In the summer, Chicago’s Lakefront Trail is a social hub full of activities: people walking their dogs, kids playing in the sun and runners circling the path, from Navy Pier to the Lincoln Park Zoo and beyond. So what happens when the weather gets cold?

 For Lakefront Trail users, adapting to the freezing temperatures and strong winds off of Lake Michigan while running, biking and skateboarding can be a challenge. Many change their routine.

 Shula Adinka, a graduate student at Northwestern University, likes running on the lakefront for long runs because she doesn’t have to deal with stopping for traffic lights. But she is more relaxed when it comes to running in the winter. “I don’t run as much in the winter,” she said. “From running three to four times a week, I drop to as low as one time per week.”

  In winter, Adinka prefers to use the treadmill. But if it’s not too cold and there’s a bit of sun outside, she also likes an alternative to the Lakefront Trail that’s closer to her university: Clark Street Beach in Evanston.

 Samuel Ramos, another graduate student at Northwestern, said he checks the forecast before deciding whether to run outside or inside on a treadmill. Ramos moved his running schedule indoors, only going outside when the weather conditions allow it.

“Compared to summer, I’m more flexible in winter and adjust based on conditions, but I still try to stay consistent with my runs,” he said.

He runs on the lakefront two to three times a month, usually when he plans a longer run. “The view is definitely the best part since the trail runs alongside Lake Michigan,” he said. “You get to see the lake, beaches, parks and boat docks, which makes the run feel less repetitive and more enjoyable.”

 “I just miss running in warmer temperatures, when it’s easier to break a sweat,” Ramos said.

 Risyad Rizka, a Chicago resident, said he also switched to a treadmill in the winter from his usually run on the Lakefront Trail every other day. “The weather isn’t friendly,” he said.

 Rizka lives near Millenium Park’s Cloud Gate sculpture, which many call “The Bean.” His usual five-mile path for running usually takes him from downtown to Lakefront Trail, which he finds more optimal than the traffic-congested city streets. “It takes me around 50 minutes to run,” he said. 

 But, he added, “You don’t have to run in the winter. You can do other activities. Don’t force yourself.”

For those who are brave enough to conquer the Lakefront Trail during the winter, the regulars suggest bundling up and staying warm.

Adinka had some tips for running in chilly weather. “Layer up but not too much!” she said. “I think it’s ideal to get the right clothing, but don’t over-layer yourself!”

 The Chicago Park District generally plows the Lakefront Trail when it snows, but Adinka said runners should be extra careful because it can get slippery.

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