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The Nature Institute
4.7 ★★★★★ 105 Google reviews · Running trail in Godfrey, Illinois · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from The Nature Institute'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 The Nature Institute
“The property is beautiful and the activities were great for our 3 and 5 years old girls.”
“Well marked trails for all levels of hikers.”
“Well marked trails for all levels of hikers.”
Great people work here. Chris and Angela were terrific. They take obvious pride and dedication in their work. They took time out for my Son and I unsolicited. We truly appreciate you taking the time to educate and show us around! We were lucky enough to encounter a Great Barred Owl as well as a Pileated Woodpecker.
Beautiful wooded trails with lots of birds and wildlife. Well marked trails for all levels of hikers. Friendly informative staff.
The Nature Institute, affectionately known as TNI, is a beloved place in our family! As a child my brothers and I all attended TNI discovery camp and to this day all have epic memories and it fostered such a love of the outdoors for us!
Our family loves The Nature Institute. The Eco Homeschool kids programs are amazing. You can tell the owners love to pass on their knowledge about nature to kids. The programs are good for all ages. The hiking trails are also really great. We have hiked most of the trails.
Trail conditions & character
“I hiked the trails and spend lots of time meditating at the creek and playing around the waterfall.”
“I also love that they have some paved trails for when I'm babysitting and pushing a stroller.”
Plan your run at The Nature Institute
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- 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.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitethenatureinstitute.org
- Phone(618) 466-9930
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM–7:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 7 AM–7:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM–7:30 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM–7:30 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM–7:30 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM–7:30 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM–7:30 PM |
Running trails near Godfrey
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
John M Olin Nature Preserve (Nature Institute)
4.7 ★★★★★ 329 reviews
Steep limestone bluffs, sinkholes, and other karst formations are highlights of this preserve with varied hiking trails.
La Vista Park
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Dog-friendly park featuring an 18-hole disc golf course, plus paved and dirt trails.
Clifton Terrace Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 182 reviews
Recreational area featuring picnic areas, a playground and scenic views of the river.
Robert E Glazebrook Community Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 484 reviews
140-acre community park with walking trails, ponds & soccer fields, plus playgrounds & a gazebo.