Fort Sheridan and Green Bay Trail Loop

This challenging 22.6-kilometer (14-mile) loop is rated as a 'difficult' run. For someone with very good fitness, it typically takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete. Your actual time may vary based on your pace and any stops you make along the way.

While there isn't one single officially designated 'Fort Sheridan and Green Bay Trail Loop,' this route combines trails within the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve with sections of the Green Bay Trail to form a varied and scenic loop. You'll follow a well-established combination that offers a comprehensive experience of the area.

Parking is available at various points along the route, particularly within the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve. Look for designated parking areas near trailheads. Specific parking details can often be found on the Forest Preserves of Lake County website or by checking local maps for the Fort Sheridan area.

The terrain is quite diverse. Within the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, you'll encounter rolling hills, bluffs, and ravines, with both paved and grass surfaces. The Green Bay Trail sections feature alternating asphalt and crushed limestone. While generally well-maintained, some paved sections may have bumps or cracks. Be prepared for varied surfaces and some elevation changes.

Due to its length (22.6 km / 14 miles) and varied terrain, this loop is rated as 'difficult' and requires 'very good fitness.' While sections of the Green Bay Trail are generally easier, the combined loop with Fort Sheridan's hills and bluffs makes it more challenging. Beginners might prefer shorter, flatter sections within the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve or on the Green Bay Trail before attempting the full loop.

This route offers a wealth of sights. You'll enjoy awe-inspiring lake overlooks from 70-foot-high bluffs, public access to a 0.75-mile sandy Lake Michigan shoreline at Rosewood Beach, and views of woodlands and savannas. The Green Bay Trail passes through upscale neighborhoods and track-side gardens. Don't miss the historic district of Fort Sheridan and the General Sheridan Equestrian Statue.

Spring and fall are often ideal for jogging due to milder temperatures and beautiful scenery, including migratory bird activity. Summer can be pleasant, especially along the lake, but be mindful of heat and humidity. Winter jogging is possible, but trail conditions may vary with snow and ice, particularly on unpaved sections within the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails within the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve and the Green Bay Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required for general access to the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve or the Green Bay Trail for activities like jogging. It offers free public access to its natural areas and amenities.

Yes, the Fort Sheridan trails and the Green Bay Trail are part of a larger regional network. This route intersects with sections of the OBT-8, the Grand Illinois Trail - McHenry to Chicago, and the Robert McClory Bike Path, offering possibilities for extended runs or exploring different areas.

The Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is a haven for wildlife, especially birds, as it lies within a busy flyway for migratory species, with over 236 bird species observed. You might also spot various small mammals, and the diverse woodlands and savannas support a rich array of plant life, including rare species.