The best running trails around Lauderdale Lakes

There are 7 dedicated jogging routes around Lauderdale Lakes listed in this guide, offering a range of distances and difficulties for runners.

While many routes are challenging, you can find moderate options. For a good starting point, consider the Running loop from Nordic Trails, which is 7.1 km (4.4 miles) long and classified as moderate, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous run.

Lauderdale Lakes is excellent for long-distance running. The Blue Loop – Rice Lake loop from John Muir Trails is a challenging 36.1 km (22.4 miles) route, and the Emma Carlin Trails – Erratic rock loop from Young Prairie State Natural Area offers another difficult 29.9 km (18.6 miles) option.

Yes, the Running loop from Nordic Trails is 7.1 km (4.4 miles), which is slightly longer than a 5k but can be adapted or enjoyed for a slightly extended run. It's a moderate route through wooded areas.

The region is characterized by its beautiful lakes, including Rice Lake and Lake La Grange, providing scenic backdrops. Many trails traverse natural areas like Young Prairie State Natural Area, offering varied landscapes with rolling hills and established paths.

Absolutely. The area features several difficult routes with significant elevation changes. The Blue Loop – Rice Lake loop from John Muir Trails (36.1 km) and the Rice Lake – Lake La Grange loop from Rice Lake Dam (16.6 km) are both classified as difficult and offer a demanding experience.

Yes, many of the routes are loops, providing a convenient running experience. Examples include the Blue Loop – Rice Lake loop from John Muir Trails, the Emma Carlin Trails – Erratic rock loop from Young Prairie State Natural Area, and the Running loop from Nordic Trails.

While running, you might encounter natural features and trailheads. Notable highlights include the Entrance to John Muir Bike Trails, the Emma Carlin Trails themselves, and the scenic Bald Bluff viewpoint. You'll also be running through parts of the Kettle Moraine State Forest - South.

Many routes in the Lauderdale Lakes area, particularly those traversing natural areas and wooded sections like the Running loop from Nordic Trails, offer shade. Trails within Young Prairie State Natural Area and Kettle Moraine State Forest - South also provide tree cover.

The komoot community frequently explores the varied terrain around Lauderdale Lakes, with nearly 100 runners having used komoot to discover these routes. Runners often praise the region's diverse landscape, from lakeside paths to natural area trails, and the options available for different ability levels.

Yes, the Rice Lake – Lake La Grange loop from Rice Lake Dam is a 16.6 km (10.3 miles) difficult route that specifically incorporates Lake La Grange, offering beautiful lakeside views during your run. Another route, the Bald Bluff – Erratic rock loop from Lake La Grange, also starts from the lake.

The terrain primarily consists of established paths suitable for running. You can expect a mix of surfaces as routes traverse natural areas and alongside lakes. Some routes feature moderate elevation changes, particularly in areas like Young Prairie State Natural Area, providing varied running conditions.