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Pere Marquette State Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,099 Google reviews · Running trail in Grafton, Illinois · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Pere Marquette State Park'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.
Lodge & 8,000-acre nature area for water & winter sports, birding, hunting, riding & camping.
What runners say about Pere Marquette State Park
“The trails up around Scenic Road were mostly well maintained, and the hikes, enjoyable.”
“The scenic overlooks are best in spring when all the trees are bright green or in fall with the changing foliage but are still breathtaking no matter the season.”
“Whether you enjoy hiking, camping, hunting, or simply taking a peaceful walk, there’s something for everyone.”
The lodge and cabins here are top-notch. I love the huge chess pieces near the fireplace in the lodge. Years ago, I enjoyed hiking trails here. The views are breathtaking as the Illinois River is basically across the street. The limestone bluffs add to the attraction. The restaurant has affordable, quality selections.
While we were here, it was >90 degrees every day and >80% humidity. That meant we were active outside in the morning. The trails up around Scenic Road were mostly well maintained, and the hikes, enjoyable. The views from the lookouts were very pretty. We stayed at the lodge.
This is such a beautiful state park. It is free to enter and to drive around the scenic loop to see all the beautiful overlooks. The Inn is very impressive as far as state park standards go.
Wow! What an amazing place! There’s honestly not much to complain about here; this place is absolutely beautiful. Whether you enjoy hiking, camping, hunting, or simply taking a peaceful walk, there’s something for everyone. The area was clean, well-maintained, and the people were friendly and welcoming.
Trail conditions & character
“The scenic overlooks are best in spring when all the trees are bright green or in fall with the changing foliage but are still breathtaking no matter the season.”
“Whether you enjoy hiking, camping, hunting, or simply taking a peaceful walk, there’s something for everyone.”
Plan your run at Pere Marquette State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitednr.illinois.gov
- Phone+1 618-786-3323
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–3:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–3:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–3:30 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–3:30 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–3:30 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–3:30 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
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