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McKee Marsh at Blackwell Forest Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 45 Google reviews · Running trail in Warrenville, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Loop distance
- 7 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from McKee Marsh at Blackwell 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.
Nature preserve featuring scenic trails for walking, biking, and jogging.
What runners say about McKee Marsh at Blackwell Forest Preserve
“Two outlook platforms stand on opposite sides of the marsh, and each provides a beautiful view, and there is a nice balance of forested areas and open areas over grounds.”
“It's also nice that path goes all the way around the preserve, making it a great place to come for a walk/run or bike ride.”
“Then you may journey on to one of the many hiking paths that all revolve around a giant; very peaceful and succulded marsh.”
I visited this park this afternoon and was it beautiful. There was to start a lovely picinic area to begin your afternoon excursion. Then you may journey on to one of the many hiking paths that all revolve around a giant; very peaceful and succulded marsh. The park waste free. Great quiet tranquil place.
This preserve is a complete delight! The path curves enough so that there is always a new vista. Two outlook platforms stand on opposite sides of the marsh, and each provides a beautiful view, and there is a nice balance of forested areas and open areas over grounds.
Premium little loop. Partly wooded-with a secondary trail along the river- partly gently rolling prairie. Several overlook platforms around the actual marsh, plus a more intimate viewing bunker. I really rather enjoy doing the loop. Never really gets old
My FAVORITE loop to jog. Come all the way from Chicago to enjoy this trail. Will post some videos I recorded while running here when I get a chance. Wish this trail was closer as it is an excellent place for running and to enjoy nature.
Trail conditions & character
“Two outlook platforms stand on opposite sides of the marsh, and each provides a beautiful view, and there is a nice balance of forested areas and open areas over grounds.”
“The majority of paths are limestone, and I once took my mother around the under 3-mile loop in a wheel chair.”
“Then you may journey on to one of the many hiking paths that all revolve around a giant; very peaceful and succulded marsh.”
“5 miles of well-maintained gravel track and you can connect it with other trails in Blackwell for a longer route too.”
“5 miles of well-maintained gravel track and you can connect it with other trails in Blackwell for a longer route too.”
Plan your run at McKee Marsh at Blackwell Forest Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceCrushed gravel — the rail-trail classic: softer than asphalt, still smooth enough for tempo work
- Loop distance7 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitedupageforest.org
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Warrenville
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Blackwell Forest Preserve
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Warrenville Grove
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St. James Farm Forest Preserve
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