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Turnbull Woods
4.5 ★★★★★ 52 Google reviews · Running trail in Glencoe, 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 Turnbull 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.
Small recreation area featuring trails for hiking and biking, plus a picnic pavilion.
What runners say about Turnbull Woods
“Fairly well maintained area that is adjacent to the Chicago botanic gardens The trails are pretty well kept”
“Very pretty woods in and around an upscale neighborhood with a wide variety of beautiful and interesting homes.”
“If you like something quiet and a bit off the beaten path you will love this little spot.”
If you like something quiet and a bit off the beaten path you will love this little spot. I was driving aimlessly looking for a cheap adventure. My eye went to the beautiful fall colors and I pulled over. So glad I did. It was a small , peaceful forest with one pavillon that I could see. I was the only one there.
You can park here to avoid paying the $30 parking for the botanical gardens. It's about a 20 minute walk from here to the gardens. You're not allowed to park there for ravinia concerts though.
Quiet, natural, and refreshingly untouched. Turnbull Woods feels more like a small nature preserve than a city park, with winding paths, tall grasses, and a sense of real escape. It is not manicured or showy, which is exactly the appeal.
Good place to park for free if you want a long walk into the Chicago Botanical gardens.
Trail conditions & character
“Very pretty woods in and around an upscale neighborhood with a wide variety of beautiful and interesting homes.”
“If you like something quiet and a bit off the beaten path you will love this little spot.”
“You can park here to avoid paying the $30 parking for the botanical gardens.”
Plan your run at Turnbull 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.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitefpdcc.com
- Phone+1 800-870-3666
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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