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Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 68 Google reviews · Running trail in Willow Springs, 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 Paw Paw Woods Nature 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.
What runners say about Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve
“Beautiful place and quiet to reflect on memories, or just enjoy the wildlife”
“Hike the Purple Trail for solitude, beauty, and being in a quiet, wooded area.”
It has awesome trails! Most are for bikers, so be prepared to pay attention and move off the path when necessary. It's a great hike, but make sure you have a map or at least some water because some of the trails are long and there's lots of twists and turns that can get you turned around...
Hike the Purple Trail for solitude, beauty, and being in a quiet, wooded area.
Trail conditions & character
“Hike the Purple Trail for solitude, beauty, and being in a quiet, wooded area.”
Plan your run at Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve
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.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitefpdcc.com
- Phone+1 800-870-3666
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Willow Springs
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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Red Gate Woods
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History-rich outdoor area where the world's 1st nuclear reactor was once built. Also features miles of trails for mountain biking, hiking and running.
Columbia Woods
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Peaceful, dog-friendly wooded area with a riverbank for anglers, as well as bike trails.
