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Blackwell Forest Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,701 Google reviews · Running trail in Warrenville, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- 7 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Blackwell Forest 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.
Scenic area with 9 miles of trails, picnic sites, fishing & boat rentals, camping, tubing & more.
What runners say about Blackwell Forest Preserve
“The grounds are so clean even down to the portable bathrooms.”
“It has been about 25 years since I have been here, such a beautiful setting, and really good memories.”
“Great place to walk, run, bike ride and of course fish.”
It's a great hill for tubing. It cost just $10 per rental and the average person will last about an hour. For us, we went up 3 times. It took about 15 minutes to get up the hill and a quick 40 seconds to come down. I have no idea how quick we were coming down, but it was fast.
Great place to walk, run, bike ride and of course fish. This was lace is way bigger than I expected. They have boat rentals. The rental stand opens at 10am. Caught a few fish when I was there. Would definitely go back.
Sunset Gem! If you're looking for a place to watch a beautiful sunset with a gorgeous view ... This is one of the best in the suburbs of Chicago. The pic is from the top of what I would call a sledding/snowboard hill. You do have to walk up which may be physically exhausting for a few. Well worth it!
I had a nice hike from White Pines Pond to McKee Marsh Loop I was did some off main trail excursions. To walked about 6 miles. I found several ponds, archery, large hill (didnt go to top) and some campgrounds. Overall, nice path with frequent people sightings along the path.
Trail conditions & character
“The preserve is healing to me, and I enjoy the walk-up mount hoy for the fantastic views of the neighboring towns.”
“I found several ponds, archery, large hill (didnt go to top) and some campgrounds.”
“The grounds are so clean even down to the portable bathrooms.”
Plan your run at Blackwell Forest Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- Distance7 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit. Long enough for a real long run.
- 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.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitedupageforest.org
- Phone(630) 933-7200
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Warrenville
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
McKee Marsh at Blackwell Forest Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 45 reviews
Nature preserve featuring scenic trails for walking, biking, and jogging.
Warrenville Grove
4.7 ★★★★★ 271 reviews
Woodland park featuring areas for picnicking & fishing, plus a trail network for hiking & biking.
Kress Creek Farms Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 141 reviews
Rolling neighborhood park with a playground, pond, disc-golf course & walking trails.
St. James Farm Forest Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 983 reviews
Hikers, bikers & horseback riders can explore a protected area of woodlands, prairies & wetlands.