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Weaving through five city wards, the rail-trail provides a transportation option for more than 200,000 residents, improving access to workplaces, schools, grocery stores and other businesses.Ĭool connections: To the south, the Major Taylor Trail connects to the developing Cal-Sag Trail, which will one day span 26 miles. On the trail’s southern end, Whistler Woods offers a birding hotspot and views of the Little Calumet River.īut the trail serves as more than a recreational outlet: between its forested hubs, the route thrives in its urban setting with connections to commuter rail lines, public transit and major street corridors. Tucked into this picturesque setting are limestone aqueducts and stairways constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. In the warmer months, visitors can wander through the park’s native grasses and wildflowers, relax under the shady canopy of oak and hickory trees, or gather with family and friends in the picnic groves. Built on some of the city’s highest land, the steep slopes of Dan Ryan Woods on the northern end of the trail offer sledding and snowboarding opportunities in the winter. Taylor’s legacy continues through the establishment of dozens of Major Taylor Cycling Clubs around the country, including the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Chicago, which works to enhance the trail and promote its use in partnership with the Major Taylor Trail Keepers and Friends of the Major Taylor Trail, two local volunteer groups, and the Chicago Park District, which maintains it.īookending the route, two Cook County forest preserves offer delightful escapes into nature from the surrounding bustle of the city. Although born and raised in Indianapolis, Chicago is where he spent his final years. Along its 7.6-mile stretch, colorful murals line the paved pathway, sharing the inspirational life and achievements of the trail’s namesake, Marshall “Major” Taylor, a Black cyclist who was one of the most celebrated bicycle racers of the late 19th century, setting several world records and winning numerous races all over the world. Major Taylor Trail (Illinois)Ĭoursing through Chicago’s southwestern neighborhoods, the Major Taylor Trail has transformed a corridor that was once desolate, overgrown and neglected into a wellspring of community pride, and a draw for both residents and tourists. We’ll unveil the winner in the August 2020 edition of eNews. Public voting has ended for the 2020 Rail-Trail Hall of Fame nominees.