01 May 2020
There is now no excuse not to give running a go. Less commuting means more time to take up new hobbies and running appears to be a popular one. There are a number of stunning places to run around the world, from island routes in The Islands of Tahiti to enduring and challenging trail routes in Colorado.
We've rounded up some inspirational running routes from around the world to encourage you to go further.
Inspiring Trails Japan
Meet the god of running - Hiroshima, Japan
This distinctive mountain trail starts by the only outdoor stone statue in Japan dedicated to Skanda, the god of running. The 4.85 km is difficult due to the mountainous terrain, but offers a good training base for experienced runners. Consisting of a wooded path maintained by citizens and other local volunteers, the route offers runners a cool breeze in the summer and warm underfoot in the winter.
Cliffs and Coast - Shizuoka, Japan
Only 90 minutes from Tokyo, Jogasaki Coast is a stunning stretch of coast on the eastern side of the Japan's Izu peninsula and is famous for its beautiful cliffs and views. Shizuoka will host the road cycling for Tokyo Olympic & Paralympic Games so visitors can team their work out with a slice of culture and experience part of the route with a backdrop of Mt. Fuji. This trail can be modified to fit a runner's experience level and includes possible stopping points like a Buddhist temple, lighthouse, suspension bridge, stained glass museum and ramen shop.
The Islands of Tahiti
Moorea, The Islands of Tahiti
With such breath-taking landscapes on the tropical island of Moorea, it's no surprise that the Tahiti-Moorea marathon is one of the most beautiful and exotic marathons in the world. With its objectives of promoting Moorea and The Islands of Tahiti, further developing sport-tourism, and involving and energising the local population, the 42.195km race usually attracts over 1000 international runners. The marathon route sees runners looping around the island of Moorea, through pineapple plantations and along the pristine white beaches. Visitors can experience the route year-round, taking on as much or little of the course as wanted.
https://tahititourisme.uk/en-gb/
USA
Run like an Olympian – Mammoth Lakes, California
A region favoured by athletes from all over the world for its high-altitude and challenging vertical trails and multi-sport diversity, Mammoth Lakes, California offers awe-inspiring scenery and an abundance of trails along with a healthy running community for active travellers to explore. Legendary track coaches Joe Vigil and Bob Larsen brought marathon superstars to the region in 2001 and ever since, it has become the home of the most decorated distance running club in the U.S., training 12 Olympians who have earned two Olympic medals as well as three major marathon wins. www.visitmammoth.com
Run with a View: Lake & Mountains - South Lake Tahoe, California / Nevada
Hike up glacier-carved granite slopes, find hidden waterfalls and crystal clear streams as you run, and discover alpine meadows painted with the sight of vibrant yellow, purple and orange wildflowers as the smell of pine trees and the freshest of air fills your lungs. The South Lake Tahoe region is crossed with an extensive network of backcountry hiking and running trails that is sure to lead you to your happy place and give you breathtaking sights. Try the Rubicon Trail to Emerald Point - This breathtaking 8-mile out-and-back trail run hugs the shoreline of Lake Tahoe's iconic, glacially sculpted Emerald Bay, traversing through old growth forest with sparkling turquoise water almost always in view. This gem of a trail wraps around Emerald Point and turns northward along the shores of Lake Tahoe before culminating at D.L. Bliss State Park. www.tahoesouth.com
Run the State Capital - Sacramento, California
One of the best ways to discover the beauty of Sacramento is by foot, from the scenic American River Parkway, to the gardens of the historic Sacramento State Capitol building. The 5.24 mile loop surrounding the State Capitol building – which also serves as the finishing point for The California International Marathon – offers a beautiful path through the gardens and past the Capital Mall, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park and the State Indian Museum.
Beach Runs – Santa Cruz, California
With roughly 300 days of sunshine and a dizzying array of outdoor activities, Santa Cruz County is a virtual outdoor gym from beach to forest trails on offer. A flat, mile-long path along Seacliff State Beach in Aptos is a perfect running venue for beginners, or anyone interested in being just steps away from the sand and waves. When you're ready to kick it up a notch and get your heart rate up, climb the famous stairs—all 151 of them! —located opposite the historic “Cement Ship” and pier. In Nisene Marks State Park there are over 30 miles of trails with shimmering shades of green and nature to enjoy along the routes at every turn. santacruz.org
Woodland and Creek Runs – Tuolumne County, California
Located in the heart of the City of Sonora, the Dragoon Gulch Trail provides visitors with a unique opportunity to stroll through the Mother Lode's oak woodlands. The Dragoon Gulch Trail provides over 3.1 miles of natural trails running alongside creeks and vistas that provide spectacular views of the City and its surrounding mountain ranges. The trails vary in difficulty making it perfect for the casual walker and for those who want a strenuous hike, jog or bike ride.
Cabrillo National Monument - San Diego, California
With ocean views and forested trails in abundance, San Diego is one of the most picturesque places to run in Southern California. San Diego's only national monument has a short trail with sweeping views of Point Loma and the bay. Out and back, the Bayside Trail is 2.5 miles, and starts at the old lighthouse. It may be short, but there's a 240ft climb in elevation, so you'll definitely work up a sweat. Enjoying stopping at one of the many scenic lookout points. Afterwards, Liberty Public Market isn't far away, so you can refuel with a cool beer and some
Araby Trail - Greater Palm Springs, California
Fitness fiends, nature lovers, and architecture buffs alike enjoy exploring Araby Trail, located in Palm Springs. The 3.3-mile round-trip trail climbs into the Northern Santa Rosa Mountains, crossing into part of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument.
With little to no shade overhead and a sharp incline, it's best to hit the trail early in the morning. The 1,380-foot gain in elevation takes runners over steep, rocky terrain, which is blanketed in beautiful wildflowers after winter and spring rainfalls.
The entire valley floor unfolds below, and you can even spy Bob Hope's famed flying saucer-shaped house perched on the mountainside, as well as Steve McQueen's glass-and-beam mid century modern home.
The run with the iconic views and Jurassic period fossils - Tri-Valley, California
Mt. Diablo State Park is home to the striking Diablo Mountain Range, sprawling foothills, waterfalls, and wildlife. Despite the mountain's relatively low elevation, the rocky 3,849ft peak boasts some of the best visibility in the Western United States and is perfect for keen runners. On clear days, visitors are able to spot San Francisco to the west, Yosemite to the east, and even Lassen Peak 181 miles north of the State Park.
Mt. Diablo's summit gets pretty steep, pretty fast; so most summit trails are usually intermediate-difficult endeavors with high elevation gains. For an easy-moderate run with beautiful summit views, stop at Juniper Campground on your way up the mountain.
Bluff Top Trail - Sonoma County, California
Sonoma County Regional Parks manages six public access trails in privately-owned The Sea Ranch. Here visitors can run unforgettably beautiful routes along the county's far northern coastal bluffs. Enjoy amazing ocean views, sea stack rock formations, the sound of crashing waves and all the sights and sounds of a wild coast. The Bluff Top Trail runs three miles south before connecting to 2.9 miles of trails in Gualala Point Regional Park. In Gualala, the trail travels past significant sand dunes facing the Pacific Ocean.
Huntington Beach to Newport Beach trail - California
Enjoy the stunning and calming coastal waters whilst running from Huntington Beach to Newport Beach. The paved path goes for 10.5 miles, from Bolsa Chica State Beach in the Huntington Beach area to Newport Blvd. in Newport Beach. Endure some of the best water views along the way, the path is wide and paved, bumping up against the sand. There are lots of spots along the way to eat, grab a drink, rest, or hit the restroom.
Glacial Lake and Cityscapes - Seattle, Washington
Green Lake, in the north of Seattle, is a picturesque park and great spot to explore away from the crowds of the city centre. Fitness fanatics can run around the lake before jumping in on a warm day and go for a swim. Seattle's city skyline can be seen shining in the distance, reminding runners they're far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. www.visitseattle.org
Three Rivers Heritage Trail - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Ideal for runners who like a bit or variety on their route from streets and iconic bridges in the city to wooded trails in regional parks. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail offers 24-miles of urban path weaving through a series of downtown neighbourhoods, popular shopping and entertainment districts and green space providing the ultimate guide to the city on two feet.
Forest Park - Portland, Oregon
With 100 miles of trails (most just a 5-minute drive from center city), clean air, and a mild climate year-round, Portland is a haven for runners.
The largest wooded city park in the U.S., Forest Park is an idyllic shaded urban retreat that covers 5,000 acres just minutes from the city's trendy Pearl District. The park is anchored by the 30.2-mile Wildwood Trail that traverses the park in a zig-zagging northwest/southwest direction.
Naples, Florida's Paradise Coast
Naples is well known for its high-end shopping, world-class culture and sophisticated dining. The best running trail is along Gulf Shore Boulevard and Gordon Road, with views of the pristine white sandy beaches and water, and some of Naples' boutique hotels and holiday homes.
Just north of downtown, there are some additional trails through Everglades-like foliage, along the Gordon River Greenway and Freedom Park.
Barr Trail, Colorado Springs - Colorado
The Barr Trail is an iconic trail that began as a way to access
mining areas on Pikes Peak and later evolved into a tourist trail. It starts in downtown Manitou Springs, a little tourist town just west of The Springs, and climbs to Pikes Peak's summit in 12.6 miles and 7,400-plus feet of vertical gain. This is not an easy
route so be sure to pack the right supplies and rest when you need to. www.colorado.com
