In the horse trail parking lot off of Sunset Lake Blvd. This is across the street from trail marker #17 on the summer map.
This lot can be accessed by taking County Road 27 south from County Road 42. From 27 (follow the signs to Murphy-Hanrehan) take County Road 74 East and County Road 75 South. Once in the park (follow the signs for the Horse Trail Parking) turn East onto Sunset Lake Blvd. The Horse trail Parking lot is clearly marked (on the right side of the road).
Note: Parking is FREE at Three Rivers Park District locations.
Route:
This very rural park has miles and miles of unpaved trails. The terrain is variable consisting of sandy, rutted, and semi rocky sections. That said it is surprisingly easily runable, though care must be taken in some sections.
Recommended routes all begin at the horse trail parking lot. We STRONGLY recommend you take along a map. Maps can be downloaded or they can be found at the main "gatehouse" parking lot in the mailbox near the bike trail entrance.
The Scenic Prairie Loop: Run from the parking lot to 37, 36, 40, 41, 35, 34, 33, 28, 31, 30, 29, and back to the lot. Estimated toal mileage is 3.25 miles.
The Hilly Wooded Loop: Cross the street and run from 17 to 16, 15, 13, 14, cross the street and turn right. A short distance ahead a hidden and narrow trail on your left will dive into the woods. Trust us and take it. Run to 30, 29 and back to the lot. Estimated toal mileage is 3 miles.
The Lake Loop: Run from the parking lot to 37, 38, 39, 38, 40, 36, 37 and back to the lot. Estimated mileage is 3.75 miles.
Other things to know:
Remember, these are horse trails. Thus, the horses have the Right-of-Way! Some of these horses have been known to spook easily. Walk (or stop altogether) as they pass, if required.
Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve is an excellent location for trail running and fine for group runs. All routes begin and end at the horse trail parking lot, allowing runners to join or leave the group at varying distances. Toilets can also be found near the parking lot. No water is available!! Bring plenty of your own.
These trails can be quite buggy (flys, mosquitos, and ticks) during the appropriate seasons.
