Raceway Woods Forest Preserve - Carpentersville, IL
Raceway Woods Forest Preserve – A Dog-Friendly Gem in Carpentersville, Illinois
If you’re searching for a scenic, pet-friendly destination in Carpentersville, the Raceway Woods Forest Preserve stands out as a top choice for dog owners and hiking enthusiasts alike. Featuring a unique loop trail shaped like a historic raceway, this dog-friendly park offers approximately 3.5 miles of paved walking paths perfect for a vigorous stroll with your pup, rain or shine. The trail includes varied inclines, beautiful bridges, and shaded areas under mature trees—providing a pleasant and refreshing escape from city life.
Although the forest preserve doesn’t appear to have a dedicated, fenced dog park, dogs on-leash are warmly welcomed throughout the park’s expansive green spaces and walked trails. This lovely community spot also features playgrounds for children, occasional special events, and plenty of opportunities to spot nature. While parking is available, it can fill up during peak times or special events, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must remain on-leash while at Raceway Woods Forest Preserve. There is no designated off-leash dog area.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there is a 3.5-mile trail loop that is dog-friendly and scenic, with paved paths and some hills.
- Is there shade or shelter available? There are large shade trees and some covered areas along the trail, offering relief on warmer days.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, restrooms are available on-site.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park has playground areas and ample space for children to play.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? The paved paths make this park a great option after rain, as it stays less muddy compared to dirt trails.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a parking lot on-site, but it may get crowded during events or peak times.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park can get lightly crowded on weekends and during special events, so consider visiting during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.
Reviews
This is a nice trail to walk… about 3.5 miles varies in inclines some. I recommend to stay on walking trail due to bikes, dirt bikes, and ebikes on the dirt trails and it could be unsafe to walk when a bike is going fast. ( found out and jumped out of the way of bikes because we didn’t know to stay off dirt trails) we know that now!
Been taking 2 dogs up here for 20 years. A little more traffic the last few years especially with the bicyclists but always a beautiful place for a walk with your best friend 🧡
Beautiful hike that’s literally shaped like a raceway from one of your favorite racing games. It’s cool to look back at the map and think Mario Cart or something like that. The first part of the walk is shaded along with some other parts throughout and there are a few hills at the beginning and middle of the trail. The complete trail is about 3.5 miles and can be done in an hour at a steady pace with family. There were some bikers on the trail but nothing ridiculous. There are some more paths in the middle of the woods in the center of the trail. And at the end of it or coming into the last mile and a half, you get to a little stretch that you can race remote cars on or do other fun stuff. It was lightly crowded on a Sunday and it was also Labor Day weekend so I can’t judge the other days. It’s a sweet hike to do with families. It’s kid friendly and is mostly one main loop.
I love this place! excellent singletrack Mountian bike trail system expertly maintained by The Chicago Area Mountain Bikers (Cambr)
One of the best walks in our area. I’ve been here numerous times with my dog and it is always a treat. Some tough hills to keep you breathing, 2 beautiful bridges and some history from when it used to be a racetrack for cars.
All the walks are paved so it’s great to do after rain when other places might be muddy.