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Grassy Lake Forest Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 133 Google reviews · Running trail in Lake Barrington, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Grassy Lake Forest Preserve'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.
This 689-acre nature preserve features a river, scenic overlooks, hiking trails & toilets.
What runners say about Grassy Lake Forest Preserve
“Amazing & beautiful nature surrounds you while you walk, jog or run and enjoy the many scenic paths which are well kept.”
“Amazing & beautiful nature surrounds you while you walk, jog or run and enjoy the many scenic paths which are well kept.”
“2) For a while they were considering allowing bicycles on this path which would completely change and destroy the quiet natural feel of the path.”
This forest preserve has two primary trails. The Red Trail is shorter and is great for a brief dog walk. There is a spot to take in the shoreline of the Fox River. The Yellow Trail - south of Kelsey - ends with an elevated scenic overview that is great for birding.
The area shown on Google is just the 100 acre Hurd property addition, the whole forest preserve is 700 acres. Additional parking is at the Village Hall on Old Barrington Road. Several miles of great walking trails. Bikes are not allowed.
Love this forest preserve. It's an absolute gorgeous place to walk, run, or bike. The trail goes up to 10 miles +, and there are plenty of new views around every corner. Beautiful any time of year ❤️
Nice peaceful trail. Not crowded. Perfect for a walk or a run. There is a green grass runoff trail that takes you towards the river, it doesn't allow bikes on that path.
Trail conditions & character
“Amazing & beautiful nature surrounds you while you walk, jog or run and enjoy the many scenic paths which are well kept.”
“2) For a while they were considering allowing bicycles on this path which would completely change and destroy the quiet natural feel of the path.”
“Glacial kames (gravel hills) provide beautiful overlooks of the Fox River.”
“We walked half the red path from the parking lot to the hill and back, 3 miles.”
“We've been to this preserve thrice now and know two parking lots, one off of Kelsey and another off of Old Barrington.”
Plan your run at Grassy Lake Forest Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceCrushed gravel — the rail-trail classic: softer than asphalt, still smooth enough for tempo work
- 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
- Websitelcfpd.org
- Phone+1 847-367-6640
Running trails near Lake Barrington
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Grassy Lake Trails
4.7 ★★★★★ 10 reviews
Lyons Prairie and Marsh Conservation Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 46 reviews
Nature preserve offering trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and fishing.
Fox River Forest Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 486 reviews
Popular nature preserve with trails, picnic areas, a boat launch, and fishing spots.
Hickory Grove Highlands Conservation Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 91 reviews
Nature preserve offers hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, fishing, and geocaching.
Cary-Grove Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 106 reviews
Large park with swings, slides, a playground, basketball courts and picnic tables, plus fields for soccer and football.
Fox Trail Park
5 ★★★★★ 1 reviews