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Lakefront Trail - North Trailhead - Ardmore Ave - 5800 N
4.8 ★★★★★ 338 Google reviews · Running trail in Chicago, Illinois · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Lakefront Trail - North Trailhead - Ardmore Ave - 5800 N'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.
Cycling lanes, picnic areas, and a beach highlight this park featuring a lake for swimming and kid-friendly hikes.
What runners say about Lakefront Trail - North Trailhead - Ardmore Ave - 5800 N
“It’s easily accessible and offers stunning views of the beach and Lake Michigan, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous jog.”
“The well-maintained path is wide and accommodating for both walkers and cyclists, and the serene atmosphere along the water’s edge is truly refreshing.”
My favorite place in summer to ride bicycle or walk. So many beautiful places, fun n view. Can't wait for summer to hang around.
This has to be one of the best places to run and not worry about traffic lights or cars. I was in town last weekend and ran the 3 mornings that I was there. The weather was perfect for February. I was in town this past August and ran the trail twice, a total of 8 miles each time.
Beautiful trail for a run, walk or bike ride. The lake is so peaceful despite the craziness of the city right next to it.
Very much enjoyed the recently improved trail. The trail is wide and mostly smooth through its 18 mile trek along the shore front. What I love is the dedicated bike lanes, which separate pedestrian traffic from cycle traffic. Great views and nice overall experience.
Trail conditions & character
“It’s easily accessible and offers stunning views of the beach and Lake Michigan, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous jog.”
“The well-maintained path is wide and accommodating for both walkers and cyclists, and the serene atmosphere along the water’s edge is truly refreshing.”
“There are many small restaurants and restrooms along the way.”
Plan your run at Lakefront Trail - North Trailhead - Ardmore Ave - 5800 N
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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 trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- Websitechicagoparkdistrict.com
- Phone+1 312-414-1313
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
Running trails near Chicago
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Lakefront Trail Northern Entrance
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South Boulevard Park
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Park featuring a beach and a public restroom, popular for sunrise views.
Horner (Henry) Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 1,744 reviews
Sizable park with playgrounds, multiple athletic fields, community events & cultural programming.
Garden Park
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City park offering a playground, picnic areas, and walking paths, plus beach access.
Lincolnwood Centennial Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 125 reviews
Recreational green space offering a disc-golf course, walking paths & creative, modern sculptures.