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Gilkey Trails
4.7 ★★★★★ 40 Google reviews · Running trail in Plainwell, Michigan · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Gilkey Trails' 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.
What runners say about Gilkey Trails
The Gilkey Lab is a great option for a very nice short hike. Located right behind Gilkey Elementary, you can gain access to the trail either by the overlook to the pond or behind the soccer field. I prefer the pond access as it runs parallel with the Kalamazoo River and splits off into two separate trails.
Behind Gilkey Elementary, these are some pretty nice trail that people walk on and hang out. I've seen people walk alone, in groups, and with dogs. The trail lead you to the Kalamazoo River where (if you're not weary of the potential pollution) you can wade or swim in the usually calm portion of the river.
Very nice, maintained, shaded trails. Best to enter behind the grade school. Parking available. Wear bug spray.
Great walking trail in the summer, or evenings in the spring/fall. I struggled to find it at first. Best parking I found was actually behind the school. The yellow sign across the lawn (shown in picture) marks the start of the trail. My wife and I could walk side by side most of the way, and trail was decently groomed.
Trail conditions & character
“I've never seen animals here other than your usual backyard birds and the occasional person walking their dog.”
Plan your run at Gilkey Trails
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.
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–10 pm |
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