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Green Earth's Fernlands Nature Preserve
4.5 ★★★★★ 29 Google reviews · Running trail in Carbondale, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Green Earth's Fernlands Nature 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.
What runners say about Green Earth's Fernlands Nature Preserve
Fernlands is a beautiful little getaway. I've seen some of the coolest mushroom species here. It's a short hike, slightly less than a mile. But I recommend you take the time to explore the creek beds and forest edges. I took my dog and my friends dog here all the time.
If you go West over the bridge, you'll have to turn around at a point to get back, as some of the trail has been decommissioned. But today when we came back we went the other direction and made a successful loop, and had a nice moderate impact hike! Thanks Green Earth. We love this trail! 👍 ✌️ 🌎 💚
The trail was a lower-level challenge with steeper hills, some roots, and slippery spots. Very young children might struggle with the terrain and length of the trail, but older children might enjoy the challenge.
Great, Quiet location! More people need to know this nature preserve exists with some great trails
Trail conditions & character
“I took my dog and my friends dog here all the time.”
“The trail was a lower-level challenge with steeper hills, some roots, and slippery spots.”
“But today when we came back we went the other direction and made a successful loop, and had a nice moderate impact hike!”
Plan your run at Green Earth's Fernlands Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- 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.
- Websitegreenearthinc.org
- Phone+1 618-201-3774
- Social Facebook
Running trails near Carbondale
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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Green Earth Oakland Nature Preserve
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Rocky Bluff Trail
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