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Thatcher Woods
4.7 ★★★★★ 753 Google reviews · Running trail in Maywood, 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 Thatcher 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.
245 acres of floodplain woodlands with a natural history museum & an unmarked trail system.
What runners say about Thatcher Woods
“Beautiful scenery, nature all around, and so much fun to be had in the open fields all around the forest preserve.”
“Thatcher Woods is a beautiful parcel of CC Forest Preserve running along a quiet segment of the Des Plaines River.”
Probably one of the most amazing places to visit and stay for awhile around here. Beautiful scenery, nature all around, and so much fun to be had in the open fields all around the forest preserve. Not only that, but the trails that lead through these woods are long and enjoyable to ride through .
A peaceful trail, perfect to take a walk and to get away from life’s stresses. Thatcher Woods are perfect to birdwatching and taking pictures of the calm scenery.
Keep in mind I only went for the forest reserve, I didn't have to pay anything because I didn't hold an event here. If you plan to, I would contact the Parks and rec department. But I did have a fantastic 3 hour walk around the woods. Quiet, uncrowded, beautiful fall foliage, cool little railroad track in the woods...
A great place for a walk,/og. This place is beautiful especially in the fall when the leaves change Colors. Plenty of Parking unless they have soccer practice but it doesn't get too crowded. Finally, I feel safe coming to this place.
Trail conditions & character
“Picnic tables by the pond are great for enjoying the view while relaxing, Trailside Nature Museum is great to take kids.”
“Thatcher Woods is a beautiful parcel of CC Forest Preserve running along a quiet segment of the Des Plaines River.”
“Plenty of Parking unless they have soccer practice but it doesn't get too crowded.”
Plan your run at Thatcher Woods
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, restrooms — 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.
- Websitefpdcc.com
- Phone(800) 870-3666
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–6 PM |
Running trails near Maywood
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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