Find the top rated running trails in Woodland, whether you're looking for an easy short running trail or a long running trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a running trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
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This summer they are about half way done with making an abandoned railroad bridge across the Wabash River as a spur off the circle trail. My information only comes from articles I’ve read but have seen photos of the work in progress. This is exciting. And yes, the trail really needs some maintenance on buckled asphalt but it is still one of our favorites since it is only 45 minute drive from our home in Illinois. Lots of shade, wildlife and so peaceful and low traffic.
This is my favorite rail to trail in the Chicago area. I ride a gravel bike. The wide open spaces and rural scenery is a relaxed vibe. I park at Sugar Creek Admin Center which has a nice parking lot and go all the way to the end just over the Kankakee River at Custer. My favorite section is the area that’s next to the Midewin Tall Grass Prairie. My tips for you if you’re going 40 miles round trip, water, a Gatorade, small snack. Folks on the trail are friendly and wave however once you get to the bridge crossing Hwy 102, things get weird. I don’t know why but the vibes are negative and you can feel it. I always want to see the river but again, bad vibes.
The trail has a few spots where it’s kind of smooth but otherwise the concrete is severely heaved. Might be OK for someone to walk on, but not really suitable for biking. If you live in the area fine but don’t take a trip for this. Disappointing. There’s one nice stretch right before the bridge but that’s about it.
The newest addition to the trail nearly makes it a full circle. The CCT is one of the state’s best biking trails. It weaves it around the country side through some wooded parts of the area. The terrain can be a challenge as it is a fairly steep grade to tackle on a hot and humid day. All I all, it’s a great trail to ride.
The final section of this trail along the wabash river on the west side was officially completed first week of August…the trail is now a complete “circle” and just under 7 miles in length.
Aug 2025
Aug 205
I typically ride prairie path area, but like to get out and find something different from time to time.
Did minimal research before heading down to ride here.
The north end of the trail is on a pretty industrial road beneath an underpass for I-80 and just north of a train crossing.
You can find a place to park within short distance of the trail, but next time I will park at one of the following:
#1
Sugar Creek forest preserve
17540 W Laraway Rd
Joliet, IL 60433
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2GMxcK6ZHjynGe8M9
#2
Near one of the businesses with big empty parking lots on the weekend where the trail crosses Mills Road.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/1Grwn9j5QNm4wT6Y7
Heading south the first few miles is paved blacktop that does not appear to be that old, but has numerous bumpy patches from tree roots. After a few miles it becomes the self healing compacted gravel and is a nicer ride.
I did 16 one way, 32 miles round trip with the south end being Symerton, IL
I think 5 more miles gets you to the river.
There are a couple public rest areas with pit toilets, and a couple fountains also with taps to refill your bottle.
Did not see much in terms of food. There may have been if you ventured off a bit.
The only place inviting bikers were these folks.
Symerton Tap and Grill
https://maps.app.goo.gl/bLMprvEBzoduYS6V9
I don't like a big meal while riding, and just had my own snacks.
Nice ride, its little effort for me to get here, but can see doing this again once each year.
Despite the hot July day we had a terrific ride on this beautiful trail along the river. Rode the entire trail from the east end parking lot. Loved that most of trail was paved - despite some “heaving” due to tree roots and unexpected “dips”. Several bridges to cross and a special “lookout” over the river. The majority of trail is in the shade due to the many trees and beautiful canopy. Rode by an amazing oak savanna- making this a great trail. Can highly recommend this bike trail!!
Really love this trail, hometown trail and ride it 3-4 times a week. Only thing I wish is they would improve some of the paved trail that needs fixing (cracks/etc)
Cons: zero markings and multiple options made it somewhat stressful to navigate so I would not recommend it. At least half is by roads. Pros: good pavement. Partly next to Purdue campus. Small section of Cattail marsh was pretty.
rode the trail on 11/2/2024 roundtrip from manhattan road (mile 7) to the kankakee river (mile 22) . it was in good shape almost the whole length and without loose gravel anywhere.
My first trail ride from near the Vermilion County Fairground to the west edge of Oakwood. Very nice ride. Nice scenery along the route. I only wish it was completed so I could go all the way to Urbana.
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