Trail Tracing a Race Track at Raceway Woods Forest Preserve in Carpentersville, Illinois

Trail Tracing a Race Track at Raceway Woods Forest Preserve in Carpentersville, Illinois

A silo rose in front of us as we pulled into our parking spot at Raceway Woods Forest Preserve. Immediately, we knew this preserve would be unique. Admittedly, we ventured to the preserve to scout for fall colors unware that we would learn a little history as well.

Historic silo at Raceway Woods.

For the curious, a placard briefly details preserve history. The silo is believed to predate the raceway known as Meadowdale International Raceway. While the raceway was constructed in 1958, the silo was seen in an aerial photo dating to 1939. The raceway was used for motor racing 1958-1968.

Slightly hilly trails ramble through Raceway Woods Forest Preserve.

Raceway Woods Forest Preserve contains a nice loop trail with footpaths spindling off from the main trail. Rolls add more to the trail. Some of the additional footpaths cross through delicate natural areas. 

A ravine provides a serene and picturesque moment as a bridge traverses a brook. As we approached the ravine, we immediately reveled in a treat of fall colors emerging! 

Fall colors emerging in a ravine.

Raceway's 122 acres includes savanna and woodlands. We did not find the preserve too busy during our Wednesday afternoon visit. I have been told by other visitors it can get busy on the weekend. Certain trails allow horse riding and biking. However, visitors should be aware of trail designations.

We did not have as long at Raceway Woods as we would have liked. However, we enjoyed the nature escape during our visit and were delighted by what we found at Raceway Woods. We look forward to taking on the whole loop and additional side paths!