The best running trails around Lake Forest
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572
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86
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Jogging around Lake Forest offers access to a network of trails primarily situated within forest preserves and along greenways. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various fitness levels. Runners can explore natural landscapes characterized by woodlands, savannas, and river corridors. These routes provide opportunities for outdoor activity within a natural setting.
Best jogging routes around Lake Forest
- The most popular jogging route is Old School Forest Preserve Loop, a 2.7 miles (4.4 km) trail that takes 31 minutes to complete. This loop offers a straightforward path through a local forest preserve.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve via Middlefork Greenway — Lake Forest, Illinois, a moderate 5.1 miles (8.2 km) path. This route traverses savanna landscapes and follows a greenway, providing varied scenery.
- Local runners also love the Half Day County Forest Preserve loop via Des Plaines River Trail, a 2.9 miles (4.6 km) trail leading through a county forest preserve and along a river trail, often completed in about 33 minutes.
- Jogging around Lake Forest is defined by forest preserves, savannas, and river trails. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more advanced running routes.
- The routes in Lake Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.5 stars from 2 reviews. More than 500 runners have used komoot to explore Lake Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
8
runners
4.40km
00:31
10m
10m
The Old School Forest Preserve Loop offers a delightful and accessible jogging experience, guiding you through a serene landscape of woodlands and open prairies. You'll find yourself on well-kept gravel paths, with sections that provide tranquil pond views and opportunities for birdwatching. The scenery is especially captivating in August when the prairie flowers burst into a rainbow of colors, making for a truly picturesque run.
Planning your visit is simple, as the preserve provides convenient parking and requires no permits or entrance fees. This easy 2.7-mile (4.4 km) route, with only 45 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a quick 30-minute jog. It's an ideal choice for families or anyone seeking a relaxed, dog-friendly outing, though remember to keep your canine companions on a leash.
Beyond its natural beauty, Old School Forest Preserve holds historical significance as Illinois' first forest preserve to integrate native prairie restoration with recreational facilities. The loop also connects to the broader Des Plaines River Trail, allowing for longer runs if desired, and even boasts a popular sledding hill that transforms the area into a winter wonderland.
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The Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve via Middlefork Greenway offers a delightful jogging experience through one of Illinois' ecological treasures. This 5.1-mile (8.2 km) route, with a gentle 33 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along a mostly gravel path through expansive tallgrass savannas, oak woodlands, and wetlands. You'll cross boardwalks and the North Branch of the Chicago River, enjoying varied scenery and opportunities for wildlife sightings, making it one of the more popular trails for jogging in Lake Forest.
Planning your visit is straightforward; the preserve is easily accessible with available parking. This multi-use trail is perfect for a quick outing, taking approximately 57 minutes to complete at a jogging pace. Dogs are welcome on leash on the main gravel paths, but note they are not allowed on the shorter mowed grass sections. It's a great option for beginner jogging routes, offering a moderate challenge without significant climbs.
This area is a nationally significant ecological site, home to some of the best-preserved tallgrass savanna in the United States. Beyond its natural beauty, the trail connects to the historic Elawa Farm and features a unique pedestrian bridge over Metra tracks, blending natural and historical elements. The Middlefork Greenway jogging routes in Lake Forest, Illinois, provide a unique chance to explore a biodiversity hotspot.
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2
runners
3.41km
00:23
20m
20m
The Fort Sheridan Birding Trail Loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a fantastic choice for a quick outdoor escape. You'll jog through diverse ecosystems, from woodlands to savanna, and enjoy awe-inspiring views of Lake Michigan from a 70-foot-high bluff. Keep an eye out for the historic Fort Sheridan Water Tower and the tranquil Patton Pond as you navigate the varied terrain of grass, packed dirt, and some asphalt sections.
This easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) jogging route, with just 58 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 22 minutes, making it ideal for a refreshing run. The trail is generally considered easy, though the ravine portions may require more careful footing due to roots and uneven ground. It's a great option for beginner joggers or anyone seeking a scenic, low-impact workout.
What truly sets this trail apart is its exceptional birdwatching opportunities, being located on one of North America's busiest flyways with over 236 species observed. It also provides rare public access to Lake Michigan in Lake County and features historical remnants of the former military base, complete with interpretive signs. This blend of nature, history, and wildlife makes it a standout choice among local jogging routes.
16
runners
45.9km
04:45
110m
110m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
8.83km
00:55
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Lake Forest
Tips from the Community
The trail is generally flat, making it easy for walking, running, and biking for people of all ages and fitness levels. As you travel along the trail, you'll experience a beautiful mix of habitats.
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The Lake at Independence Grove is a must-visit stop along the Des Plaines River Trail, offering cyclists a scenic and easy ride through a 115-acre retreat. Once a gravel quarry, this reclaimed space now features smooth paths, gentle terrain, and beautiful lake views—perfect for beginners and family-friendly outings. Visit in the spring, and you might spot colorful wildflowers adding even more charm to this peaceful ride.
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This stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail leads you to Minear Lake, a peaceful 72-acre lake perfect for a break. Take in the calm waters surrounded by tall trees, then head just steps away to the sandy beach if you're up for a swim. In the summer, it’s an ideal spot for a refreshing dip, but even if you’re just passing through, the quiet shoreline offers the perfect place to pause and soak in the scenery.
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MacArthur Woods is a preserved forest that showcases the original landscape of the eastern Des Plaines River Valley. The area features a diverse mix of plants, creating an important habitat for breeding forest birds, including the brown creeper, red-shouldered hawk, broad-winged hawk, veery, pileated woodpecker, and several rare warblers.
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The Lake at Independence Grove, a highlight along the Des Plaines River Trail, offers hikers a scenic 115-acre retreat within a reclaimed gravel quarry. If you're visiting in the spring, you may be able to spot colorful warblers along the surrounding woodlands!
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This winding dirt trail takes you through the heart of the Middlefork Savanna. You parallel the North Branch Chicago River as the trail meanders through verdant riverlands. This is a great place to see herons, turtles, and a host of other wildlife that call the preserve home.
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MacArthur Woods is a preserved forest that showcases the original landscape of the eastern Des Plaines River Valley. The area features a diverse mix of plants, creating an important habitat for breeding forest birds, including the brown creeper, red-shouldered hawk, broad-winged hawk, veery, pileated woodpecker, and several rare warblers.
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A footbridge over the Des Plaines River connects Half Day to Wright Woods Forest Preserve, providing scenic outdoor recreation. Both preserves feature the Des Plaines River Trail, perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing on its gravel base.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Lake Forest?
Lake Forest offers a diverse network of nearly 70 running routes. These trails cater to various fitness levels, with options ranging from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance runs through forest preserves and along greenways.
Are there easy running paths suitable for beginners in Lake Forest?
Yes, Lake Forest has 11 easy running routes, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for all. An excellent option is the Half Day County Forest Preserve loop via Des Plaines River Trail, which is 2.9 miles long and mostly flat.
What kind of scenery can I expect on Lake Forest's jogging trails?
The jogging routes in Lake Forest primarily traverse natural landscapes characterized by woodlands, savannas, and river corridors. You'll find yourself immersed in forest preserves, enjoying varied scenery that includes open savannas and peaceful river trails. For example, the Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve via Middlefork Greenway offers a blend of savanna and greenway views.
Are there any longer running routes for experienced runners in Lake Forest?
Absolutely. For those seeking a longer challenge, Lake Forest offers 14 difficult and 44 moderate routes. A notable option is the Des Plaines River Trail – Cahokia Flatwoods loop from Aptakisic, which spans over 6.8 miles (11 km) and provides a good distance for endurance training.
Can I find loop trails for running in Lake Forest?
Many of Lake Forest's running paths are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. A popular choice is the Old School Forest Preserve Loop, a 2.7-mile trail that takes you through a local forest preserve and brings you back to your starting point.
What are some interesting natural attractions or landmarks along the running routes?
While jogging in Lake Forest, you can encounter several natural attractions. Highlights include various lakes like Independence Grove Lake and Minear Lake, as well as the serene Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds. You might also cross the Des Plaines River bridge or explore areas like MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve.
Are Lake Forest's running trails suitable for families?
Yes, many of the trails, particularly the 11 easy routes, are well-suited for families. The generally flat terrain and well-maintained paths within the forest preserves make them enjoyable for all ages. Consider routes that are shorter and have minimal elevation for a pleasant family outing.
What do other runners say about jogging in Lake Forest?
The running routes in Lake Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 3.5 stars. Over 500 runners have explored these trails, often praising the peaceful forest preserve settings and the variety of paths available for different skill levels.
Is there public transport access to Lake Forest's jogging trails?
While Lake Forest is primarily a suburban area, some forest preserves and trailheads may be accessible via local bus services or Metra train stations, though direct access to every trailhead can vary. It's advisable to check specific route access points and local public transport schedules for the most convenient options.
When is the best time of year to go running in Lake Forest?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for running in Lake Forest, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, so early morning or late evening runs are recommended. Winter running is possible, but trails may be snowy or icy, requiring appropriate gear.
Are there any hidden gem running trails in Lake Forest that are less crowded?
While popular routes like Old School Forest Preserve Loop attract many, exploring some of the less-trafficked sections of the larger forest preserves or greenways can reveal quieter paths. The Fort Sheridan Birding Trail Loop, for instance, offers a serene experience with opportunities for birdwatching, potentially providing a more secluded run.
Are dogs allowed on the running routes in Lake Forest?
Many of the forest preserves and greenways in Lake Forest are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check the specific regulations for each forest preserve or trail you plan to visit to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your canine companion.
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