The best running trails around Long Grove
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Jogging around Long Grove offers extensive trail networks through well-preserved natural landscapes. The region is characterized by numerous forest preserves, woodlands, and river valleys, providing diverse environments for running. Trails often feature a mix of crushed gravel and some paved sections, winding through areas with ponds and natural habitats. This varied terrain makes Long Grove an appealing destination for outdoor exercise.
Best jogging routes around Long Grove
- The most popular jogging route is Des Plaines River Trail, a 2.7…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
runners
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This forest preserve offers a quiet escape from the city with a good selection of trails. All the trails are well marked and well maintained. You can also connect to the Des Plains River Trail to explore further afield.
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Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve opens up to 408 acres with 5.5 miles of gravel trails open to walking, biking, and cross-country skiing along restored prairies, wetlands, and alongside the Buffalo Creek Reservoir.
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MacArthur Woods is a preserved forest that showcases the original landscape of the eastern Des Plaines River Valley. The area features a diverse mix of plants, creating an important habitat for breeding forest birds, including the brown creeper, red-shouldered hawk, broad-winged hawk, veery, pileated woodpecker, and several rare warblers.
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The east half of Deer Grove is dominated by open fields and ponds and makes for a great place to spectate wildlife. There are two loop trails here, one paved (red markings) and one unpaved (brown markings). Both loops are about the same length though they take slightly different routes.
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MacArthur Woods is a preserved forest that showcases the original landscape of the eastern Des Plaines River Valley. The area features a diverse mix of plants, creating an important habitat for breeding forest birds, including the brown creeper, red-shouldered hawk, broad-winged hawk, veery, pileated woodpecker, and several rare warblers.
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Here you will find a gorgeous network of flat, crushed gravel trails that connect with the Des Plaines River Trail and other nearby preserves. The trails take you around scenic ponds, by picnic areas, and through the woods. This is a great place to see birds who use the ponds as migratory stops.
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You can follow the trail for 56 miles along the Des Plaines River with gorgeous views of local preserves, watersheds, forests, and marshes. The trail is wide packed gravel and shared with hikers and the occasional horseback rider. Here your pass through the County Forest Preserve which has its own scenic trail network.
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The Des Plaines River Trail stretches over 56 miles along the Des Plaines River, offering a scenic natural escape through Lake and Cook Counties, just outside Chicago. This multi-use trail features a mix of surfaces, including pavement, crushed stone, and single-track forest paths, making for an exciting and varied biking experience. The northern sections are well-maintained and popular, while the southern portions become narrower and more rugged. This particular portion of the Des Plaines River Trail passes through Half Day Forest Preserve with nice views of the river and several ponds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Long Grove?
Long Grove offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 80 different options recorded on komoot. These routes cater to various fitness levels, from easy jogs to more challenging runs.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Long Grove's running trails?
The running trails in Long Grove feature a diverse mix of surfaces, including crushed gravel and some paved sections. You'll find routes winding through extensive forest preserves, along river valleys, and around scenic ponds, providing a varied and engaging experience.
Are there running routes suitable for beginners in Long Grove?
Yes, Long Grove has several easy running routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Des Plaines River Trail is an easy 2.7-mile path that follows the river, offering a gentle introduction to the area's natural beauty.
What do other runners say about the trails in Long Grove?
The running routes in Long Grove are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 3.0 stars. Over 450 runners have explored these trails, often praising the peaceful atmosphere, natural environments, and well-maintained paths through the forest preserves.
Are there any circular running routes in Long Grove?
Yes, many of Long Grove's running paths are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Deer Grove Red Trail – Deer Grove Paved Loop, which offers a 3.1-mile circular route through the forest preserve.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Long Grove?
Many of the forest preserves and trails in Long Grove are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific preserve rules before you go, but generally, the natural settings are welcoming for runners with their canine companions.
Are there family-friendly running paths in Long Grove?
Absolutely. The trails in Long Grove, particularly those with flatter, crushed gravel surfaces like those found around the Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds, are excellent for family runs. The scenic and peaceful environments make them enjoyable for all ages.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or natural features along the routes?
Long Grove's routes are rich with natural beauty. You can find scenic views along the Des Plaines River Trail, and many routes pass through significant natural features like the MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve or around the Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds. The Independence Grove Lake also offers beautiful lake views.
Are there challenging running routes for experienced runners?
For those seeking a greater challenge, Long Grove offers several difficult routes. The Des Plaines River bridge – Des Plaines River Trail loop from Prairie View is a demanding 26-mile route, providing a significant distance and varied terrain for experienced runners.
What are the options for parking near Long Grove's running trails?
Most forest preserves and trailheads in and around Long Grove offer dedicated parking facilities. For instance, areas like Half Day Forest Preserve and Deer Grove Forest Preserve have convenient parking lots for trail users.
Is public transport available to access the running trails?
While Long Grove is primarily accessed by car, some trailheads, especially those connected to the broader Des Plaines River Trail system, might be reachable via local bus services or regional rail connections to nearby towns. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific access points.
What are the best seasons for jogging in Long Grove?
Long Grove's trails are enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer provides lush greenery and shade in the woodlands, while winter running is possible, though trail conditions may vary with snow and ice.
Are there places to explore or landmarks along the running routes?
Yes, many running routes in Long Grove pass by interesting natural landmarks. You can explore areas like the MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve, known for its diverse plant life and bird habitats, or cross the Des Plaines River bridge, which is a notable feature on several routes.
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