Riding Opportunities
- Steven’s Creek Bikeway: This is a popular paved 11.2-mile out-and-back trail that runs north to south along the west side of Decatur. It starts at Greendell Park and ends at the Rock Springs Conservation Area, which is part of the Macon County Conservation District. It goes through Fairview Park along the way, which connects to Millikin University and a bikepath to downtown.
- Garman Park mountain bike trails: This park is located on the northwestern side of Decatur and includes wooded multi-use trails for hikers, dog walkers, and cyclists. There are 2 main sections of this trail system. The first part is a loop in the south side. The south side loop is easier but still enjoyable. When the trail gets to the bottom of the hill after the switchbacks you can choose to cross the bridge to the north side loop. The north side loop is more technical. Some switchbacks, bridges, and hills. The trail is maintained by volunteers. Join the Facebook group.
- Mt Zion Trail: This walking/biking trail extends from the west side of Mt. Zion at Southbooke Drive to the east side of Mt. Zion at Spitler Woods State Park and to the north along Baltimore Ave. all the way to East Lost Bridge Road. The trail includes shared road trails on Florian Avenue and sidewalks along State Highway 121 and Spitler Park Road. All walkers/bicyclists, strollers, and wheelchairs are welcome on the trail.
- Decatur Area Bicycle Map: A map created by the League of Illinois Bicyclists showing trails and preferred on-road bike routes.
Group Rides
Group rides are a great way to connect with fellow cyclists. These are informal rides of varying lengths. Some are led by a local rider and follow a set route, and some are more open-ended depending on who shows up to ride. Rides are seasonal and change often, so it’s best to check with someone about joining.
- Decatur Bicycle Club: Email (decaturbicycleclub@gmail.com) or join our Facebook group to hear about or to host a local ride.
- Decatur Bicycle Shoppe weekly ride at 6 pm on Thursdays in the summer. About 20 miles with a stop halfway through at a gas station for refreshments.
- Spokes Women: This group is open to female riders of all styles and experience levels. They meet at 6 pm at the dog park in Fairview Park on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays from May to September with a goal of building community, skills, and confidence. Check out their Facebook group.
Local Events
- Amish Country Bicycle Tour: An annual fundraiser ride hosted by the Decatur Bicycle Club held in September in Arthur, Illinois.
- Prairie Pedal: This is an annual bicycle ride fundraiser for the Macon County Conservation Foundation. Held annually on the last Sunday in September.
- Loop the Lake: Hosted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Friends of Lake Shelbyville, this June ride starts from the Lake Shelbyville Visitor Center and has 30, 48, or 65-mile options.
- Tour DeWitt: Hosted by the Clinton Chamber of Commerce in June. Mileage options: 9, 23, 38, 62.