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Heron Creek Forest Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 426 Google reviews · Running trail in Long Grove, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Loop distance
- 1 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Heron Creek 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.
242-acre nature preserve featuring 2.3 miles of trails, a playground & over 100 species of birds.
What runners say about Heron Creek Forest Preserve
“The trails are well-maintained and wind through diverse landscapes of woodlands, wetlands, and open fields.”
“Don’t expect to see Heron but beautiful forest preserve with a lot of small birds.”
“It's a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying some fresh air.”
Nice calm and peaceful forest preserve, with a Creek running through it. Walking through beautiful winding trails was very relaxing. Spotted couple of deers while walking. The play area is well maintained and not so crowded. There are plenty of parking lots available.
Heron Creek Forest Preserve is a true gem! The trails are well-maintained and wind through diverse landscapes of woodlands, wetlands, and open fields. It's a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying some fresh air. The accessible playground is a huge plus for families.
Nice crushed gravel trails. Lots of birds and spring flowers. Can get three miles of walking in.
I've been going to this place for a number of years. I always enjoy it. It has long nice trails. Although there are only a few trails they are all enjoyable. This place has a massive grill and park. Its the perfect place for holding events. There are countless reasons to come.
Trail conditions & character
“Easily accessible from the parking lot and can even pull a vehicle up to the shelter for unloading and loding!”
“I love the bridges over streams, lake views and abundance of diverse native plant life.”
“This is one of the conservation areas that we frequently walk in since it has a good loop with good shaded areas, and open areas as well if you prefer the sunshine.”
“Nice crushed gravel trails, 1 1/2 mile loop, clean, plenty of parking and bathrooms!”
“Nice crushed gravel trails, 1 1/2 mile loop, clean, plenty of parking and bathrooms!”
“It's a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying some fresh air.”
“Easily accessible from the parking lot and can even pull a vehicle up to the shelter for unloading and loding!”
“The water fountain near the parking lot was not operational.”
Plan your run at Heron Creek 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
- Loop distance1 mi back to where you parked
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — 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 Long Grove
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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