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G.A.R. Woods
4.6 ★★★★★ 24 Google reviews · Running trail in River Forest, Illinois · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from G.A.R. Woods' 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.
Forested wildlife preserve along the Des Plaines River with a walking path & abundant birds.
What runners say about G.A.R. Woods
“R Woods are perfect for a peaceful and calm walk in the morning, besides great for bird and deer watching, dog walking and why not, to take your morning run.”
Great trail to explore with your dogs. We had trouble accessing an entrance point not being local to the area. We parked in the neighborhood close by and had to walk on the grass along a busy road to find a way into the preserve. You’ll see a sign that explains the land and trail. Hopefully this helps someone else!
G.A.R Woods are perfect for a peaceful and calm walk in the morning, besides great for bird and deer watching, dog walking and why not, to take your morning run.
Nice woods to go for a walk in and be in nature get away from all the city noises see the wildlife/deer/fishing etc a side note: try to follow or find a trail
Great quiet place to walk the dog, typically not busy at all. Trails are rudimentary and it gets muddy when wet but I’ll happily deal with it having a forest trail right in an urban neighborhood! Strong chance you’ll see some pretty tame deer that are used to humans.
Trail conditions & character
“R Woods are perfect for a peaceful and calm walk in the morning, besides great for bird and deer watching, dog walking and why not, to take your morning run.”
Plan your run at G.A.R. Woods
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- 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
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitefpdcc.com
- Phone(800) 870-3666
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–8:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM–8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–8:30 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM–8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–8:30 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–8:30 PM |
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