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Hickory Creek Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 474 Google reviews · Running trail in Mokena, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Hickory Creek 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.
Beyond its grassy expanses, this charming preserve features scenic hikes & ski trails.
What runners say about Hickory Creek Preserve
“Lots of flora to photograph, clean,safe and easily accessible.”
“I absolutely love it here, it is absolutely beautiful and you can bike, run, walk, jog or even just sit down and watch all the different birds there are.”
“A very scenic walk or bike riding trail with great views ! There’s several hills, train tracks, benches, rivers & a bridge. I would definitely recommend this trail to anyone looking for somewhere to ride bikes or walk!” — Chloe
Besides the obviously busy roads near the entrances which can be quite loud, the nature preserve is gorgeous, well-maintained, and full of wildlife ranging from squirrels to deer and many great bird singers in between.
Nice place for a walk , perfect place to take engament, family picture or justa a walk in the nature. Very pretty Preserve area.
This is a real gem to visit. Easy trail to enjoy in almost any kind of weather.
Trail conditions & character
“I absolutely love it here, it is absolutely beautiful and you can bike, run, walk, jog or even just sit down and watch all the different birds there are.”
“The only thing though, it would be great irresponsible pet owners to pick up after their dogs so the trails can be poop-free.”
“Great paved trail system into the woods very beautiful preservation”
Plan your run at Hickory Creek Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- 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.
- Websitereconnectwithnature.org
- Phone(815) 727-8700
Running trails near Mokena
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Sharon's Bay Park
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Mokena Main Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 152 reviews
Clean park featuring baseball fields, playgrounds, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts.
Mokena Community Park District
4.5 ★★★★★ 170 reviews
Relaxed area with mature oaks offering outdoor activities, sports and a playground. Picnic tables.
Hibernia Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 121 reviews
Family-friendly neighborhood park featuring a playground, paddle boats, volleyball court and a lake.
Butternut Creek Woods Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 30 reviews
Hickory Creek Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 237 reviews
Sizable space featuring diverse wildlife & plant species, with trails & paved paths open year-round.