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James P. Covell Nature Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 48 Google reviews · Running trail in Auburn, Indiana · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from James P. Covell 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.
Wooded nature preserve featuring an easy-to-navigate trail along a creek and river.
What runners say about James P. Covell Nature Preserve
“The trail is beautiful and easy to navigate for an easy walk.”
“But the path is clear and easy to follow and walks alongside the creek for a small stretch with a path to the waters edge.”
“The trail is beautiful and easy to navigate for an easy walk.”
Small woods by Cedar Creek with a nice path. Only real negative is the frequent sound of gun shots from the nearby shooting range. May be a problem for some sensitive dogs.
Great little side stop, short hike across a field of rye and beans. Leads to a trail through some really old growth trees to a river. Gravel parking for maybe 10 cars.
What a lovely walking trail! It took us about an hour to hike with kids. It isn't very stroller friendly, but it can be done. 😂 The trail loops around in a circle around a field and you can take a loop off that which takes you in the woods. On that woods loop, there are 2 entries to walk down to the river.
Excellent 3/4 mile trail for a stroll in the woods. Trees, creek, nature.
Trail conditions & character
“The trail is beautiful and easy to navigate for an easy walk.”
“😂 The trail loops around in a circle around a field and you can take a loop off that which takes you in the woods.”
Plan your run at James P. Covell Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- 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.
- Websiteacreslandtrust.org
- Phone+1 260-637-2273
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–9 pm |
Running trails near Auburn
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Eckhart Park
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Big old trees, a creek and a playground are among the attractions at this well-kept public park.
Greenhurst Commons - ACRES Land Trust
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Rieke Park
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Tom & Jane Dustin, Robert and Rosella C. Johnson, Whitehurst Nature Preserves
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Bicentennial Woods - ACRES Land Trust
4.8 ★★★★★ 382 reviews
Park featuring winding trails through woods and fields, many leading to creeks, steps and hills.