As Illinois foliage changes from green to red and orange to brown this season, the process will provide a perfect backdrop for cyclists to enjoy on their crisp autumn rides.

The cool air and beautiful landscape work together to coax new and experienced riders out for a few months of riding before the winter sets in. Springfield and the surrounding areas offer plenty of trails, groups and events for riders of all ages.

THE TRAILS

Perhaps the most popular path in the city is the scenic Interurban Trail, which traces the former interurban railway corridor. The seven-mile route runs from Wabash and MacArthur across Hazel Dell Road before winding under I-72, along Woodside Road next to Lake Springfield, and into the heart of Chatham. Although longer than other town routes, the trail is mostly straight with few inclines. Plans are to extend Interurban to Auburn in the future. The paved trail is open year-round to skaters and runners, In addition to bicyclists.

Adjacent to Interurban’s north terminal lies Wabash Trail, a three-mile stretch westward from MacArthur and Wabash that crosses both Chatham Road and Veterans Parkway before ending at Robbins Road. Bikers closer to the east side of town may prefer to ride the Lost Bridge Trail, built in 1995. The route begins near the Illinois Department of Transportation building and takes cyclists five miles to Rochester and through the community park. Plans have been proposed to take Lost Bridge to Taylorville and Pana. Riders are sure to enjoy the tree-lined and paved route’s scenery, including Sugar Creek and the Sangamon River.

More experienced riders can combine routes to create extended rides. Various resources such as mapmyride.com offer bike enthusiasts tips for creating local rides. Users on the popular Web site suggest a 60-mile ride from Springfield to Litchfield, a 50-mile ride from Springfield to Petersburg and an 18-mile loop that combines the Wabash and Interurban trails.

The paths are a great way to get outside, enjoy some exercise and see some of our great city — but be safe. Wear a helmet, obey traffic laws, stay on the trails, yield at intersections and pass on the left only after communicating your intentions to do so.

GROUPS AND EVENTS

With so many great places to ride, the capital city is filled with cycling groups and events. The Springfield Bicycle Club (www.spfldcycling.org) hosts rides for bikers of all skill levels and abilities. Rides occur almost every day of the year and at every time of day, and range from “EZ rides” to