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Routes
Running trails & routes
United States
Illinois
Cook County
Brookfield

Salt Creek Trail

Moderate

4.6

(3681)

10,378

runners

Salt Creek Trail

00:58

9.36km

10m

Running

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.…

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

McCormick Woods

Brookfield Woods

26th Street Woods

Brezina Woods

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

1.06 km

Brookfield Woods

Highlight • Forest

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.

Tip by

2

5.06 km

Brezina Woods

Highlight • Forest

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

Tip by

3

5.60 km

Salt Creek

Highlight • River

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 …

Tip by

B

9.36 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

6.99 km

1.43 km

885 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

8.28 km

812 m

164 m

104 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Tuesday 7 July

29°C

18°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to jog this trail?

The Komoot route for the Salt Creek Trail, covering approximately 9.4 kilometers (5.8 miles), typically takes about 58 minutes to jog at a moderate pace. This duration allows you to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is this trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, this section of the Salt Creek Trail is generally considered easy to intermediate, making it suitable for recreational runners and beginners. With minimal elevation gain, it offers a pleasant experience for those new to jogging or looking for a less strenuous run.

What is the terrain like on this route?

The route primarily follows the Red Paved Trail, offering smooth paved sections ideal for jogging. You'll also encounter stretches that delve into scenic forest preserves, providing a varied and engaging experience.

What can I see along the route?

As you jog, you'll pass through beautiful natural areas like Brookfield Woods and Brezina Woods. The trail also runs alongside Salt Creek, offering picturesque riverfront views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

What wildlife can I see along the way?

The trail winds through forest preserves and alongside the creek, providing opportunities to spot various wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, herons, and other birds, especially in the more wooded and wetland areas.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, this route is part of a larger trail network. It fully utilizes the Red Paved Trail and the Salt Creek Trail, and also includes significant sections of the OBT-6. You'll also briefly encounter parts of the Salt Creek Greenway.

What is the best time of year to jog this trail?

Spring and fall are often ideal for jogging this trail, offering comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer mornings or evenings can also be pleasant, while winter jogging is possible but may require appropriate gear for colder conditions.

Is this trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails within the Forest Preserves of Cook County, including this route. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this trail?

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required for general use of the trails within the Forest Preserves of Cook County for activities like jogging. However, specific events or activities might have their own requirements, so it's always good to check if you're participating in something organized.

Where can I park to access this route?

Specific parking information isn't provided in the tour data, but as this trail is within the Forest Preserves of Cook County, you can typically find designated parking lots at various access points along the Salt Creek Trail system. Look for parking areas near Brookfield Woods or Brezina Woods for convenient access.

Are there facilities like restrooms or water fountains along the way?

While specific facilities are not detailed for this exact route, trails within the Forest Preserves of Cook County often have amenities like restrooms and water fountains at various points, especially near larger parking areas or picnic groves. It's advisable to carry your own water, especially during warmer months.

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