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Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center
4.8 ★★★★★ 746 Google reviews · Running trail in Springfield, Illinois · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center'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.
100-acre woodland & prairie garden honoring Abraham Lincoln, with trails, bridges & a pond.
What runners say about Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center
“The paths are well maintained, cleared, trails clearly marked, woods well managed, lots of small wildlife, AND they offer quick educational classes for children and adults.”
“What a beautiful memorial, beautiful top to bottom, every tree every flower, the water and the wind, every trail and every name.”
“Lincoln Memorial Garden: A Local's Take You know, if you're looking for a really peaceful escape right here in Springfield, the Lincoln Memorial Garden is just wonderful.”
“If you like to walk some easy trails while enjoying nature, this place needs to be on your list.”
Choice place to take a walk in natural surroundings. Right by a lake with both sidewalk and nature trails cushioned with wood chips. Saw a deer, squirrels, a hawk, many different types of mushrooms, and amazing wildflowers. Very relaxing place for walking or taking a break on one of the many beaches.
Lincoln Memorial Garden: A Local's Take You know, if you're looking for a really peaceful escape right here in Springfield, the Lincoln Memorial Garden is just wonderful. Honestly, the trails are fantastic.
What a beautiful memorial, beautiful top to bottom, every tree every flower, the water and the wind, every trail and every name. Susan was delightful at the visitor center, offering a plethora of information and direction. The Troll artwork on display is every bit of magic to go hand in hand with the magic of the land.
I went here on a Sunday afternoon in late June. I was seeking some quiet and nature. The trees and plants were abundant and grown out. It felt very natural and not overly maintained. I walked along the lake shore trail. I enjoyed the sayings on the benches. There weren't many people. The parking was on a busy road.
Trail conditions & character
“What a beautiful memorial, beautiful top to bottom, every tree every flower, the water and the wind, every trail and every name.”
“Lincoln Memorial Garden: A Local's Take You know, if you're looking for a really peaceful escape right here in Springfield, the Lincoln Memorial Garden is just wonderful.”
“Many of these trails, while not fully accessible for those woth disabilities, have paths that do allow those with limited abilities access to nature.”
Plan your run at Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center
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.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitelincolnmemorialgarden.org
- Phone+1 217-529-1111
- Social Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 8 am–4 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–4 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–4 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–4 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–4 pm |
| Sunday | 1–4 pm |
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