Welcome spring!

I led the Sanctuary Bicycle Group on its first long ride of the season. Wonderful turnout today, 16 riders, which we attributed to pent-up demand. Previous rides were canceled because of the horrible weather we've been experiencing here in the Chicago area. This was the first sunny day in more than a month!

We headed south from downtown Naperville along the DuPage River Trail to Knoch Knolls Park. There, we took the newly extended trail west to 95th Street. A mile or two on quiet suburban side streets later, we entered Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve.

After the six-mile Springbrook Prairie loop, we rode south on Southern DuPage County Regional Trail, along 75th Street, cutting a bit short along Modaff Road north to Bailey, and back to downtown Naperville.

Apré Bike, delightful conversation and companionship at Hizeman's Bar and Grill. Highly recommend the pork & pineapple tacos.

Distance: 21 miles, with a mix of paved trail, limestone, and side street.

Add 10 miles for me, because I rode from the starting point in downtown Naperville and back.

I'm seriously wheezy tonight — overdid it too early in the season.

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