There are some excellent trail running options in Peoria. Here’s some information about trail running in Forest Park, Detweiller Park, and the Farmdale Reservoir.
Forest Park Nature Center
This 540-acre space in Peoria Heights is a great place for some trail running. There are 7 miles of trails that wind through diverse habitats including open meadows, lush forests, and prairie landscapes. Can be accessed via CityLink bus. This trail map shows three different loop options, rated easy, medium, and hard. Easiest is the 1.5 mile Valley Trail loop, which is more open terrain. More challenging is the ~2.25 mile Deer Run/Wake Robin Trail. All trails are accessible from the Nature Center. A $5.00 admission fee is required.
Detweiller Park
This park is located just north of Forest Park Nature Center. The 760-acre park features 5 miles of trails, plus recreational fields and other facilities. The lower part of the park is more open and flat, while the upper area is more wooded and rugged. The Illinois River Bluff Trail runs through Detweiller Park. It’s also possible to run on Detweiller Drive, which forms a 2.5-mile loop of the park and is known for its beautiful oak trees. Good shade option on a hot day! Note: no shoulder, use caution. TRAIL MAP
Illinois River Bluff Trail
The Illinois River Bluff Trail connects four Peoria Park District parks: Camp Wokanda, Robinson Park, Green Valley Camp, and Detweiller Park. The wooded, hilly trail runs for 6.9 miles, with parking, restrooms, and trail access in each of the parks. Footing and terrain is a mix — some wider sections, some narrower sections with tricky footing, and some stairs.
Farmdale Reservoir
Farmdale Reservoir. Google Street View
Located in East Peoria, Farmdale Reservoir is another spot for some trail running. There are 15 miles of trails. Terrain includes restored native tall grass prairie, and a mature Oak-Hickory forest. NOTE: Popular mountain biking destination — use caution! TRAIL MAP
There are some excellent trail running options in Peoria. Here’s some information about trail running in Forest Park, Detweiller Park, and the Farmdale Reservoir.
Forest Park Nature Center
This 540-acre space in Peoria Heights is a great place for some trail running. There are 7 miles of trails that wind through diverse habitats including open meadows, lush forests, and prairie landscapes. Can be accessed via CityLink bus. This trail map shows three different loop options, rated easy, medium, and hard. Easiest is the 1.5 mile Valley Trail loop, which is more open terrain. More challenging is the ~2.25 mile Deer Run/Wake Robin Trail. All trails are accessible from the Nature Center. A $5.00 admission fee is required.
Detweiller Park
This park is located just north of Forest Park Nature Center. The 760-acre park features 5 miles of trails, plus recreational fields and other facilities. The lower part of the park is more open and flat, while the upper area is more wooded and rugged. The Illinois River Bluff Trail runs through Detweiller Park. It’s also possible to run on Detweiller Drive, which forms a 2.5-mile loop of the park and is known for its beautiful oak trees. Good shade option on a hot day! Note: no shoulder, use caution. TRAIL MAP
Illinois River Bluff Trail
The Illinois River Bluff Trail connects four Peoria Park District parks: Camp Wokanda, Robinson Park, Green Valley Camp, and Detweiller Park. The wooded, hilly trail runs for 6.9 miles, with parking, restrooms, and trail access in each of the parks. Footing and terrain is a mix — some wider sections, some narrower sections with tricky footing, and some stairs.
Farmdale Reservoir
Farmdale Reservoir. Google Street View
Located in East Peoria, Farmdale Reservoir is another spot for some trail running. There are 15 miles of trails. Terrain includes restored native tall grass prairie, and a mature Oak-Hickory forest. NOTE: Popular mountain biking destination — use caution! TRAIL MAP
This 5-mile out & back run along this historic 'pleasure driveway' is a favorite place for a run in Peoria. The scenic, tree-shaded drive features parkland and panoramic views of the Illinois River, and is also lined with grand homes.
Nice waterfront running along Peoria Lake and the Illinois River, through several riverfront parks. An open feel, with good water views. Can continue to Glen Oak Park, a popular Peoria spot with hilly paths and a small lagoon.
This multi-use path is a good opportunity for a longer off-road run in Peoria. Up to 13 miles from Peoria to Dunlap, with a mix of riverfront, parks, residential communities, and farm fields. Good connections to a couple our other Peoria running routes.
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