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Boone Creek Conservation Area
4.8 ★★★★★ 127 Google reviews · Running trail in Bull Valley, Illinois · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- 98 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Boone Creek Conservation Area'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.
Sprawling destination featuring a number of trails, plus picnic tables, shelters and a deck.
What runners say about Boone Creek Conservation Area
“The trails are well kept, but I would use extreme caution if you want to go even a little bit off the marked trails!”
“Large picnic area overlooking small, scenic valley next to parking lot.”
“Easy trail, just under 2 miles.”
We picked a perfect day to try a new place for a hike. Neither of us had been before. We LOVED the trail, and how secluded it felt. We only saw a couple other people on the trail. If you like trails that are more natural feeling vs pavement this is perfect for you.
Very pretty. Mowed paths, thick forest for most parts. No risk of getting lost on trail. Set up for taking either a mile or two mile loop. You’ll need bug spray. Large picnic area overlooking small, scenic valley next to parking lot. Bathroom onsite.
Boone Creek conservation area, off of cold Springs Road has a gated entrance, a short drive down a paved path that leads to an open wallet parking area. There is a single stall restroom as well as handicap parking immediately accessible from the parking lot sidewalk.
Nice, quiet grassy 2 mi. path. Slightly hilly with ground roots. Gravel path has several trip hazards, beware. Picnic shelter, telescopes & 1 tissue supplied restroom 🚻. And best is the view in every direction...looking forward to visit during all seasons, sunrises & sunsets. Hidden gem!
Trail conditions & character
“The breathtaking views of the horizon during sunset is my favorite time to visit.”
“Boone Creek conservation area, off of cold Springs Road has a gated entrance, a short drive down a paved path that leads to an open wallet parking area.”
“I went for a hike and the loop was kinda small compared to the drive.”
“There is a single stall restroom as well as handicap parking immediately accessible from the parking lot sidewalk.”
Plan your run at Boone Creek Conservation Area
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- Loop distance98 mi back to where you parked. 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
- Websitemccdistrict.org
- Phone(815) 338-6223
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Bull Valley
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Dufield Pond Conservation Area
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Fort McHenry Park
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Emricson Park
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