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Summit

The best running trails around Summit

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated June 4, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Summit, you know how quickly the options can become overwhelming. With so many parks and trails, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the good stuff, not endless scrolling.

That's exactly why we've put together this guide. Our komoot community has mapped, run, and reviewed countless routes here, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best. Consider this your shortcut to discovering Summit's real jogging gems, saving you the guesswork and getting you straight to the trails that deliver.

Jogging in Summit is a fantastic mix, offering everything from urban loops to peaceful creek-side paths and wooded trails. The terrain is generally quite forgiving, with relatively flat sections and minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for many. What makes it special is this blend of accessible city parks and more extensive natural areas nearby, ensuring there's a route for every mood and fitness level. Plus, with Summit's temperate climate, you can enjoy these routes comfortably year-round.

If you only have time for one, we'd point you straight to the Salt Creek Trail, a moderate 5.8 miles (9.4 km) route that’s a local favorite for its consistent path alongside the creek. For something a bit shorter and through the woods, the easy Spears Woods loop via Palos Black Unpaved Spur Trail at 2.0 miles (3.2 km) is a great choice. With more than 200 runners already exploring Summit with komoot, you're in good company. Dive in and find your next favorite route!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Salt Creek Trail
  2. 2

    Chicago Midway International Airport loop
  3. 3

    Spears Woods loop via Palos Black Unpaved Spur Trail

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Salt Creek Trail

9.36 km

10 m

Moderate

Chicago Midway International Airport loop

7.67 km

0 m

Moderate

Spears Woods loop via Palos Black Unpaved Spur Trail

3.17 km

20 m

Easy

Running loop from West Elsdon

9.85 km

10 m

Moderate

Running loop from Chicago Midway International Airport

6.48 km

10 m

Moderate

La Grange Park Woods loop from La Grange

9.50 km

30 m

Moderate

John Husar I&M Canal loop from Willow Springs

6.63 km

0 m

Moderate

La Grange Park Woods – Salt Creek loop from La Grange

10.5 km

20 m

Moderate

Columbia Woods – Centennial Trail loop from Willow Springs

19.1 km

30 m

Hard

Running loop from North Riverside

3.04 km

0 m

Easy

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1.

Salt Creek Trail

9.36km

00:58

10m

10m

The Salt Creek Trail in the Chicago suburbs offers a delightful mix of paved and crushed limestone paths, guiding you through serene forest preserves like Brookfield Woods and Brezina Woods. You'll jog alongside Salt Creek, enjoying views of wetlands and riparian forests, with good chances for wildlife sightings, including deer. It's a generally easy to intermediate route, perfect for a relaxing run.

This trail is highly accessible, forming a key link in a larger regional network. While it boasts long stretches without road crossings, be aware that some street crossings might lack traffic lights. You can find various entry points along its length, making it convenient to start your 5.8-mile (9.4 km) jogging adventure, which typically takes about 57 minutes with its minimal 32 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain.

Beyond being a pleasant jogging path, the Salt Creek Trail connects to other walking trails and picnic groves, offering more options for outdoor activity. Its winding course through diverse natural areas like prairie preserves makes it a notable spot for experiencing nature within the suburban landscape, suitable for a moderate workout or a leisurely exploration.

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2.

Chicago Midway International Airport loop

7.67km

00:47

0m

0m

For a jogging experience unlike any other, the Chicago Midway International Airport loop offers a front-row seat to aviation. This 4.8-mile (7.7 km) route is almost entirely flat, with only 13 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, making it an easy workout that takes about 47 minutes. You'll find yourself on paved and asphalt surfaces, circling the active airport and enjoying close-up views of planes taking off and landing, a truly engaging blend of urban energy and spectacle.

This moderate jogging loop is highly accessible and suitable for nearly all skill levels, from casual walkers to those seeking a light run. Its convenient location near Chicago Midway International Airport makes it an easy choice for a quick, distinctive outing. The trail's flat nature means you won't encounter significant inclines, making it ideal for a comfortable pace.

The unique selling point of this route is its direct proximity to an active international airport, providing an unusual backdrop for your run or walk. It's a popular choice for those seeking a moderate workout combined with cool views of planes, setting it apart from more traditional running trails near Chicago Midway Airport.

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3.

Spears Woods loop via Palos Black Unpaved Spur Trail

3.17km

00:21

20m

20m

This easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) loop, with a minimal 51 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, can be comfortably jogged in about 20 minutes, offering a quick and accessible outdoor experience. The Spears Woods loop via Palos Black Unpaved Spur Trail guides you through a delightful mix of sun-dappled open woodlands and expansive prairies. You'll traverse unpaved paths with gently rolling hills, a characteristic feature of the area's glacial moraine topography. Keep an eye out for the charmingly named sloughs, such as Boomerang, Hogwash, and Pollywog, which add to the natural beauty and provide opportunities for birdwatching.

As part of the extensive Palos Preserves system, this route is easily accessible for a quick outing. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the area is well-equipped for visitors. It's an excellent choice for a leisurely jog, especially during spring when wildflowers are in bloom or in autumn for stunning fall colors. The trail's easy difficulty makes it suitable for most fitness levels looking for a short, refreshing escape.

Spears Woods itself is a 477-acre gem within the 15,000-acre Palos Preserves, showcasing diverse ecosystems from oak groves to savannas and wetlands. Extensive ecological restoration efforts have enhanced these natural areas, making it a prime spot for observing local flora and fauna. The trail also connects to a broader network of unpaved paths, offering options for longer explorations if you wish to extend your run beyond this specific loop.

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4.

Running loop from West Elsdon

9.85km

01:01

10m

10m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.

Running loop from Chicago Midway International Airport

6.48km

00:40

10m

10m

If you're seeking a running experience that's anything but ordinary, the Running loop from Chicago Midway International Airport delivers. This 4.0-mile (6.5 km) route offers a unique urban backdrop, allowing you to watch planes take off and land as you jog. The paved, largely flat terrain makes for a smooth run, providing a moderate challenge for joggers and an easy walk for others, all while offering unparalleled views of airport activity.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as this accessible route requires no permits or fees. While you can enjoy this loop year-round, spring and fall provide the most pleasant temperatures for your workout. It's a great option for those staying at hotels near Chicago Midway Airport or looking for easy running loops near Chicago Midway Airport.

What truly sets this route apart is the opportunity to combine your workout with aviation interest, making it one of the best running loops Chicago Midway has to offer for plane enthusiasts. While the scenery is distinctly urban, it provides a dynamic outdoor experience. For those craving more natural surroundings, nearby Marquette Park offers a different kind of beauty.

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6.

La Grange Park Woods loop from La Grange

9.50km

01:01

30m

30m

The La Grange Park Woods loop offers a delightful jogging experience through varied terrain, winding past lush woodlands and alongside the tranquil Salt Creek. You'll encounter a mix of paved, crushed gravel, and dirt paths, providing diverse surfaces for your run. The natural setting is perfect for those who enjoy birding and wildlife spotting, making it a peaceful escape from urban life.

This moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) route features a gentle 87 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for most fitness levels and typically taking about 1 hour to complete. Ample parking is available, and the trail is well-suited for a refreshing run during the cooler parts of the day. It's a great option for a consistent workout without significant logistical hurdles.

Part of the larger Salt Creek Greenway Trail system, this loop connects to an extensive network of nearly 25 miles, offering possibilities for longer runs if you wish to explore further. The area, including Brezina Woods, is recognized as a migratory corridor, adding to its ecological significance and providing a unique natural immersion close to La Grange.

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7.

John Husar I&M Canal loop from Willow Springs

6.63km

00:41

0m

0m

The John Husar I&M Canal loop in Willow Springs offers a serene and accessible jogging experience, winding along the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. This paved, mostly flat route takes you through preserved forest, providing ample shade and a smooth surface underfoot. It's a moderate 4.1-mile (6.6 km) loop with a mere 4 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 40 minutes to complete, making it an excellent choice for a consistent, enjoyable run.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is known for its year-round accessibility, often being one of the first in the area to be free of snow and ice in early spring. Dogs are permitted on a leash, and there's convenient parking at the John Husar I&M Canal loop trailhead Willow Springs. The trail also connects to the Centennial Trail, opening up possibilities for longer runs on other trail systems.

This trail holds historical significance as the northernmost developed section of the Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor, a historic waterway. Named after John Husar, a long-time outdoors columnist for the Chicago Tribune, it's one of the popular jogging routes I&M Canal Willow Springs has to offer, suitable for all skill levels and a great option for family activities.

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10.

Running loop from North Riverside

3.04km

00:19

0m

0m

This easy 1.9-mile (3.0 km) running loop from North Riverside offers a refreshing escape into nature, perfect for a quick workout or a leisurely stroll. You'll find yourself jogging through pleasant wooded sections and alongside Salt Creek, with varied natural elements like prairies and wetlands providing a scenic backdrop. With only 10 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, it's a consistently flat and smooth experience, ideal for all fitness levels.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this 18-minute route. The village of North Riverside, designed as a National Historic Landscape District, is pedestrian-friendly, making access easy. Parking is typically available in the area, and the trail is suitable for a run at any time of day, though early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and softer light.

What makes this route stand out among jogging routes in North Riverside, Illinois, is its accessibility and the thoughtful design of its surroundings. The area's commitment to a pedestrian-friendly environment, combined with the natural beauty of its woodlands and riverside paths, creates a welcoming space for outdoor activity. It's a great option if you're looking for a short, easy, circular running route.

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Tips from the Community

Jamie S.
December 18, 2024, Chicago Midway International Airport

Chicago Midway International Airport features an approximately 4.5-mile path that circles the airport's perimeter. This route is popular among joggers, walkers, and cyclists for its flat terrain and cool views of planes; it provides a close-up view of the airport's operations, including airplanes taking off and landing.

0

0

Brookfield Woods outside of Chicago is a serene nature reserve with winding trails, diverse flora, and wildlife. This wooded haven provides a peaceful escape for local.

0

0

Matthew
January 24, 2024, Salt Creek

The Salt Creek Greenway (Red Paved Trail) follows Salt Creek for a handful of miles. The creek, itself, is prone to flooding after big rainy days, but it's also a cool riparian environment home to a bunch of different plants and animals.

0

0

Founded in 1927, Midway functioned as Chicago's primary airport until O'Hare International Airport's inauguration in 1944. Engage in an active loop around Chicago Midway International Airport, blending urban energy with the exhilaration of watching planes take off.

0

0

oliviakellis
December 31, 2023, Brookfield Woods

Brookfield Woods outside of Chicago is a serene nature reserve with winding trails, diverse flora, and wildlife. This wooded haven provides a peaceful escape for locals and nature enthusiasts alike.

1

0

oliviakellis
December 15, 2023, Brezina Woods

Brezina Woods beckons with a captivating 7-mile paved journey along the Salt Creek Greenway Trail.

0

0

oliviakellis
December 11, 2023, Spears Woods

Step into the rejuvenated landscape of Spear Woods, a 470-acre sanctuary that underwent extensive ecological restoration. With oak woodlands, savannas, prairies, and diverse habitats, it's a captivating mosaic.

0

0

Matthew
November 26, 2023, Salt Creek

The Salt Creek Greenway (Red Paved Trail) follows Salt Creek for a handful of miles. The creek, itself, is prone to flooding after big rainy days, but it's also a cool riparian environment home to a bunch of different plants and animals.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many running routes are available in Summit?

Summit offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 19 routes documented on komoot. These include options for all skill levels, from easy paths to more challenging trails.

What do other runners say about the trails in Summit?

The running routes in Summit are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. Runners often praise the varied scenery, including creek-side paths and wooded sections, as well as the relatively flat terrain that makes many routes accessible.

Are there easy running paths for beginners in Summit?

Yes, Summit has several easy running paths suitable for beginners. For example, the Spears Woods loop via Palos Black Unpaved Spur Trail is an easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) route through wooded areas, perfect for a gentle run.

What about more challenging routes for experienced runners?

While Summit's terrain is generally flat, there are routes that offer a moderate challenge due to their length. Most of the 14 moderate routes provide consistent paths for longer runs. There is also 1 difficult route available for those seeking a more intense workout.

How long are the jogging trails near Summit generally?

The jogging trails around Summit vary in length. Many popular routes range from approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) to nearly 6 miles (9.4 km). For instance, the Salt Creek Trail is 5.8 miles (9.4 km), while the Chicago Midway International Airport loop is 4.8 miles (7.7 km).

Are there any dog-friendly jogging trails in Summit?

Many natural areas and trails in Summit are generally dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations or trail signage before heading out with your furry companion.

Can I find family-friendly running routes in Summit?

Yes, the relatively flat terrain and well-maintained paths make many of Summit's routes suitable for families. Shorter, easy routes like the Spears Woods loop are great options for a family outing.

What kind of scenery can I expect on Summit's jogging routes?

Summit's jogging routes offer diverse scenery, from urban loops to natural areas. You can expect creek-side paths, wooded sections, and open spaces. Highlights like Brookfield Woods provide a natural forest setting, while the Salt Creek Greenway Red - Paved Trail offers a scenic paved option.

Are there any circular running routes in Summit?

Yes, several running routes in Summit are designed as loops, offering a convenient circular experience. Examples include the Chicago Midway International Airport loop and the Spears Woods loop.

What can I see along the jogging routes in Summit?

Along Summit's jogging routes, you can explore various points of interest. Natural attractions include Brookfield Woods, North Island, and Bullfrog Lake. You might also encounter sections of the Salt Creek Greenway Red - Paved Trail or the Bemis Woods North Trail.

When is the best time of year for running in Summit?

Summit offers good running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, though it's advisable to run in the mornings or evenings to avoid the midday heat. Winter running is possible, but trails may require appropriate gear due to colder temperatures or potential snow.

Are there running routes accessible by public transport in Summit?

Many areas in and around Summit are well-served by public transport, making some running routes accessible without a car. For routes closer to urban centers, public transport can be a convenient option. It's recommended to check local transit schedules and route proximity to stops when planning your run.

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