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Bemis Woods South
4.6 ★★★★★ 209 Google reviews · Running trail in Western Springs, Illinois · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Bemis Woods South's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Shaded trails, picnic spots, and bridges dot this scenic forest preserve.
What runners say about Bemis Woods South
“The breeze is fresh and nice because of so many green beautiful trees.”
“Peaceful place to go for a run or walk.”
Surprise from nature in a form of nice park with walking trails, picnic areas, woods, and lawns. The woods are mainly around the creek. Further from is, there are open area with grass and picnic tables. Creek is nice, full of ducks and other birds. Bridge is connecting South and North shores.
I love to go on this trail at the end of the day. It’s safe, people is always walking, running, biking, fishing. You can find many animals like deers, so many singing birds that make you feel so distress. The breeze is fresh and nice because of so many green beautiful trees.
Nice area on Salt Creek. Not crowded even on a busy day. Lush foliage covering so you can take a cool hike on a hot day. Trails connect to other areas along the creek.
One of my favorite places to go. It's along the creek, they have wooden trails and paved trails for miles. The scenery is beautiful and in the morning I almost always see deer.
Trail conditions & character
“The breeze is fresh and nice because of so many green beautiful trees.”
“It was fine, good place for family outing reunions not many parking.”
“It's along the creek, they have wooden trails and paved trails for miles.”
“It can be muddy especially in April/may, so bring a change of shoes.”
“Nice place to regain perspective, go for walk, bring dog or maybe friend or spouse to enjoy the peace and serinity”
Plan your run at Bemis Woods South
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitefpdcc.com
- Phone(800) 870-3666
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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