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Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area
4.5 ★★★★★ 70 Google reviews · Running trail in Morris, 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 Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area 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.
Relaxing, grassy wildlife preserve with hiking trails, a lake and a butterfly sanctuary.
What runners say about Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area
“Beautiful prairie and small museum with nice exhibits.”
“Great paths and easy to follow roads help visitors navigate what remains of prairie that once covered this land as far as one could see.”
“A really nice quiet place you enjoy a walk and see the prairie as it was.”
Great paths and easy to follow roads help visitors navigate what remains of prairie that once covered this land as far as one could see. Interpretive signs supply additional information for the inquisitive. At times it feels as if one stepped through time.
We had a pleasant hour long walk here through the prairie. Bring bugspray, bring sunscreen, and bring water. We saw more than 10 different bird species, some very handsome herons, and more prairie potholes than we could count.
Wonderful place for a walk in the sun. Not sure I have the cultural palate to appreciate 2000 acres of various prairie grass species, but for the people who like that sort of thing, it's the sort of thing those people like. 200 acres would be plenty for me. Also they have a butterfly sanctuary!
Absolutely beautiful area with great hiking trails. Trails are primarily grass, which are very well-maintained, and crushed gravel on some parts of the tall grass trail. Very quiet and scenic. The prarie view trail offers beautiful views of the area at the end of trail.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful prairie and small museum with nice exhibits.”
“A really nice quiet place you enjoy a walk and see the prairie as it was.”
Plan your run at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area
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.
- Websitednr.illinois.gov
- Phone(815) 942-2899
Running trails near Morris
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
I&M Canal State Trail Access - Aux Sable
4.8 ★★★★★ 65 reviews
Hiking area with picnic tables and fishing spots.
William G. Stratton State Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 553 reviews
Public park with a boat launch and picnic areas, plus peaceful views of the lake.