Went for a Run. This route has it all: gorgeous views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, urban beaches, marinas, and beautiful parks, passing by some of the city’s famous cultural institutions. The middle section parallels the heart of downtown and the Magnificent Mile, and includes sights such as Navy Pier, Grant Park, the Museum Campus, and Soldier Field. There are dozens of parking lots and trail connections. For more info about hot spots in Chicago, see our Runner's Tour of Chicago. Maybe I can map … South of Museum Campus is the Convention Center area, while the final four miles feature great views and access to the University of Chicago and Hyde Park. The maps below displays a portion of the Chicago Lakefront Trail, starting at Osterman Beach and traveling 18 miles south to the South Shore Cultural Center. Jackson Park Outer Harbor: History lesson: this 542-acre park played host to the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. entire length of the "lakefront trail" and back again....from 7100 south to 5600 North - 36.9 mi, +418 ft. Bike ride in Favorite Sections At the 1.5 mile mark, runners can take advantage of Cricket Hill, the only real elevation change on the trail outside of overpasses (of which there are several). Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps. We have divided the Lakefront Trail into Three Sections. Soon, you'll be nearly alone, with the exception of three figures of Daphne crafted from discarded cars by sculptor Dessa Kirk. Montrose Harbor: Turn off to the east here and you'll wind up on a gravel path on the other side of a golf course and bird sanctuary, with only fishermen as company. EVER. But make it to the beach, and you're rewarded with the perfect place for a post-run dip on a hot day. Here’s why we love the Chicago Lakefront Trail, and some things you might not have known about it. The City of Chicago is currently in Phase Four: "Gradually Resume." The path here is concrete and the trail can be crowded on a nice day. Get a view of Belmont Harbor at mile 3, and the Lincoln Park Zoo at mile 5. Bikers can enjoy the Lakefront bike path or the Major Taylor Trail. We have divided the Lakefront Trail into Three Sections. North. I only have one more shot to get this right. The trail has a low profile beginning. See a full map of the Lakefront Path here. I found that the trail starts at Ardmore Avenue in the Rogers Park Neighborhood. The Lakefront Trail is one of Chicago’s best attractions. Parking Lot: Easily accessible from Lake Shore Drive and rarely crowded, this lot offers the perfect place to park while exploring the south end of the path. Foster Beach: Use the restrooms at the beach house right on the beach–or take the underpass just south of Foster to the Margate Park Fieldhouse for toilets relatively free of sand. The path runs parallel to Lake Shore Drive on the city’s eastern edge, and boasts stellar views of the city, abundant restrooms and water fountains, and markers every half-mile for 18 miles. We'd love your suggestions on great places to run. Which Marathon Training Plan Is Right for You? The Chicago Lakefront Trail (LFT) is a 18.5-mile-long (29.8 km) partial shared use path for walking, jogging, skateboarding, and cycling, located along the western shore of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois.The trail passes through and connects Chicago's four major lakefront parks along with various beaches and recreational amenities. Daniel Burnham lived 100 years before Instagram. Chicago — known for its art, architecture, and food — is also a top running city. Southern end: South Shore Cultural Center, Accessible from downtown - see trail info for tunnels crossing Shore Drive. Mile markers are calculated for southbound travel. CARA will measure the path using USATF course certification equipment and guidelines. Make sure you don't bump into a Segway while you snap yours; tour groups frequent the museum campus, as this part of the path is known. The trail runs along Lake Shore Drive. She Never Came Back, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. And for those who crave the occasional hill, there is, according to public-radio host and Runner’s World columnist Peter Sagal, “a certain glacial flatness, which can get a little tiring.” Still, says Sagal, “On one of those frozen mornings when the insanely cold water is splashing up and there’s ice on the lakefront and you see one other guy or girl and you wave to them—that’s great. Northerly Island: Escape into seclusion on even the busiest of summer days by splitting off the path just south of the Shedd Aquarium. Now that the effort to separate cyclists from pedestrians is officially complete, here’s what to expect when you walk, run, or ride. Business? Trail map of the Chicago Lakefront Trail from E. 71st. Northern end L station: Bryn Mawr, Hundreds of Cities and Destinations Worldwide, Runs grouped by unique and special categories. In town for the marathon? This 18 mile paved path winds along beautiful Lake Michigan. WE PROMISE Not to SPAM YOU OR SELL YOUR EMAIL. Admission is free. Running in Chicago is defined by the city’s setting on Lake Michigan and the 18-mile long Lakefront Trail. Safely on the other side, you can find indoor bathrooms (and big cats) in the Kovler Lion House. Chicago, IL 60660 View Website Explore Chicago’s beautiful lakefront trail. How we test gear. North Avenue Bridge/Beach: If you've been sticking the west side of Lake Shore Drive, you can cross over to the east here–and run right into Chicago's see-and-be-seen beach. Note that access from Lakeshore Dr. is at specific intersections – underground tunnels in some cases. It runs north and south parallel and to the east of Lake Shore Drive. South. Copyright 2020 Great Runs. What Central Park is to New York, the Lakefront Path is to Chicago—the signature, tourist-friendly place to both get exercise and show off the best of the city. As I mentioned above the most common training ground for Chicago runners is along the Lakefront Trail, and 18-mile paved trail with with plenty of grassy parks and the occasional stretch of sandy beach. Middle. The Lakefront Trail is a testament to the planners of Chicago, with over 18 miles of multi-use path that run through park space along the lake. Having not been to Chicago in many years, this trip was an opportunity to really take in as much of the City as possible. Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. Chess Pavilion: If you need a break, you might find a willing opponent for a game of chess in the cement pavilion that sits in the center. And, you can be entered into a contest to win a new pair of running shoes! Regardless of the time of year, it is an amazing experience with incredible views. This route has it all: gorgeous views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, urban beaches, marinas, and beautiful parks, passing by some of the city’s famous cultural institutions. Nike Helps Resurface Lakefront, Donates Mile Markers October 23, 2010 at 9:28 am Filed Under: Active Transportation Alliance , Chicago Lakefront , Chicago Park District , … A win for Chicago. Here’s What’s New. The 18-mile Lakefront Trail is one of the most spectacular urban runs in the country. Lakeshore Bike: Rent a bike by the hour, get a tune-up on your existing cycle, or just pick up a tube or lock from the bike part vending machine–it's open 24 hours and takes credit cards. Odds are high it was taken here. Oak Street Beach: Proceed with caution around the curve just to the north–high winds commonly cause waves to splash over the narrow cement path here. The Chicago Lakefront Trail is a paradise for active people. The company donated money to refurbish the trail at no taxpayer expense. 47th Street Hill: The slight incline here marks one of the few in the city–and possibly ranks as one of its longest. Training week #7 got off to a fun start as I got to run with Declan.We were both doing our final long run in the Hanson Brooks training plan, which is 16 miles.We met at the northern terminus of the Lakefront Trail on Sunday morning for a run that was to take us all the way to and around Navy Pier and back. Shedd Aquarium/The Field Museum: Seen a panoramic pic of Chicago's skyline from the south? Many City services have adjusted hours or locations and may require health screens prior to entering their physical. The maps below displays a portion of the Chicago Lakefront Trail, starting at Osterman Beach and traveling 18 miles south to the South Shore Cultural Center. Part of the trail … It is all part of the Chicago Lakefront Trail, an 18.5-mile-long path located along the western shore of Lake Michigan that is used for walking, jogging, cycling, scootering and skateboarding. And the best part is it’s FREE. ideo Highlights: Lakeshore Path, Chicago River, Downtown (21 min. Run a portion of the Chicago Lakefront Trail, starting at Osterman Beach and traveling 18 miles south to the South Shore Cultural Center. The Chicago Lakefront Trail is aptly named; it spans 19 miles along the shore of Lake Michigan, going right through downtown Chicago and passing many cultural and tourist attractions throughout the city. I looked at a map and figured I just needed to turn right from my hotel and go straight and I'd hit the Lakefront in less than a mile. Just north of the pavilion is the third of four hydration stations. St. and S. South Shore Dr. (US 41) to W. Ardmore Ave. and N. Sheridan Road (Chicago). Trough: Stay to the inner (west side, away from the lake) gravel path for access to the water trough, the one source of outdoor hydration open 12 months of the year (thanks to the Chicago Area Runners Association). If the famed city planner had acquired an account, he might have posted a photo of the Lake Michigan shoreline with the hashtags #foreveropen and #freeandclear to promote his vision of a noncommercial, open-access lakefront. Swoosh Along the Lakefront | NBC Chicago While not a priority for the Park District, there are new mile markers, provided by Nike. (Also, find another Fleet Feet Sports hydration station at the Beach House.). find trail maps, reviews, photos & driving directions on traillink.com Chicagoans can also thank social media for forging a superstrong local running community: On Twitter, #chiLFT reveals weather conditions, closures, and incidents on the trail, and #runCHI curates everything from training recaps to notices for runner-friendly yoga classes; on Facebook, the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) runs promotions with partner races; apps like Fountain Finder (iOS, free) make it easy to locate water stops; and BibRave.com, launched here in 2013, allows users to review races in a Yelp-like format. An impressive 18-mile-long stretch, Chicago’s Lakefront Trail is a paved path that extends from Ardmore Street on the North Side to 71st Street on the South Side. Sure, the place isn’t all sweet views and good vibes: There are the endless winter months that can bring subzero temps, gale-force winds, piles of snow, and sheets of ice. 1. If you lived in northern California and it was nice all the time, you wouldn’t have that.”. You can walk, run, bike, skateboard, play basketball, drink from the many water fountains and enjoy the beaches, bathrooms, grilling area, & view of Lake Michigan in a safe and beautiful environment (with mile markers every half mile … It is all part of the Chicago Lakefront Trail, an 18.5-mile-long path located along the western shore of Lake Michigan that is used for walking, jogging, cycling, scootering and skateboarding. That was kind of true, only I hit dead ends, twice. Learn about new routes & locations, destinations, seasonal suggestions, and special events. From north to south, the trail passes through and connects Chicago's four major lakefront parks--Lincoln Park, Grant Park, Burnham Park and Jackson Park, from the Edgewater Beach neighborhood to South Shore. From north to south, the trail passes through and connects Chicago's four major lakefront parks--Lincoln Park, Grant Park, Burnham Park and Jackson Park, from the Edgewater Beach neighborhood to South Shore. Until recently, bicycling Chicago’s 18-mile Lakefront Trail could be a full-contact sport. Learn more about the 18-mile Lakefront Trail, and the trail separation project. You can walk it, skate it, bike it or use Divvy bikes along the way. From north to south it’s 16 miles. Video Highlights: Lakeshore Path, Chicago River, Downtown (21 min.). Buckingham Fountain: The iconic Buckingham Fountain sits almost at exactly the halfway point (with actual drinking fountains around it, as well). There are ongoing improvements to make separate paths for bicycles & pedestrians. 10 Tips for Running Your Best Chicago Marathon, How Amazing Runners Finished in the Windy City. This section is less crowded, a little more bucolic, and features a gravel running path. Lincoln Park Zoo: Take care when crossing Fullerton Parkway to enter the path here–though signs in the crosswalk instruct cars to wait for pedestrians, some don't seem to think this applies to runners. Runners in Chicago have Burnham to thank for miles of continuous trail that is, without question, the best part of running in the Windy City. The pathway is well traveled by both locals and tourists alike, taking advantage of the nearly traffic-free route and the amazing lakefront scenery. McCormick Place campus: Pick up your marathon participant packet at the Chicago Marathon Health & Fitness Expo here in the North Building in the fall; in the winter, head to the southeast corner for potty breaks. Navigating umbrella-toting families and scantily clad volleyball players can help prepare you for the crowded start of a big-city marathon like Chicago, Freeman notes. All Rights Reserved. Chicago’s Lakefront Trail stretches 18.5 miles, connecting the North Side to the South Side. Measurement: During construciton, mileage markers may begin to become inaccurate. and here’s why it’s a must-do on any Chicago itinerary! The trail has mile markers, ... On Monday morning, I set out for 9 miles. This 18-mile multi-use trail extends from Hollywood Avenue on the north side to 71st Street at the South Shore Nature Sanctuary. Hydration Station: One of four free-for-all water and Gatorade stops, open Saturday mornings during marathon training season; sponsored by Fleet Feet Sports and staffed by kind volunteers. Popular with cyclists and joggers, the 18-mile course runs alongside the shores of Lake Michigan and is a fantastic way to experience some of the Windy City’s highlights.I cycled it on my recent trip (twice, no less!) Runner's World participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Conventional marathon training wisdom says that when training for a marathon, a run of around 20 miles should be done about a month before the race. Montrose Beach is one park along the Lakefront Trail that … Pleasure? One of Chicago’s most beautiful assets, its expansive shoreline, is on display in its full glory from the Lakefront Trail. I'm thinking about doing my last mile on the Chicago River North Branch trail, so I won't have to worry about traffic lights and intersections, although it does have some downhill/uphill portions under the bridges. spaces. Lakefront trail is my favorite thing about Chicago. Whatever the reason, here’s where to find kindred spirits eating, drinking, texting, and—best of all—running on one of the coolest urban trails in the country. And the one of the best ways my wife and I found was to bike along the Lakefront Trail. ), Up to 18 miles, but several sections and loop options. The north portion is approximately 9 miles. The Chicago Marathon long run obvious choice for me was the 18 mile long Lakefront Trail along Lake Michigan.. Choose from the Lakefront Trail, or the many neighborhood parks have straight-away or oval tracks. Please call ahead or visit any department's website to get additional details, or visit chicago.gov/covid-19. The 18-mile Lakefront Trail is one of the most spectacular urban runs in the country. Navy Pier: Tera Moody favors this shipping dock and military-outpost-turned-tourist-destination for easy winter runs, and for good reason–indoor restrooms and water fountains beckon on sub-zero days. Cricket Hill: Summit the path's steepest–if short–incline by the lake, and you'll be rewarded with views of recreational soccer players on the fields below. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, 10 Epic Marathons You’ll Want to Consider in 2021, Why You Should Watch the 2020 London Marathon, The Best Gear for Virtual Fall Marathon Training, Rest Assured Rincon Fans—the 2 Is Just as Great, The Elite 1 Is No Longer Brooks’s Fastest Shoe, Hit These Standards to Qualify for Major Marathons, What to Know About Boston Qualifying Times. For a true hilly course, you'll need to drive far out of the city: 39 miles northwest to Algonquin or 17 miles southwest to Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien. This also marks the unofficial dividing line beween the north and south legs of the park, Sagal says–head north to people-watch, south if you want quiet and gorgeous vistas. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/illinois/chicago-lakefront Once the Lakefront Trail Separation Project is complete, the Chicago Park District has agreed to have CARA complete the official measurement of the path. And be sure to check out the entire Run This City collection. Osterman Beach: Start at the official beginning of the path on this well-maintained public beach–or end here with a cold drink at nearby Nacho Mama's Burrito Bar. The Lakefront Trail Renovation Is Done. There are mile markers along the entire path. 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