The best running trails around Franklin Park
4.3
(7)
661
runners
66
runs
If you've ever tried planning jogging around Franklin Park, you know how quickly the sheer number of paths can feel overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and which are just filler. That's exactly why we created this guide. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these trails, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best jogging routes Franklin Park has to offer, saving you all the guesswork.
Franklin Park truly stands out as Boston's largest park, offering a fantastic escape with its extensive network of paths. You'll find everything from easy, tranquil loops through dense woodland preserves to more challenging routes with undulating terrain, especially within "The Wilderness" area. It’s a place where you can really feel like you’ve left the city behind, even if just for an hour or two.
If you only do one, we'd point you straight to the Des Plaines River Trail. This moderate 4.7 miles (7.6 km) route is a community favorite for a reason, offering a gentle 52 feet (16 meters) of elevation gain and a great feel for the park's character. For something a bit easier and more tranquil, especially if you're looking for a peaceful woodland experience, the Thatcher Woods Hiking Trail is a fantastic choice at 2.3 miles (3.7 km). With more than 500 runners having used komoot to explore here, you can trust these routes are worth your legs.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
10
runners
7.58km
00:47
20m
20m
The Des Plaines River Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, characterized by its varied terrain and continuous views of the river. You'll jog through woodlands, prairies, and riparian areas, with sections of crushed gravel and hard-packed soil underfoot. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer and various bird species, especially as you pass through forest preserves like Robinson Woods. This route provides a refreshing experience for those seeking natural beauty close to the city.
Planning your jog on the Des Plaines River Trail is generally easy, with many access points and parking options available. However, it's worth noting that after heavy rains, some underpasses can flood, potentially making sections impassable. The trail is largely considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for most joggers, and this particular 4.7-mile (7.6 km) segment with only 52 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 46 minutes. Autumn is a particularly beautiful time to visit, with vibrant fall foliage.
This extensive multi-use trail stretches for over 56 miles, serving as a vital natural oasis near Chicago and its northern suburbs. It connects to other regional trails, expanding your recreational opportunities beyond this specific route. The trail is highly rated by users for its scenic river views and diverse landscapes, making it a popular choice for those looking for Des Plaines River Trail popular routes for jogging.
1
runners
3.70km
00:26
10m
10m
The Thatcher Woods Hiking Trail offers a delightful and easy escape into nature, perfect for a quick jog or a leisurely stroll. You'll traverse a mix of natural paths, singletrack, and paved sections, winding through a vibrant floodplain forest and savanna. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and local wildlife as you pass by Thatcher Glen Pond and enjoy views of the Des Plaines River, all under a refreshing canopy of oak and maple trees.
This easy 2.3-mile (3.7 km) route features a mere 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, making it incredibly accessible for all fitness levels and ideal for a 25-minute outing. The preserve is a popular spot for nature observation and birdwatching throughout the year, so you can enjoy its beauty in any season. While specific parking isn't detailed, the area is generally well-suited for visitors.
Thatcher Woods is a significant 245-acre forest preserve, part of a larger natural complex that includes the Hal Tyrrell Trailside Museum of Natural History. Beyond jogging, the preserve offers opportunities for picnicking and nature photography, and its trails connect to broader networks like the Illinois Prairie Path, providing options for extended adventures if you wish.
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5.0
(1)
30
runners
9.95km
01:10
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
runners
8.71km
00:59
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
10
runners
8.65km
00:58
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Des Plaines River Trail totals over 31 miles in one direction and has a bunch of different trailheads along the way. This particular section of the crushed-gravel trail gets right up next to the Des Plaines River and offers views of the water. There are a couple other trails nearby that you can connect to.
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An oxbow of the Des Plaines River helped to create the flood-prone Thatcher Glen Pond. This small fishing reservoir has a forest path that passes along its eastern bank.
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Robinson Woods North is a predominantly wooded haven adorned with scattered prairies. Explore remnant prairie spots along the route and look for the white wild indigo, nodding onion, goldenrod, and blazing star plants that create a haven for monarchs and other butterflies.
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This area offers a nice unpaved trail that follows along the Des Plaines River, providing enjoyable views and sounds as you ride. The park is named after Alexander Robinson, the English name of Potawatomi chief Chee-chee-pin-quay, born in 1787.
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This trail meanders along the Des Plaines River, meeting up and crossing the river several times through more than 12 forest preserves, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your ride.
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This area offers a nice unpaved trail that follows along the Des Plaines River, providing enjoyable views and sounds as you ride. The park is named after Alexander Robinson, the English name of Potawatomi chief Chee-chee-pin-quay, born in 1787.
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An oxbow of the Des Plaines River helped to create the flood-prone Thatcher Glen Pond. This small fishing reservoir has a forest path that passes along its eastern bank.
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The Des Plaines River Trail totals over 31 miles in one direction and has a bunch of different trailheads along the way. This particular section of the crushed-gravel trail gets right up next to the Des Plaines River and offers views of the water. There are a couple other trails nearby that you can connect to.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Franklin Park?
Franklin Park offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 60 different options to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance runs.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the jogging routes in Franklin Park?
The jogging routes in Franklin Park feature diverse terrain. You'll find an extensive network of paths, including six miles of roads and fifteen miles of pedestrian and bridle paths. The park offers a blend of rural scenery, dense woodland preserves, and undulating paths, providing both tranquil stretches and sections with varied elevation.
Are there easy running routes suitable for beginners in Franklin Park?
Yes, Franklin Park has routes suitable for beginners. For instance, the Thatcher Woods Hiking Trail is an easy 2.3-mile (3.7 km) path that offers a tranquil experience through woodland with minimal elevation changes. Overall, there are 2 easy routes available.
What are some more challenging running trails in Franklin Park?
For those seeking a challenge, Franklin Park offers several difficult routes. One notable option is the Robinson Woods North – Catherine Chevalier Woods loop from Elmwood Park, a 13.8-mile (22.3 km) trail that takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete, leading through varied woodlands and open areas. In total, there are 14 difficult routes to test your endurance.
Can I find circular running routes in Franklin Park?
Yes, Franklin Park features several loop trails for runners. These circular routes allow you to experience different sections of the park without retracing your steps, offering continuous and engaging runs through its diverse landscapes.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can I see while jogging in Franklin Park?
While jogging in Franklin Park, you can encounter several notable features. Keep an eye out for the serene Scarboro Pond and the historic Ellicott Arch, which provide beautiful visual points of interest. You might also spot unique geological formations like Roxbury Puddingstone outcroppings and old stone ruins, such as those in the Long Crouch Woods (also known as 'the Bear Dens'). Other natural highlights include Brookfield Woods and Caldwell Woods.
Is Franklin Park suitable for family-friendly jogging?
Franklin Park is well-suited for family-friendly jogging due to its extensive network of paths and varied terrain. Many routes offer a blend of rural scenery and woodland preserves, providing a pleasant and safe environment for families to enjoy a run together. The park's diverse options include easier paths that are great for all ages.
Are dogs allowed on the running trails in Franklin Park?
Yes, Franklin Park is generally dog-friendly, making it a great place to jog with your canine companion. Many of the park's pedestrian and bridle paths are suitable for dogs, allowing them to enjoy the natural surroundings alongside you. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them.
How can I get to Franklin Park using public transport for a run?
Franklin Park is accessible via public transport, as it is a significant part of Boston's Emerald Necklace. For detailed information on specific routes and schedules, it's best to consult the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) website or a local transit app to plan your journey to the park.
Is there parking available for runners at Franklin Park?
Yes, parking is available at Franklin Park for visitors. Given its size and popularity as a recreational area, there are designated parking areas to accommodate runners and other park users. It's advisable to check local signage or the Boston Parks and Recreation Department website for specific parking locations and any potential restrictions.
What do other runners say about the trails in Franklin Park?
The running routes in Franklin Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.5 stars from 8 reviews. Over 500 runners have used komoot to explore the park's varied terrain, often praising its extensive path networks, tranquil woodland preserves, and the diverse experiences it offers for all ability levels.
What is the best time of year to jog in Franklin Park?
Franklin Park offers a great jogging experience year-round, but the best time often depends on personal preference. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer mornings and evenings are ideal to avoid the heat, while winter runs can be invigorating, though you should be mindful of potential snow or ice on paths.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible jogging paths in Franklin Park?
Franklin Park, with its extensive network of roads and pedestrian paths, includes sections that are relatively flat and paved, which may be suitable for wheelchair users. While not all paths are specifically designated as accessible, many of the main thoroughfares offer smoother surfaces. It's recommended to check specific trail conditions or contact the park administration for detailed accessibility information.
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