wellness
River North marks cycling routes safe for families and beginners
New paths along the Chicago River and through local parks give first-time riders and parents with kids clear options away from heavy traffic.
How we reported this
River North residents gained access to two newly striped family cycling routes on July 1 that connect the riverfront to nearby parks without crossing major vehicle corridors.
The routes come as more households seek outdoor activity close to home during the peak summer months when school schedules free up afternoons and weekends.
One path starts at the east end of the Kinzie Street Bridge and follows the North Branch of the Chicago River south for two miles before reaching the River North Greenway entrance at West Chicago Avenue. The second route begins at the same bridge and heads north along the river to the Ogden Park loop, a flat 1.8-mile circuit with rest benches every half mile.
Marked paths and support programs
The River North Park District added painted lane dividers and directional signs on both stretches last month. Families can also join the district’s free Saturday morning beginner rides that meet at the Merchandise Mart plaza at 9 a.m. and cover the full Kinzie-to-Ogden loop in under an hour.
City data released last week showed a 28 percent rise in family bike permit applications through June compared with the same period in 2025. Rental bikes at the River North Greenway kiosk cost $12 for two hours, with helmets included for riders under 12.
Getting started this week
Parents planning a first ride should download the district’s route map from its website and check the daily water level report before heading out, since the river path can close briefly after heavy rain. Helmets remain required on all marked segments, and the nearest repair station sits inside the park district office at 400 North Michigan Avenue.