2.8
(6)
40
hikers
Spears Woods loop from Willow Springs
00:51
3.31km
20m
Hiking
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.65ย km
Palos Yellow Trail (Willow Springs Woods)
Highlight โข Trail
Tip by
2.71ย km
Spears Woods
Highlight โข Forest
Tip by
3.31ย km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
1.77ย km
1.52ย km
< 100ย m
Surfaces
2.90ย km
384ย m
< 100ย m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 5 July
24ยฐC
20ยฐC
41ย %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0ย km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an easy, high-payoff hiking experience near Willow Springs, the Spears Woods loop from Willow Springs is an excellent choice. This 2.1-mile (3.3 km) route, rated easy, offers a diverse journey with only 57 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 51 minutes. It's perfect for anyone seeking a quick escape into nature without a strenuous climb.
What to expect on Spears Woods loop from Willow Springs
The trail takes you through a rich mosaic of habitats, from sun-dappled oak groves and woodlands to sweeping prairies and sedge meadows. You'll encounter rolling terrain that offers varied panoramas, and you might even spot hidden wetlands like Hogwash Slough, Boomerang Slough, and Pollywog Slough. While many sections feature wide, graveled paths suitable for various activities, you'll also find more intimate, narrower soil trails within the prairies and woodlands that are hiking-only. The overall effort is easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
Planning your visit
Spears Woods is part of the larger Palos Trail System and is accessible year-round, offering different charms with each season. Late July is particularly vibrant with wildflowers like prairie blazing star, while autumn brings beautiful fall colors. No permits are mentioned as required for this area. The trailhead at Willow Springs provides convenient access to this ecologically rich preserve.
Trail details
- Distance: 2.1 miles (3.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 57 feet (17 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 51 minutes
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