ItGetsOldVeryQuick wrote:
I've lived Chicagoland suburbs most of my life. I just worked a few jobs downtown and ran on the Lakefront Trail before work; did for this about 2 weeks. It gets old really fast. The first 3 days I loved it however. It's nothing special, just like Chicago. Overrated x100.
I grew up just outside of the city and have lived in one of the North neighborhoods a few blocks from the trail for the past 8 years, and have to respectfully disagree with you. I love the lakefront trail, and have spent 10,000+ miles since moving nearby.
The fact that I can leave my house and have numerous route options without needing to stop is a huge perk. The Park District does an excellent job maintaining the trail, as well as clearing snow / ice. I actually prefer the trail in the winter months. Much more sparsely populated. I generally make sure any long winter routes go past the water fountain at Diversey and toward Navy Pier in case a bathroom is needed. Don't love all the Saturday morning groups in the summer, but I don't blame them for taking advantage of the resource. The Fleet Feet hydration stations are a nice summer bonus though.
Most of my time is spent on the North side, but I've driven up to 63rd a handful of times for a South side route, and used to bike the full length of the trail. I do my best to avoid the very congested areas in peak tourist times (Ohio Street - museum campus). Sometimes, this is unavoidable, but that's generally if I'm running home from work. Sounds like you're just doing the same portion of the trail, albeit during peak tourist season. Even early AM, that can get old fast.