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Blackthorn Hill Nature Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 70 Google reviews · Running trail in Galesburg, Illinois · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Blackthorn Hill Nature Preserve'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.
Preserve featuring a network of trails and picnic areas, plus a fire pit.
What runners say about Blackthorn Hill Nature Preserve
“Well-maintained trails and decent restroom facilities.”
“Beautiful trail with easy & moderate hike options.”
This is an AMAZING trail! I just walked for an hour and a half. There are still a lot of side trails that I did not explore yet. I am not a very athletic person and I believe it was an easy walk. No paved walkways which I love. The trails are pretty smooth for the most part and there is a lot to see here.
Very secluded and not too frequented but maintained. Recommend if you don't want to be around others. Other cars were in the parking lot but never encountered anyone on the trails
We didn’t know this place existed and was real glad we decided to check it out. Nice wide trails, nice pavilions and seating. Actually in the woods and many wild flowers on other side. No other people were around which is also a very nice touch.
The beauty in a 10 acre spread with natural growth, trails mowed for safety, even marked where the ground may have a bit more water than expected. Just beautiful.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful trail with easy & moderate hike options.”
“Other cars were in the parking lot but never encountered anyone on the trails”
“Well-maintained trails and decent restroom facilities.”
Plan your run at Blackthorn Hill Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- 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
- Websiteblackthornhill.org
- Phone(309) 337-9020
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–9 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–9 PM |
Running trails near Galesburg
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Lake Storey Park
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Fishing is allowed with a permit at this public park located on the shores of Lake Storey.
Lakeside Nature Center
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Inbinder Park
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Park with a playground where dogs can run off leash and a paved trail surrounds a pond.
Lincoln Park
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Family-friendly park featuring picnic shelters, a swimming pool, fishing ponds and playgrounds.
Rotary Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 265 reviews
12-acre neighborhood park with a playground & splash pad, plus ice skating in the winter.
Kiwanis Park
4.1 ★★★★☆ 181 reviews
Recreational area with an 18-hole disc golf course, a lighted softball field, and a playground, plus a skateboard half-pipe.