From Chicago's magnificent lakefront to the mountain trails of the Shawnee National Forest, no state has more varied terrain for the cyclist than Illinois. Large, full-detail maps guide you confidently on city streets or prairie back roads, and concise, entertaining trail descriptions make your bicycle adventure come alive. Includes 60 rides for cyclists of all ability levels, tips on where to find water, snacks, lodging, repairs, fascinating notes that help you appreciate the nature and history along the trail, and much more.
Outdoor writer Tim Renken of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch correctly predicted that Illinois Hiking and Backpacking Trails by Walter G. Zyznieuski and George S. Zyznieuski would "become the definitive trail guide for Illinois hikers". Now the brothers Zyznieuski have teamed up again and, following the same procedures that produced their classic hiking guide, have produced the definitive guide for the rapidly growing sport of mountain biking. The Zyznieuskis tell you all you need to know about mountain biking in Illinois. They note that mountain bike trails exist throughout the state, particularly in the Chicago metropolitan area. The forty-eight trails they explored for this book run from three to seventy-eight miles long (the Hennepin Canal State Trail) and range in difficulty from extremely easy to challenging. Along with a map and a complete description of each trail, this illustrated book is packed with practical information. The brothers discuss the various surfaces: dirt, mowed grass, limestone screenings, and old railroad beds. And they advise riders as to what they need to take on the trip, stressing safety necessities such as a helmet. The appendixes discuss the Grand Illinois Trail, provide information on where to order maps, and list mountain bike clubs, trail organizations, International Mountain Bicycle Association rules of the trail, and Illinois bike rules. As they did with Illinois Hiking and Backpacking Trails, Walter and George have explored every trail they mention in this illustrated guide.
From the publishers of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World "A Tourist's Best Friend!" —Chicago Sun-Times "Indispensable" —The New York Times The Top 10 Ways The Unofficial Guide to Chicago Can Help You Have the Perfect Trip: Information that's candid, critical, and totally objective Hotels reviewed and ranked for value and quality—plus secrets for getting the lowest possible rate More than 70 restaurants reviewed and profiled, with listings for dozens more A complete guide to Chicago's sights—museums, architecture, ethnic neighborhoods, and more Complete information on Chicago's lakefront beaches and parks The inside story on shopping—where to get the best for less, on and off the Magnificent Mile All the details on Chicago's nightlife—jazz and blues clubs, dance clubs, concerts, theater, and more The best places to play golf and tennis, ride a bike, go boating, and work out Tips on enjoying Chicago with your kids Advice on how to plan and make the most of your business trip Get the unbiased truth on hundreds of hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more in The Unofficial Guide to Chicago—the resource that helps you save money, save time, and make your trip the best it can be.
The very best Chicagoland spots for running, biking, kayaking, and other outdoor or gym activities are revealed by an ETHS graduate from the class of 1987.
Plunge down steep, rugged singletrack, relax along leisurely lakeside trails, or travel off-road through Virginia’s scenic horse and wine country with Mountain Biking Virginia. Local mountain biker Martín Fernández shows both novice and experienced cyclists how to get out of the gridlock and into the woods. Look inside to find: Detailed ride descriptions GPS coordinates Full-color photos throughout Tips on riding, trip preparation, and bicycle maintenance Accurate directions, difficulty ratings, trail contacts, and more Wherever you ride and whatever your skill level, let Mountain Biking Virginia be your guide to this mountain biking paradise.
In addition to Chicago's numerous cultural and athletic activities, there are many excellent opportunities to explore Mother Nature's bounty. From the dunes of Lake Michigan to the hills and lakes of the northwest to the prairies of the south, hikers will find a trail to their liking in this updated edition of 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: Chicago. Hikes were chosen for their scenic appeal, but they were also chosen for their historic attractions. The extensive key-at-a-glance information makes it a snap to choose a hike based on length, difficulty, and scenery. Helpful lists highlight the best hikes for children, for wildlife viewing, and other categories. Whether a long-time Chicago resident or vacationer to the area, this updated guide will make choosing the right hike easy and enjoyable.
With Explorer’s Guides, expert authors and helpful icons make it easy to locate places of extra value, family-friendly activities, and excellent restaurants and lodgings. Regional and city maps help you get around and What’s Where provides a quick reference on everything from tourist attractions to off-the-beaten-track sites. From the best of Detroit to the best remote angling spots and everyplace in between, this guide delves into the rich variety of Michigan with a focus on outdoor activities, like hiking and paddling, and attractions on and off the beaten track. Discover the best spots for fly-fishing and where to fill up your gas tank (essential info because there are vast stretches in the U.P. where you won’t find any stations) and where to find the best pasties around. (What’s a pasty? Read the book!)
Draws on Canadian exploration, history, geography, anthropology, literature, and philosophy, striking a balance that will delight serious naturalists and armchair historians alike.
* The insider's guide to fun times and great deals in the Windy City * Delivers the scoop on Chicago, a popular weekend destination (16 percent of the U.S. population is within a 300-mile radius) and convention magnet (35,000 shows a year, with 4.4 million attendees) * Offers detailed, candid reviews and ratings of hotels and restaurants, including notable newcomers, all based on personal evaluations * Shows travelers where to find great jazz and blues clubs, shopping bargains, and the best lakefront beaches * Provides information on Millennium Park, with its Frank Gehry designed pavilion, and other new attractions
