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Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 993 Google reviews · Running trail in Wadsworth, Illinois · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Loop distance
- 2.5 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Van Patten Woods Forest 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.
Serene, lakeside park with hiking, cycling, horseback & cross-country ski trails, plus boat launch.
What runners say about Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve
“Sterling lake is so clean you can observe natural aquatic plant life sprinkled with the brilliant pan fish of North America.”
“It is a beautiful reserve area that has bathrooms, a nice storm shelter/Pavillion, plenty of parking, and a nice lake area where we saw some white cranes while driving around it.”
“Beautiful site to see nice little walk not a lot of people there and a beautiful view of the lake very peaceful.”
Lots of areas to hike and do activities. Some trails are next to noisy roads but most are quiet. Something for everyone -woods, prairie, ponds.
It’s a special place. I have videos on my iphone of Canadian Geese flying in v formations overhead at a truly breathtaking angle that I cherish and watch all the time, The majesty of field sized v formations of geese overhead while beavers swim from their dams is a moment I’ve experienced.
A well kept place to walk, fish, relax. Public restrooms conveniently located. Several parking lots to choose from. There are benches spread out to rest on or watch birds if that's your kind of thing. Came across a lady taking a stroll with her horse, that's just awesome 😍. Update: I still love this place.
Absolutely beautiful and peaceful woods for hiking! Very accessible for anyone, as it is flat with a very wide crushed gravel trail. The old oak trees were very majestic with a cute bridge and river views.
Trail conditions & character
“It is a beautiful reserve area that has bathrooms, a nice storm shelter/Pavillion, plenty of parking, and a nice lake area where we saw some white cranes while driving around it.”
“It is a beautiful reserve area that has bathrooms, a nice storm shelter/Pavillion, plenty of parking, and a nice lake area where we saw some white cranes while driving around it.”
“It is a beautiful reserve area that has bathrooms, a nice storm shelter/Pavillion, plenty of parking, and a nice lake area where we saw some white cranes while driving around it.”
“There is a leash law so you do need to keep dogs leashed supposedly.”
“Beautiful site to see nice little walk not a lot of people there and a beautiful view of the lake very peaceful.”
“Super sized forest preserve, from the wide gravel paths to the clearings available for fishing/picnicking.”
“5 mile Blue Loop is a great trail that circles the lake - connects to Des Plaines River Trail if you need more miles.”
Plan your run at Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceCrushed gravel — the rail-trail classic: softer than asphalt, still smooth enough for tempo work
- Loop distance2.5 mi back to where you parked
- 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.
- Websitelcfpd.org
- Phone+1 847-367-6640
Running trails near Wadsworth
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway
4.8 ★★★★★ 112 reviews
Scenic gravel route, featuring a lake, popular for hiking, biking and running.
Sterling Lake
4.7 ★★★★★ 87 reviews
Popular lake surrounded by a park with trails, fishing and wildlife viewing.
Pine Dunes Forest Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 183 reviews
Tranquil, 2.2-mile nature trail for hiking, dog walking, bird-watching, running and biking, with ponds and wetland views.
Prairie Springs Park
4.9 ★★★★★ 7 reviews
Hackbarth & Ponderosa Pit Trail System
4.6 ★★★★★ 42 reviews
Kid-friendly hiking area featuring trails in a picturesque forest.
