Great Rides – Rockford

Find fun times rollin’ around Rockford

Our shops are excellent launch pads for cycling adventures across northern Illinois. With so many great options, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why our staff has put together their favorite routes in the area so you can explore without uncertainty.

Riders of all experience levels will enjoy the car-free, scenic experiences that the Prairie Trail and Moraine Hills State Park offer. Road cyclists searching for miles of endless pavement can find just what they're looking for around Roscoe and Sterling. Meanwhile, those chasing shorter paved routes can enjoy the sanctuary of Rock Cut State Park, where, coincidently, mountain bikers can also find miles of singletrack fun. If you're a dedicated cross-country rider, you can revel in some of the best XC riding in the Midwest on the John Muir Hiking-Biking Trails and Emma Carlin Trails. Lastly, gravel grinders can find adventure along the scenic backroads of Seward or by traversing across the crushed limestone of the Great Western Trail.

Beyond our Great Rides collection, we also offer shop group rides on Mondays and Wednesdays leaving from our Mead’s Bike Shop location. If you’re looking for a weekend ride, you can also join us on Saturday mornings for a 35–40-mile ride followed by coffee.

 Ready to begin exploring? Discover your new favorite route below, and be sure to swing by the shop afterward to let us know what you think!