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Wolf Road Woods
4.8 ★★★★★ 432 Google reviews · Running trail in Willow Springs, Illinois · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Wolf Road 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.
Hilly forest preserve offering biking and hiking trails for all levels, plus picnic areas.
What runners say about Wolf Road Woods
“Beautiful area and many trails to explore in the Palos Trail System.”
“Very nice place to trail walk, very peaceful.”
What an amazing set of trails. They are lots of hills and changes in elevation over 150 feet throughout the entire trail system. Great for advanced mountain bikers. Hiking is our favorite thing to do on these trails. The park areas are great for family events.
These woods are beautiful. I park off 107th street and take the uphill trail that runs along where a stream once was. The rocky path is a little challenging for younger people but it is great short hike. Getting to visit where reactor piles are buried is excellent.
Always a great walk/jog in any direction and all seasons just be mindful and careful around with cyclist\bike riders as they should as well! I love to take photos and go for long walks outdoors and this is one of my favorite places around, enjoy!
Wonderful hiking and mountain biking trails. Feels like you're out in.the country, even though suburbs are all around.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful area and many trails to explore in the Palos Trail System.”
“Parking was very easy around 10am on a Saturday in November, but there were several other lots along the way as well.”
“They are lots of hills and changes in elevation over 150 feet throughout the entire trail system.”
“Very nice place to trail walk, very peaceful.”
“The rocky path is a little challenging for younger people but it is great short hike.”
Plan your run at Wolf Road Woods
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- 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
Running trails near Willow Springs
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Red Gate Woods
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History-rich outdoor area where the world's 1st nuclear reactor was once built. Also features miles of trails for mountain biking, hiking and running.
Maple Lake East - Mountain Bike Staging Area
4.8 ★★★★★ 202 reviews
Large preserve featuring a lake for activities and picnic areas, along with biking and walking trails.
Pioneer Woods
4.6 ★★★★★ 176 reviews
Large wooded preserve with picnic groves & trails for hiking & mountain biking.