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Fox River Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 388 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 Fox River Park'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.
Riverfront area with scenic natural views, beach, pool with splash area & disc golf course.
What runners say about Fox River Park
“Really beautiful park for kids to play and people to put their boats in or people to fish”
There is a wonderful path along the river. Great for walking your dog on. Leads right into downtown Ottawa.
Trying to be fit? Then the this trail is the perfect spot and its all the way to Chicago if you can survive. This is the peaceful trail I’ve ever been so far. But my sister to told me to very be careful and not go alone.
Nice little place to take the kids. Close enough to the river to walk around, enough play things to keep the kids occupied. There's also a splash pad and disc golf here (if you're not familiar with the park)
So pretty. The trees around the path make it so serene. I actually saw a fox here not too long ago. A lot of options for trails and there is a boat dock in the back.
Trail conditions & character
“Beatiful park with a river view and tons of signs that encourage you to breathe and enjoy company.”
“Relaxing place to walk your dog, nice playground area for the kids, beautiful scenery 😊”
Plan your run at Fox River Park
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.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitecityofottawa.org
- Phone+1 815-433-0161
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 |
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