Explore the Grounds

Running at the Arboretum

Sights, sounds, and smells that change with each season make the Arboretum a runner’s paradise year-round.

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Countless runners take advantage of the nine miles of scenic paved roads that wind through the Arboretum’s West and East Side—creating a beautiful course for training sessions and a variety of running events. The most popular run loops are the outer 4.5-mile loop on the East Side and the 2.9-mile loop around the outer West Side.

Running at the Morton Arboretum: What to Know

Running is permitted only on the paved roadways; please note that the chipped trails are exclusively for walking.

Runners should proceed against the flow of car traffic and keep as far to the right as possible, in the direction of travel. A map with distances is available at the Visitor Center information desk if you have questions about the Arboretum’s roadways.

When running with a group, please keep your group no more than two runners wide.

Runners may change clothes and use the restrooms in the West Pavilion. Beverages and food are available to purchase in the Visitor Center.

Please keep in mind that lockers are not available for public use; runners should be prepared to secure their belongings.

Members-Only Hours

Want to run at the Arboretum during members-only hours? Become a member and run on the grounds between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., before admission opens to the general public each day.

Running Events at The Morton Arboretum

Whether you’re interested in supporting the Arboretum by running in a race or exploring the grounds with other runners, there are several opportunities to run at—or with—the Arboretum every year.

Upcoming Events

Sunday, October 13, 2024
Team Morton Arboretum, Bank of America Chicago Marathon

Saturday, October 26, 2024
Fall Color 5K Run and Walk

Past Events

Saturday, May 4, 2024
Firefly Race Series 10K

Friday, May 3, 2024
Firefly Race Series 3K

Sunday, April 20, 2024
Spring Run/Hike with BPO Hikes + Peace Runners 773

Monday, January 1 through Wednesday, January 31, 2024
The Pine Pacer

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