Beginner Ride Highland Park to Lake Bluff (Do not sign up for Intermediate Ride)

THIS IS THE BEGINNER RIDE (shorter & slower). THIS RIDE STOPS FOR LUNCH IN DOWNTOWN LAKE BLUFF!

PLEASE READ THE FULL DESCRIPTION BEFORE SIGNING UP!

This is a no drop ride, HOWEVER, Please make certain you are capable of riding 22 miles at an average pace of 11 mph or better!

As there are two rides posted for this date, please only RSVP to either the beginner or intermediate ride.

This ride is 22 miles (total) round trip. It is mostly a ride on paved trails but we will be on city streets passing through Highland Park, Fort Sheridan, and Lake Bluff.

ROUTE: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49794908

There is a 40 mile intermediate ride (faster riders) riding from the Wilmette Train station to the Panera Bread in Lake Bluff. THE BEGINNER RIDE STOPS FOR LUNCH IN DOWNTOWN LAKE BLUFF! If you wish to continue on to Panera Bread you may do so.

Here is a link to the intermediate ride from Wilmette:

https://www.meetup.com/lets-ride-ages-40-fun-fit-social-riding/events/306362056/

We will pedal our way up through Historic Fort Sheridan and make two stops for "photo-ops" at scenic overlooks of Lake Michigan. We will continue through the neighborhoods of Lake Forest and Lake Bluff including a tour along some of the ravines. We will rest and luncheon in downtown Lake Bluff where there are MANY choices for food and refreshment. A list of establishments is at the end of this post.

We welcome a variety of riders and bike types who can maintain an 11 MPH average ride pace. Depending on the size of the group, we may divide into 2-3 groups based on rider ability.

A HELMET IS MANDATORY for all Let's Ride bicycle rides. Also required, a working and properly maintained bicycle that will allow you to travel the distance and pace you have elected to ride.

As 'situational awareness' is critical to safe bicycling, EARBUDS, EARPHONES and LOUDSPEAKERS will NOT be ALLOWED on this ride.

You should also bring the normal accoutrement (ID with Emergency Contact and Insurance cards, spare inner tube, pump, etc.), proper attire based on the weather forecast, water, sunscreen, sunglasses, money for food and/or beverage, a bicycle lock (to secure your bike) and a good attitude!

Feel free to contact me with any questions. Please make certain you have "email communication turned on" in your meetup account settings.

NOTE: All riders participate and ride at their own risk, meetup.com, Let's Ride and/or its organizers are not responsible for your safety or well being.

Food & Refreshment in Downtown Lake Bluff*:

Bluffington's Cafe
Hansa Coffee and Wine Sellers
Lake Bluff Brewing Company
Maevery Public House
The Other Door Tacqueria
Reverie Petit Cafe

* At the time of this writing these establishments will be open for business when we arrive in downtown Lake Bluff.