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Dayton Bluffs Preserve
4.5 ★★★★★ 62 Google reviews · Running trail in Ottawa, Illinois · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Dayton Bluffs 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.
Nature preserve featuring trails, views and waterfalls as well as old oak trees, burial mounds and a cemetery.
What runners say about Dayton Bluffs Preserve
“Bluffs trail is beautiful, overlooking Fox River far below (we did not continue downhill at this point, as the trail was steep, wet and leaf covered).”
This hidden gem seemingly popped out of nowhere. We were able to hike about 4 miles and there were still places left to explore. Features small waterfalls. Gorgeous mature oak trees. Indian burial mounds. And, an old cemetery. Hiking is easy to moderate.
Update: I would recommend tick prevention applied before walking the paths. This was my first time going here. Will rate again after exploring further. So far light hiking on grassy paths.
This place way exceeded my expectations. Trails were extremely well-maintained and very clean. Plenty of different trails and options. Most of the trails are family-friendly, though one of the further options would probably not be safe for small children due to the narrow path and steep drop-off.
Probably one of my favourite areas to go walking out of the Dekalb - Lasalle area. Lots of tall climbs along the river and even a cool graveyard along the way as well, with graves all the way dating back to the civil war. Quite cool, i wonder if some of the families are in the area.
Trail conditions & character
“Bluffs trail is beautiful, overlooking Fox River far below (we did not continue downhill at this point, as the trail was steep, wet and leaf covered).”
“Most of the trails are family-friendly, though one of the further options would probably not be safe for small children due to the narrow path and steep drop-off.”
“Surprised that maps are provided near the parking lot!”
“Great place to hike no matter the expert level tons of hidden things to explore including an old family cemetery and some waterfalls.”
Plan your run at Dayton Bluffs Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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 — reported by runners
- Websitetheconservationfoundation.org
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–8 pm |
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