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Sterling Lake Viewpoint loop from Wadsworth Prairie Nature Preserve

Routes

Running trails & routes

Sterling Lake Viewpoint loop from Wadsworth Prairie Nature Preserve

Moderate

4.6

(7832)

17,951

runners

Sterling Lake Viewpoint loop from Wadsworth Prairie Nature Preserve

01:31

14.8km

30m

Running

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: May 17, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

5.74 km

Sterling Lake Viewpoint

Highlight • Viewpoint

This viewpoint gives hikers a great view of the 86-acre Sterling Lake within Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve. Visit at sunrise for a calm experience and a chance to see deer or waterfowl near the shore!

Tip by

7.20 km

Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve

Highlight • Forest

You will find many beautiful lakes and rivers on this Blue loop. This course is part of the Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve.

Tip by

9.35 km

Stone Bridge Over the River, Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve

Highlight • Bridge

You will find many beautiful lakes and rivers on this Blue loop. This course is part of the Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve.

Tip by

14.8 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

14.6 km

182 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

14.4 km

182 m

158 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Friday 26 June

20°C

13°C

-- %

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Description

The Sterling Lake Viewpoint loop from Wadsworth Prairie Nature Preserve is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a moderate jogging route that delivers on scenery without demanding extreme effort. This 9.2-mile (14.8 km) journey, with a minimal 96 feet (29 metres) of elevation gain, is typically completed in about 1 hour and 31 minutes. It's perfect for a steady run through diverse landscapes, suitable for most fitness levels looking for a rewarding outdoor experience.

What to expect on Sterling Lake Viewpoint loop from Wadsworth Prairie Nature Preserve

As you jog this route, you'll experience a pleasant mix of terrain, largely consisting of paved surfaces for a smooth run, though some sections transition to gravel. The trail winds through picturesque oak forests and planted pine groves, offering a varied backdrop. A central feature is the stunning 86-acre Sterling Lake, with the Sterling Lake Viewpoint providing expansive vistas across the water. The preserve also borders the Des Plaines River, and its floodplains are a magnet for various birds and waterfowl, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing. The relatively flat terrain contributes to its accessibility, making it a good option for those who enjoy varied landscapes without significant climbs.

Planning your visit

This loop is located within the Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve, which encompasses the Wadsworth Prairie Nature Preserve, Lake County's first forest preserve. The extensive trail system here is popular not just for jogging, but also for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and provides access to the larger Des Plaines River Trail. The preserve offers amenities such as picnic shelters, a canoe launch, and fishing piers, enhancing your outdoor experience. Consider visiting in fall for vibrant colors or in spring for wildflowers and active birdlife, as the preserve's restored landscape shines in these seasons.