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McKinley Woods
4.7 ★★★★★ 323 Google reviews · Running trail in Channahon, Illinois · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from McKinley Woods' 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.
What runners say about McKinley Woods
“One of the standout features of the Upland Trail entrance is the presence of a well-maintained restroom facility.”
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Peaceful Trails and Beautiful Nature McKinley Woods is one of those hidden gems that makes you appreciate how close nature really is.”
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Peaceful Trails and Beautiful Nature McKinley Woods is one of those hidden gems that makes you appreciate how close nature really is.”
Beautiful preserve with trails at different difficulty levels. Take a stroll along the water or an elevated hike in the woods. Lots of flowers, animals, and birds.
The Upland Trail entrance in McKinley Woods is an exceptional starting point for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As I arrived at the trailhead, I was impressed by the wealth of information available, providing insights into the history and significance of the area.
McKinley Woods in Channahon is a great spot to unwind and enjoy nature. It’s located right along the Des Plaines River and offers well-maintained trails that are easy to walk. The paths wind through shaded woods and open sunny areas, and you might even catch a glimpse of deer or hear birds as you go.
Great place to hike. If you go in the fall. You pretty much will have the whole place to yourself like I did! The boys had a great time exploring off the beaten path. Venture into the woods
Trail conditions & character
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Peaceful Trails and Beautiful Nature McKinley Woods is one of those hidden gems that makes you appreciate how close nature really is.”
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Peaceful Trails and Beautiful Nature McKinley Woods is one of those hidden gems that makes you appreciate how close nature really is.”
“There is a very Steep Hill that you will have to walk down and back up if parked at the top parking.”
“As I arrived at the trailhead, I was impressed by the wealth of information available, providing insights into the history and significance of the area.”
“There are paved and dirt trails, multiple grills and picnic tables, and the pavilion has two big fireplaces.”
“One of the standout features of the Upland Trail entrance is the presence of a well-maintained restroom facility.”
“Nice gravel trails for walking and maybe biking with a mountain bike, not a road bike since as I said they are mostly gravel.”
“Can go off-path into the woods on a dirt path for elevation gain and lovely scenery.”
Plan your run at McKinley Woods
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
- 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 trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitereconnectwithnature.org
- Phone(815) 727-8700
Hours
| Monday | 8 AM–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–9 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–9 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–9 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–9 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–9 PM |
Running trails near Channahon
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Will County Forest
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I&M Canal State Trail Access
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Arroyo Trails
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Playground for kids and adults, along with picnic tables and a creek at this scenic trail for hiking, with wood bridges.
Channahon State Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 722 reviews
Historic canal views, a restored locktender's house & tours, plus trails, fishing & canoeing.
