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Lakewood Forest Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 460 Google reviews · Running trail in Wauconda, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Lakewood 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.
Preserve offering trails for hiking, horseback riding & winter recreation, plus a dog park & pond.
What runners say about Lakewood Forest Preserve
“A great spot for a walk or bike ride, with newly paved paths as well as well-maintained grassy trails.”
“It is a beautiful and peaceful forest preserve to go for a walk or just sit and take in nature.”
Great forest preserve. I've been going there for a couple of years now and riding my bile on the trail is very relaxing. Highly recommend this park. 🤘🏻🚴🏼🏃🏽🚶🏽
A beautiful forest preserve with packed gravel and paved pathways. Good for running, walking, and biking.
This was my first visit for a 5k. The trail I took was a hilly mix of pavement and crushed gravel. I swear the hills were higher on the way back, but I could just be out of shape. I do plan to come back with my bike and camera. Enjoy!
It was a hot day for a hike when we visited, but we still enjoyed our time at Lakewood. We walked well-maintained trails of pavement and crushed stone. We heard and saw plenty of wild life including birds, ground squirrels, and a deer. I’m definitely interested in returning.
Trail conditions & character
“Some sections are shaded while others are open, offering a variety along the way with nice views.”
“The trail options are just as varied with largely gravel trails but also a few grass paths and what looks to be an older asphalt trail.”
“The trail options are just as varied with largely gravel trails but also a few grass paths and what looks to be an older asphalt trail.”
“The trail I took was a hilly mix of pavement and crushed gravel.”
Plan your run at Lakewood Forest Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- 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.
- Websitelcfpd.org
- Phone(847) 367-6640
Running trails near Wauconda
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Fort Hill Trail
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Wauconda Park District
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Cook Memorial Park
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Ray Lake Forest Preserve
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Natural area with crushed gravel paths for walking, biking, and bird watching.
Heritage Oaks Park
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Large park featuring tennis and basketball courts, pond, and a baseball field, along with playgrounds.
