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Greenbelt Forest Preserve
4.6 ★★★★★ 680 Google reviews · Running trail in North Chicago, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Greenbelt 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.
Urban oasis featuring fishing, a summer farmers' market & miles of hiking & biking trails.
What runners say about Greenbelt Forest Preserve
“The lake is so clean, not too many people, water clear clean see thru.”
“We visited in the winter to take a walk and everything was dormant but I could tell it would be a beautiful wildlife area to visit in the spring and summer.”
“Great place for walk, jogging and biking.”
“Beautiful peaceful spot in North Chicago to take a walk, and just connect with nature.”
It's one of my favorite parks to come do something with my boys in bycicle, running or walking, but the only thing that I don't really like is that there is not much security or vigilance.
This was our first time walking this trails in lake county. Nice length with a variety of water, trees, prairie etc. there are also a few benches to sit down along the path.
Such a peaceful and beautiful area to walk/run on the trails! Its a nice place to see nature and plenty of wildlife! Everyone has been friendly and respectful of our space. There are shelters with tables for a picnic or a get together. There is playground equipment for kids and bathroom facilities.
Forest preserve with ponds and walking trails bringing Nature close to the self. Great place for walk, jogging and biking. Plenty of parking really helps.
Trail conditions & character
“We visited in the winter to take a walk and everything was dormant but I could tell it would be a beautiful wildlife area to visit in the spring and summer.”
“Beautiful peaceful spot in North Chicago to take a walk, and just connect with nature.”
“Its got good shaded areas, the wildlife is cool and the gravel is packed enough its good to run on.”
Plan your run at Greenbelt 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
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitelcfpd.org
- Phone(847) 367-6640
Running trails near North Chicago
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Lake County Forest Preserve
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Shaw Park
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