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Forest Preserves of Cook County
4.5 ★★★★★ 100 Google reviews · Running trail in Park Ridge, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Forest Preserves of Cook County yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. 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.
A number of forests are joined together at this preservation with nature centers & campgrounds.
What runners say about Forest Preserves of Cook County
Some people say Illinois is not as nice as more well known states for its outdoor beauty. Sure it is cold for what seems like forever but once it starts to warm up this is a great spot to soak up nature. Lots of nice places to hike or bring a picnic if you like.
Wonderful forest preserve to just get away from it. Has miles and miles of running trails. Lots of deer everywhere!
Great trails. Great to walk or bike on. Friendly people there. I recommend to go check it out yourself. There is many trees and wild life. Great place to take pictures. Cool rivers to bike right next to.
Walked on Des Plaines River Trail. Excellent place to walk very scenic and saw a couple deer while on the trail.
Plan your run at Forest Preserves of Cook County
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late 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.
- Websitefpdcc.com
Running trails near Park Ridge
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Catherine Chevalier Woods
4.6 ★★★★★ 1,097 reviews
This expansive tract features a variety of nature habitats, plus areas for picnicking & hiking.
Chippewa Woods
4.6 ★★★★★ 448 reviews
This forest preserve offers a picnic grove with a shelter along with wildlife & a fishing lake.
Centennial Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 427 reviews
Well-maintained recreational area with basketball courts, pools and sports fields.
Iroquois Woods
4.4 ★★★★☆ 70 reviews
Kid-friendly nature preserve featuring hiking trails.
Maine Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 30 reviews