The best running trails in the Piedmont

The Piedmont region offers a diverse range of running terrains. You'll find routes winding through the foothills of the Alps, along picturesque river valleys, and around tranquil lakes. The landscape includes gentle hillsides, vineyards, and sections within national parks, providing options from flat paths to more challenging ascents.

Yes, the Piedmont region has numerous easy running routes. For example, the Il Lago Sirio – loop run in the Riserva Laghi di Ivrea is an easy 3.8 km (2.4 miles) route, perfect for a relaxed run. Overall, there are over 600 easy routes available in the region.

Many routes in Piedmont offer beautiful scenery. The Lago di Mergozzo - Ring tour provides lovely lakeside views. For a run through a town with historical charm, consider Running through the streets of Cuneo — Ring tour. You can also find routes near natural monuments like the Giant's Kettles of the Toce or the Historic Fountain and Small Waterfall at Lake Mergozzo.

Absolutely, many running routes in Piedmont are designed as loops. Popular options include the Lago di Mergozzo - Ring tour, the The Lakes of Avigliana — Ring tour, and the Il Lago Sirio – loop run in the Riserva Laghi di Ivrea. These circular paths are great for starting and ending your run in the same spot.

Running routes in Piedmont vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter loops like the 3.8 km (2.4 miles) Il Lago Sirio – loop run in the Riserva Laghi di Ivrea, which takes about 27 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Zamboni Hut and Fairy Lake Loop, can be over 18 km (11.2 miles) and take several hours to complete.

Yes, the Piedmont region is home to beautiful waterfalls. While specific running routes might not lead directly to them, you can find highlights like the Pescone Waterfall or the Historic Fountain and Small Waterfall at Lake Mergozzo. You can often plan a run that passes near these natural attractions.

The running routes in Piedmont are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 3,500 reviews. Runners frequently praise the varied terrain, from alpine foothills to tranquil lake circuits, and the extensive network of routes suitable for all ability levels.

For experienced runners seeking a challenge, Piedmont offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gain. The Torino Trail is an 8.1 miles (13.0 km) path with considerable ascent, providing expansive views. Another demanding option is the Valsusa Trail — Ring tour, which covers 13.1 km (8.1 miles) with over 780 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, Piedmont is known for its beautiful lakes, and many running routes circle them. Besides the popular Lago di Mergozzo - Ring tour, you can also enjoy a run around Lake Ceresole Reale or The Lakes of Avigliana, offering tranquil lakeside scenery.

Piedmont features numerous national and regional parks. You can find routes like From Pragelato to Pattermouche – Parco Naturale della Val Troncea, which takes you through the Val Troncea Natural Park, offering a chance to experience the region's protected natural beauty.

The best time for running in Piedmont generally depends on the specific area and your preference. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, ideal for most routes. Summer can be warm, especially in the Po Valley, but higher altitude routes in the Alps provide cooler conditions. Winter running is possible, particularly on lower elevation trails, but some mountain paths may be inaccessible due to snow.