The best running trails around Westmont
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75
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If you've ever tried planning a jogging route around Westmont, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many parks and preserves, it's tough to tell which trails are genuinely worth your time and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed countless routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best.
Jogging around Westmont is all about embracing the area's beautiful forest preserves, local parks, and river valleys. You'll find well-maintained paths winding through wooded areas and open fields, with generally minimal elevation gains that make most routes accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. The mild climate here means you can enjoy these natural settings year-round, offering everything from easy strolls to more challenging runs.
If you only do one route, we'd point you straight to the Night Heron Trail Loop. This 3.7-mile (6.0 km) path is a local favourite for a reason, winding through prairies and wetlands alongside Salt Creek. For something a bit longer, the Burlington Avenue Pond loop from Westmont offers a solid 6.1 miles (9.8 km) of varied terrain. With more than 600 runners using komoot to explore Westmont, you can trust these routes are worth your legs.
Last updated: May 31, 2026
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6.01km
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The Night Heron Trail Loop offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through the diverse ecosystems of Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve. You'll jog along well-maintained paths of crushed gravel, pavement, and unpaved sections, all while enjoying picturesque views of Salt Creek and its charming North Island. Keep an eye out for local birdlife, especially herons, at the designated viewing spot, as the trail immerses you in dense hardwood forests and open prairies. This moderate 3.7-mile (6.0 km) route, with only 41 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxing 42-minute jog.
Planning your visit to the Night Heron Trail Loop is straightforward, as it's a highly accessible and family-friendly option. The trail is well-suited for all skill levels, making it a great choice for a beginner jogging route. While beautiful in spring with its vibrant greenery, the trail is particularly renowned for its stunning fall foliage, making autumn a prime time to experience its colors. Parking is generally available at the Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve, providing easy access to the trailhead.
Part of the larger Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook, Illinois, the Night Heron Trail Loop offers a sense of wilderness within an urban setting. Its multi-use nature means you might share the path with hikers and even Nordic skiers in winter, highlighting its versatility. The minimal elevation and varied, well-maintained terrain ensure a comfortable experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a peaceful and engaging outdoor activity close to home.
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21
runners
4.23km
00:26
10m
10m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
runners
6.63km
00:42
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
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9.50km
00:59
30m
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Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.28km
00:33
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Eastern trailhead for the Night Heron Trail, an almost 3-mile loop trail that takes you through the Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve. The trailhead had picnic tables, parking, and restrooms.
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Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve offers over 200 acres of wilderness and nature without having to leave the city. Salt Creek winds through the park, and a couple bridges help connect the trail system within Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve to the commuter trails passing by the property.
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Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve offers over 200 acres of wilderness and nature without having to leave the city. Salt Creek winds through the park, and a couple bridges help connect the trail system within Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve to the commuter trails passing by the property.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Westmont?
Westmont offers a wide selection of jogging routes, with over 60 trails available for you to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy strolls to more challenging runs.
What types of terrain can I expect on the jogging trails near Westmont?
The jogging trails around Westmont feature diverse terrain. You'll find well-maintained paths through wooded areas, open fields, and along river valleys. Many preserves, like Waterfall Glen, offer crushed gravel paths, while others, such as sections of the Salt Creek Trail System, include both paved and unpaved sections. You can also find paved loops in local parks like Ty Warner Park.
Are there any running routes with scenic views or landmarks?
Yes, several routes offer beautiful scenery. For instance, Running loop from Brookfield provides views along the Des Plaines River and Salt Creek, showcasing a glacial valley. Greene Valley Forest Preserve boasts a spectacular 190-foot scenic overlook with views of the Chicago skyline. You can also find interesting sights like the Sawmill Creek Bridge within Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve.
Are there any circular running routes in the Westmont area?
Absolutely. Many of the best running spots in the region feature circular routes. For example, the Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve loop via Night Heron Trail is a scenic 3.7-mile loop. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve also offers a well-maintained 9-mile loop trail, and Ty Warner Park has a 0.9-mile paved outer loop.
What are the difficulty levels of jogging routes in Westmont?
Westmont's jogging routes cater to all fitness levels. You'll find 10 easy routes, 43 moderate routes, and 9 more challenging options. Most routes have minimal elevation gain, making them accessible for a wide range of runners. For an easy option, consider the Running loop from Hilton Chicago / Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center.
Can I spot wildlife while jogging in Westmont?
Yes, the forest preserves around Westmont are excellent for wildlife spotting. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is home to over 300 species of wildlife. Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve, with its prairies, wetlands, and wooded areas along Salt Creek, is also a great spot for bird-watching and observing local fauna.
Are there any family-friendly or stroller-friendly running trails?
Yes, several trails are suitable for families and strollers. The Salt Creek Greenway Black Paved Loop, north of the Chicago Portage National Historic Site, is a 3.7-mile out-and-back pathway that is stroller and wheelchair-friendly. Local parks like Ty Warner Park also offer easy, paved loops perfect for a family run.
Are there any routes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the prominent Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is named for its dynamic Rocky Glen waterfall. The preserve offers a fantastic 9-mile loop trail where you can enjoy this natural feature amidst fields of wildflowers and lush forest glades.
What do other runners say about jogging in Westmont?
The jogging routes in Westmont are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 4 reviews. Runners often praise the well-maintained paths, diverse natural beauty, and the variety of options available for different fitness levels.
Are there options for longer running distances?
Yes, if you're looking for longer runs, the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve offers a substantial 9-mile (14.5 km) loop. Additionally, the Burlington Avenue Pond loop from Belmont is a moderate 6.7-mile (10.9 km) route, providing a good option for extended outings.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Westmont?
Westmont offers an inviting option for joggers year-round due to its moderate climate. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is also popular, though it's best to run in the mornings or evenings to avoid the midday heat. Winter running is possible, especially on well-maintained, cleared paths.
Are there any lakes or water features along the running routes?
Yes, Hidden Lake Forest Preserve features a 15-acre lake, a 10-acre pond, and a river, offering tranquil settings with spectacular flora and fauna. You can also find highlights like Tomahawk Slough and Bullfrog Lake in the wider Westmont area, providing scenic water views.
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