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Mallard Lake Forest Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,542 Google reviews · Running trail in Hanover Park, Illinois · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- 4 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Mallard Lake 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.
948-acre park with a large lake, forests & wetlands, popular for boating, fishing & hiking.
What runners say about Mallard Lake Forest Preserve
“The water is super clean in most parts, and you can see the fish clearly, which makes it extra exciting for kids.”
“The trail system is fantastic, featuring scenic gravel paths, great bridges, and a beautiful boardwalk that is incredible for birdwatching and hiking.”
“The 85-acre lake is perfect for a peaceful day of fishing, and it is one of the best local spots for non-powered boating, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.”
Wow such a beautiful park! Nice walking trails around the lake. It’s absolutely beautiful in the evening with the sunset. Lots of wildlife including birds, turtles, etc…nice getaway from the city life. Lots of parking. Great place to hike and bike. There is a dock for fishing too. Trails are well maintained.
A beautiful park and forest preserve with very nice paths for walking / running / biking. They have port-o-potties for use and some covered seating areas. They have benches in the area as well. It's a popular spot for anglers, and I would definitely recommend a visit.
Beautiful Forest Preserve featuring a trail that goes around the lake and a boardwalk. Very easy trail and tons of scenic view points.
Mallard Lake Forest Preserve is an absolute hidden gem for outdoor lovers! The 85-acre lake is perfect for a peaceful day of fishing, and it is one of the best local spots for non-powered boating, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.
Trail conditions & character
“The trail system is fantastic, featuring scenic gravel paths, great bridges, and a beautiful boardwalk that is incredible for birdwatching and hiking.”
“The 85-acre lake is perfect for a peaceful day of fishing, and it is one of the best local spots for non-powered boating, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.”
“I love that it has actual bathrooms and not just a porta potty.”
“There's ample parking, doesn't get too crowded, so you can walk/jog/run in peace around the lake, relax, and enjoy beautiful nature.”
“The trail system is fantastic, featuring scenic gravel paths, great bridges, and a beautiful boardwalk that is incredible for birdwatching and hiking.”
“The trail system is fantastic, featuring scenic gravel paths, great bridges, and a beautiful boardwalk that is incredible for birdwatching and hiking.”
Plan your run at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Distance4 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitedupageforest.com
- Phone(630) 933-7248
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM–8:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 7 AM–8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM–8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM–8:30 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM–8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM–8:30 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM–8:30 PM |
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