#DMTBeautySpot #beauty

Americas 11 Best Trails for Running

Exploring by foot can be one of the most gratifying ways to get to know a new place – or rediscover somewhere familiar. Being able to get a workout in while being overcome with wonder is just a huge bonus. Wherever you are in the country, we’re huge advocates for skipping the gym every now and then to go for a run in a beautiful setting. Not only is it great for the body, but breathing in fresh, open air and taking in a jaw-dropping view is great for the mind.

RELATED: Best Running Shoes for Men

Here, we’ve outlined eleven of the country’s national treasures, these running and hiking trails will evoke excitement and joy in even the most hesitant runners – and they’re all in our own backyard.

GettyImages

The Wildwood Trail in Forest Park, just outside of Portland, boasts 30 miles of streams, cedar trees, wildflowers and tons of other local flora and fauna. It’s officially America’s longest forested urban trail and is well traveled and extremely well kept. Note that Wildwood Trail is rated difficult due to certain steep areas, but it’s worth the trek for the unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding forest.

GettyImages

Chicago Lakefront Trail is great for beginners and experienced runners alike. With nearly 18 miles of mostly flat terrain, the urban trail is a choose-your-own-adventure of sorts. Running along Lake Michigan is a view in and of itself, but runners can also expect plenty of Chicago landmarks – like Buckingham Fountain and Waveland Clock Tower.

GettyImages

Get ready for jaw-dropping views of glistening Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains and ridges on this lakeside trail. The lake itself is tucked between California and Nevada and is billed as a difficult run – but if there’s one running trail you’re going to push yourself on, make it this one.

GettyImages

The views on the Kalalau Trail in Kauai are certainly something to write home about. The trail boasts the only land access to the Na Pali Coast – which is home to many lush valleys, waterfalls and beaches synonymous with Hawaii. Note that running this trail in its entirety is strenuous and not recommended for casual runners.

GettyImages

Just outside of Chattanooga, Tennessee, you’ll find the Cumberland Trail. The trail begins at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park and ends at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park while traversing high ridges, deep gorges, rocky terrain, views of the city and handfuls of local fauna and flora. The 175-mile trail is divided into ten sections and is a great alternative to the bustling Appalachian Trail.

GettyImages

The McKenzie River Trail, true to name, follows the McKenzie River in Eugene, Oregon. The 27-mile trail bleeds into the Cascade Mountains and includes climbing, rocky terrain and sharp turns all while taking you through 300-year-old forests, lava fields and cascading waterfalls. It also makes for a great mountain biking trail.

GettyImages

The Appalachian Trail is a national treasure, and with that status comes a lot of visitors. If you don’t mind working your way through the crowds, the well-known trail is a must-visit. Spanning over 2,000 miles through 14 states, this is a perfect trail for multi-day runs. Smaller paths are also available, specifically near Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.

GettyImages

One of the most well-loved paths in Boston, Charles River Bike Path (otherwise known as Charles River Greenway) is one to remember – which makes sense given the fact that the city hosts the world-renowned Boston Marathon each year. The 22-mile route starts in Boston and finishes in the west suburbs, making it a great option for city dwellers and suburban runners alike. Expect architecturally interesting bridges and landmarks, views of the Boston skyline and lots of lush green space.

GettyImages

Silver Strand, or just “The Strand,” is San Diego’s longest trail – and arguably one of the most beautiful in the state. The narrow, sandy running trail winds through San Diego Bay from Coronado to Imperial Beach (about 15 miles in total). Expect stunning views of the San Diego skyline and beaches, but pay close attention to the coastline, which is sprinkled with glistening silver shells (hence the name).

GettyImages

You can’t have a list of epic running trails without including Central Park. Not only is it insanely convenient for New Yorkers, it makes for a gorgeous, nature-filled run right in the middle of the city. The only downfall? Central Park is a hub for locals as well as tourists, so get ready to weave through groups of people, depending on the time of day you choose to run.

GettyImages

Ask any runner what’s on their bucket list and they’ll likely tell you Poison Spider Mesa. The rocky terrain is popular with mountain bikers, jeeps and runners alike, but it’s well worth it. Aside from the incredible Utah scenery and tons of wildlife, this trail is quite wild and untamed and because of that, it’s billed as difficult for inexperienced runners. Make sure to bring water and know exactly which paths you’re heading down before taking off.

You Might Also Dig:

How to Teach Yourself to Not Hate Running Best Hiking Gear Best Hiking Backpacks

DMTBeautySpot

via https://www.DMTBeautySpot.com

Kaitlyn McInnis, Khareem Sudlow