Runners know that one of the best ways to experience a new city or state is by taking it in, one fast foot after another. And luckily for us, America is bursting with diverse running routes—from lush mountain trails to sandy seaside paths to skyscraper-lined city streets. With a country full of amazing runs, it can be hard to decide where you should sightsee in sneakers next.
We talked to elite runners—from coaches to Olympic athletes—from across the country about the best trails in the United States. Here are 25 trails you have to run.
1. Lake Superior — Duluth, Minnesota
As a two-time Olympic marathon runner for Team USA, you can bet that Kara Goucher has explored her fair share of running routes across the U.S. But she says that one of her absolute favorite runs is along Lake Superior, which she enters via Aerial Lift bridge and runs for miles. “Running along Lake Superior has stunning views and the boardwalk and paved path are well maintained,” she says. “If you run out and back, you’ll end down by the bridge where there are lots of cool restaurants and shops to explore," she says. "And you end right by the lake, so you're in the perfect place to wade in and ice your legs!” For those looking for even more mileage, Goucher suggests running across the bridge and towards Park Point, the city’s seven-mile, freshwater sandbar.
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2. Wildwood Trail — Portland, Oregon
Another one of Goucher’s favorite trails is Portland’s Wildwood Trail, which is 30 miles point-to-point, although there are many different entrances. “What I love about this trail is that I feel like I’m in another world when I run there, I get lost in my thoughts in the thickness of the forest,” says the 2007 IAAF World Championships 10K-meter silver medalist. “Things to keep in mind when running here: The trail can get messy in the winter, be careful. This trail at times is challenging, it's better to run for minutes rather than miles on this one. And since you’ll be deep in the woods, you might want to consider running with a buddy for safety reasons.” And if you try this challenging trail in the spring, you'll be rewarded with lush views and wildflowers.
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3. The Arizona Trail — Flagstaff, Arizona
Although the full length of the Arizona Trail spans a whopping 800 miles through deserts, forests, mountains, and canyons, endurance coach and author Matt Fitzgerald's favorite stretch is an 8.2 mile, single-track dirt trail near the top of the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort on the western slopes of the San Francisco Peaks. “It passes through majestic old-growth forests and through glades that turn spectacularly vibrant with wildflowers in autumn,” he says. “These same glades afford breathtaking views of the pristine wilderness north of Flagstaff.” But the incredible scenery comes with a caveat. Says Fitzgerald, “If you want to really enjoy the views, stop moving. The trail is fairly technical, and one of the runners I ran with there recently took a nasty tumble resulting from distracted jogging!” Other need-to-know info? Although the trail—which begins a 20-minute drive from downtown Flagstaff at Aspen corner—isn’t challenging on its own, since it’s at 9,000 feet of elevation, runners should consider spending a few days adjusting to the thin air before attempting it.
4. Wissahickon Valley Park (aka Forbidden Drive) — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Whenever Mile High Run Club CEO Debra Warner is in Philly, she loves running this shady seven-mile trail. “It's a wide trail and has some gentle elevation, but the best thing about it are the trees—it’s shady all summer long!” she says. “It's also populated with runners, so solo runners should feel safe during peak running hours, and on weekends when Philadelphians use the park for picnics.” The trail is perfect for long out-and-back runs and comes complete with a stream and scenic bridges along the route.
5. Diamond Head Loop — Oahu, Hawaii
This fun, 4.84-mile loop circumnavigates Kapoilani Park and boasts beautiful ocean views on the south side of Diamond Head. “My favorite direction keeps the water on my right as I run along the ocean,” says Hawaii Running Lab founder Michael Garrison, who also holds a Ph.D. in kinesiology. The trail is a mix of flats and hills, and if you want to make rest stops along the way you can check out surfers just past the lighthouse on Diamond Head Road and a mouth-watering Saturday morning farmer’s market by Kapiolani Community College. You can see the full route here.
6. The Mesa Trail — Boulder, Colorado
Six-time Ironman Hawaii winner Dave Scott is familiar with many running routes, but one of his favorites is the Mesa Trail, a 7.5-mile out-and-back located in the heart of Colorado. “The trail is magnificent, and I’ve run out and back 100 times,” he says. “You can start on the South End which begins with a 4,000-foot climb to the highest point or on the North End. There are several off-shoot trails—three that I like and reconnect on the Mesa are Blue Stem, North, and South Shanahan. All three head east downhill and the North and South Shanahan can be an added loop from the Mesa and then return.” At nearly 1900 vertical feet, variable footing, and several pitches over a 10-percent grade, the route is challenging even for an Ironman. But with the incredible views of wildfires and the Flatirons, it’s well worth it. Scott advises, “Keep your eyes up and don’t just focus on your feet! Stop a couple times and look out on our great city.”
7. Carmel By The Sea — Carmel, California
“Combining spectacular seaside views and historical landmarks, with an amazing variety of architecture styles and great people watching, this is the most interesting trail I have run,” says Jeff Galloway, a coach and author of 20 different books on running. The route, which can be tackled as an out-and-back or a loop that clocks in at just over four miles, is found at the Carmel Beach parking lot. Once runners turn onto (appropriately named) Scenic Road, they’ll be treated to incredible sights. “You’re looking down at the beach, watching the waves come in from the Pacific. Look right, or north and you’ll see the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course,” says Galloway. “On the left, along Scenic Road is the most interesting collection of houses I’ve experienced: Old England, modern, Frank Lloyd Wright, cozy bungalow, and many more.” With salty winds and waves crashing along a rugged coastline made up of rock formations, the trail has something for all your senses.
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8. Kennesaw Mountain Trail — Marietta, Georgia
Packed with Civil War history and beautiful terrain, this Georgia trail is another of Galloway’s favorite runs. There are approximately 20 miles of trails extending from the base of the mountain at the Visitor Center to Kolb’s Farm, where General Sherman led a series of battles in 1864 before the burning of Atlanta. “The surface is run-able but look for rocks and other debris. There are ups and downs, thick forest and meadows,” says Galloway. “The environment is similar to the Blue Ridge Mountains, which officially begin about an hour north.” Make sure you check out the museum in the visitor center before you set off on your run.
9. The Berry Glen Trail — Redwood National Park, California
“One of my favorite trail runs of all time was in the Redwood National Forest in California,” says professional golfer and runner Andia Winslow. “It is a meditative must-visit! To run beneath giants, feeling completely insignificant yet empowered to share that feeling with everyone you know or will come to know. An ancient ecosystem sets the scene for a quiet and magical experience. The smells are striking, the air is crisp, the colors striking.” Another striking sight, however, is the bear she saw on the 7.2-mile trail, which begins at the Elk Meadow Day Use Area and climbs 1,270 feet in elevation. The route boasts a soft running surface, beautiful forest views, and shade provided by some of the largest trees on earth.
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10. Central Park Loop — Manhattan, New York
Central Park is a green oasis tucked in the center of bustling New York City—and it comes with a wide array of running trails for people at any level. There’s everything from an easy, 1.5-mile cinder pathway around the Jacqueline Onassis Kennedy Reservoir to the hilly, full 6.1-mile loop of the entire park. Equinox trainer and Run Club coach Margaret Shwartz, says she loves adding hills inside the park to the main loop “because it makes me feel like I’m in a forest-like oasis in the middle the chaotic city that is NYC. The hills help you get build your strength to ultimately increase your speed on the flats. The flat and soft Central Park Reservoir in the spring is lined with cherry blossom tress and in the summer, the sunset views are such a great way to end your run, by taking in the scenery.”
11. The Hudson River Run — Manhattan, New York
Arthur Tang’s commute to his job as Equinox Group Fitness and Run Club manager doesn’t involve cramped subway cars. Rather, he runs along the Hudson River—a path that spans a total of 11 miles from the Bronx to the southernmost tip of city at Battery Park. “As a New Yorker, we spend so much time with artificial light, whether its crammed underground on a slowly moving subway, or sitting behind a computer in an office, so it's great to have the option to commute by foot any day of the week,” he says. “The run along the Hudson River passes so many iconic sights—the George Washington Bridge, the Highline, Chelsea Piers, and One World Trade. I use this route as a base for building my long training runs. It's fairly flat, with the option to choose adventures.”
12. Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge — Sudbury, Massachussets
Assabet Wildlife refuge is packed with 2,333 acres of woodland, wetland, streams, and historical sights. And Bill Rodgers, founder of Bill Rodgers Running Center, says that its relatively flat 3.7-mile trail is perfect for runners of all ages and experience. “It’s not crowded and you can see wildlife, like deer, and bunkers where munition would be stored when the U.S. Army used the area in World War II are interspersed throughout the park,” he says. Only 20 miles outside of Boston, the trail is the perfect escape from the city to get a dose of nature and history.
13. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake — Austin, Texas
Located in the heart of Austin, this local favorite gets as many as 2.6 million visitors every year. “This well-maintained trail allows you to run in the shade, with a view of the city, offering plenty of water fountains, and never once have I had to worry about a car passing,” Austin Runners Club President Iram J. Leon says. "Sometimes you can even find great art outside, like the current Ai Wei Wei sculpture."
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14. The Cumberland Trail — Chattanooga, Tennessee
“The Cumberland Trail is a beautiful snapshot of Tennessee’s wooded southern landscape,” says Brandon Mader, founder of RunningLane and lifelong trail runner. “Deciduous vegetation and rock gardens characterize the path, but it is highlighted by sweeping bluff views and water crossings.” Although the trail covers approximately 300 miles end-to-end, Vader says that only 200 miles are open to the general public. He would recommend accessing the trail from the Chattanooga terminus on Signal Mountain. The different trails vary greatly in distance and difficulty, ranging from Rainbow Lake’s 2.3-mile loop to Mushroom Rock, which is 12 miles there and back. Although, keep in mind that this is rocky, root-filled technical trail running, so be sure to watch your surroundings so you don’t trip.
15. Seminole-Wekiva Trail — Seminole County, Florida
For Orlando Runners Club Vice President Carly Dudash, her favorite running route is the 14-mile Seminole-Wekiva Trail—a paved stretch of abandoned railroad that provides a perfect mix of art, history, and the Florida outdoors. “At mile 3.5, runners admire dozens of colorful, eye-catching murals that are part of the ‘Paint the Trail’ project,” she says. “These murals feature motivational quotes and inspiring artwork, and add a happy energy boost to any workout!” But the sights don’t end there. According to Dudesh, “Those adventuring past mile 10 are rewarded with a visit to historic Florida. Blue markers honor the memories of small citrus towns that were lost to the Great Freeze of 1895 to 1896. These markers, and a few surviving houses, are all that remain along this quiet stretch.” Runners should remember to wear sunscreen and a bring a bottle of water with them—that Florida sun doesn’t play around—which can be filled at the San Sebastian trailhead, the Softball Complex near mile 1.5 (which also has restrooms, wi-fi and showers), mile six, and near mile 11. Dudesh says that runners should also pay close attention to the map signs provided, especially during the first two or three miles where there are a few turns and intersections.
16. Lakefront Trail — Chicago, Illinois
Referred to by locals as Chicago’s Grand Canyon, the 18.5-mile Lakefront Trail offers runners incredible city views along the shore of Lake Michigan. “The north side is always packed with runners,” says Greg Hipp, Executive Director of Chicago Area Runners Association. “Runners looking for a little solitude can move to the south side of the trail. The view facing north from Oakwood Beach is one of the most incredible views you'll ever find of the Chicago skyline.” The trail is currently undergoing a makeover to separate the pedestrian path from the biking path, which will make the scenic route a safer one. Although you can get on the trail at any point, Hipp says that the most common starting points are by Montrose Beach and North Avenue Beach on the north side, Lakeshore East and Navy Pier in the middle, and Oakwood Beach and Promontory Point on the south side.
17. Nanamocomuck Trail — North Conway, New Hampshire
According to Mike Davis, running coach and CEO of No Finish Line Running, "The Nanamocomuck trail is a wonderful cross-country skiing trail in the winter, and when the snow is finally gone, it becomes a fantastic single-track running trail!” Located right outside of Conway, New Hampshire, the 14-mile trail follows the Swift River and offers scenic views of the White Mountain region. Although Davis notes that the trail “challenges trail enthusiast with roots, rock gardens, muddy pits—and as you leave the riverside and head up to the fir and birch forest, some climbing will be required.” These challenging obstacles are great for people with some trail running experience. Just remember to bring some bug repellant and water!
18. Jemison Park Nature Trail — Mountain Brook, Alabama
“Runners flock to this eight-mile loop in one of the most scenic 'burbs in Birmingham,” says Resolute Running coach Ann Cade Thomas. “The first couple of miles traverses the Jemison Trail dotted with beautiful wildflowers, then winds through The Villages of Mountain Brook—English Village, Mountain Brook Village, and Crestline Village—all linked by tree-lined sidewalks. A final climb toward Key Circle boasts the best views of downtown Birmingham. Even local runners pause their watches to take a pic.” Thomas’ suggested route is actually a combination of three connected trails: Watkins Trace Trail, Jemison Trail, and Nature Trail. But those who are more inclined to an easy three-mile run should consider sticking to the Jemison loop.
19. Turquoise Lakes Trail — Leadville, Colorado
With an elevation of 10,152 feet, Leadville is the highest city in the United States. It also is packed with some of the country’s most beautiful trails. One of ultra marathoner and two time breast-cancer survivor Junko Kazukawa’s favorites in the 12.7 mile out-and-back Turquoise Lake Trail. “It’s a very runnable single track,” she says. “There are some smooth sections, and some rocky sections, but minimum elevation gain. There are very beautiful views of the Turquoise Lake along the trail.” Just make sure you have enough water and a good pair of lateral-supported trail running shoes to navigate around some rocky terrain.
20. Poison Spider Mesa — Moab, Utah
“Poison Spider Mesa gets a reputation as being a Jeepers' wonderland, but there's some gorgeous terrain up there for trail runners, too,” says trail runner, environmentalist, and author Meghan Hicks. “The expansive easterly view is a stunner, and you can even see some of the arches in Arches National Park.” Coming in at 9.8 miles point-to-point, the route isn’t meant for the faint of heart. Says Hicks, “The Poison Spider Mesa Trail offers quick access to the mesa top, but it's a Jeep road so you'll share it with motorized vehicles. Alternately, climb the hiker-and-mountain-biker-only Portal Trail, but beware a couple precarious drop-offs. They aren't dangerous if you are careful, but be ready to slow down and walk in a couple spots. Once atop the mesa, join the Gold Bar Rim Singletrack and run along the eastern edge of Poison Spider Mesa to your heart's content, and return from where you came when you are done.”
21. Hidden Valley Trail — Moab, Utah
If you’re looking for another trail in stunning Moab, Hicks suggest the aptly named 2.8-mile Hidden Valley Trail. “It climbs up above Moab and into a gorgeous, grassy valley ensconced with red slickrock on all sides,” says Hicks. “In the summer when it's hot, shade arrives to Hidden Valley sooner than the rest of Moab, so it can make a great evening run. The trail through the valley itself is a perfect single-track, but use care on the super-steep and rocky bits that lead from the trailhead up into the valley. Boulders and ledges there will slow you down but up the adventure factor, for sure.”
22. Coronado Island — San Diego, California
As the creator of Equinox’s Precision Running Program, David Siik’s job is to motivate people to run. What motivates him? Well, seeing Navy Seals hit the pavement (and sand) by the military base in Coronado Island pushes him to lace up his sneakers and head outside. “Running on Coronado Island is simply so fun,” he says. “It is one of the few places I actually enjoy running along the streets, darting down the beach, passing by the famous Hotel Del Coronado and by one of the military bases. There is such a classic American feel on the island. The military presence, the beautiful homes, the easy pace of the island feels so great. I have had many many fun and memorable runs on that beach.”
23. North Haven — North Haven, Maine
FastTwitchGrandma’s co-founder Virginia Davies’ favorite place to run is in North Haven, Maine, where she says “the entire island is one big run trail.” With a gentle, rolling terrain and a beautiful view of the sea and Camden Hills, the small island can be reached by a Rockland Ferry. “Enjoy a morning run before it gets too hot,” says Davies. “Have a lobster roll at the Landing and take the late-afternoon ferry back to the mainland. Or plan to spend a night at Nebo Lodge and go kayaking or cycling in the afternoon.”
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24. Cal-Sag Trail — Chicago, Illinois
Located in the southern suburbs of Chicago, the Cal-Sag Trail has undergone a transformation over the last two years in which it was doubled in length. The full woodland trail now extends 26.5 miles, enough to make your own marathon from Lemont, Illinois to the Indiana border at the Burnham Greenway. “I love this trail because of the scenery it offers,” says Chicago Area Running Association’s Dan Majka. “It is mostly tree-lined which helps during the summer months. While running you will see waterfalls, local baseball fields, and people fishing or taking wedding pictures at Lake Katherine. In fall, the trees look like a postcard.” The trail spans through nine different communities and has various access points along the way.
25. Barr Trail — Pike National Forest, Colorado
This iconic 13-mile loop is one of the most famous and highest-elevation trails in Colorado, climbing 7,390 feet from Manitou Springs up to the summit of 14,115-foot Pikes Peak. “Site of the Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon trail races in August, do the entire trail round-trip, or take the cog railway down from the top after enjoying a doughnut at the summit house gift shop,” suggests Runners Edge of the Rockies founder and coach David Manthey. “Locals do hill repeats up the insanely steep one-mile long Manitou Incline, and then run back down the Barr Trail.” Since you’ll be going through various climate zones, dress accordingly if you’re planning to run the entire trail. Another word of warning? “Parking can sometimes be as much of a challenge as the trail itself, so plan ahead,” Manthey says.
