The best running trails in California

The Venice Beach Boardwalk out and back & Santa Monica route offers a vibrant coastal jogging experience, blending continuous ocean views with the lively atmosphere of two iconic California beach towns. You'll run on a predominantly flat, paved path, passing by palm trees and the unique street art and performers of Venice Beach. This moderate 6.9-mile (11.1 km) route, with only 81 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 8 minutes, making it perfect for an accessible and scenic run.

To make the most of your visit, consider starting your jog in the early morning. This allows you to enjoy the coastal serenity before the Venice Beach Boardwalk becomes bustling with crowds. The path is wide and multi-use, suitable for various activities, and generally easy to navigate. No special permits or fees are required for this public access route.

This route is notable for its iconic status, traversing the world-famous Venice Beach Boardwalk, which is Southern California's second-largest tourist attraction. You'll pass by landmarks like Muscle Beach and the Santa Monica Pier, both of which have a significant presence in pop culture. The trail's accessibility and consistently beautiful coastal scenery make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

The Ocean Front Walk offers a vibrant, classic Southern California jogging experience right along the Pacific coastline. You'll cruise along a wide, paved multi-use path, soaking in expansive ocean views and passing lively beach communities. Keep an eye out for landmarks like Crystal Pier as you enjoy the continuous stretch of sandy shores and the energetic atmosphere.

This route is generally considered easy due to its flat terrain, but the 5.3 miles (8.5 km) distance can make it a moderate workout, typically taking about 52 minutes. With only 15 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, it's accessible for most. Since it's a popular shared-use path, consider heading out in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

What makes this trail stand out is its immersion in the lively culture of Southern California's boardwalks. Lined with shops and restaurants, it provides a straightforward, scenic jogging path that captures the essence of a perfect beach day. It's an ideal choice if you're looking for a flat, engaging run with plenty to see.

The Maria Ygnacio Bike Path and Obern Trail offers a wonderfully tranquil jogging experience, guiding you along paved surfaces through a mix of natural riparian habitats and pleasant residential areas. You'll follow the Atascadero Creek, known for its small wildlife and birdwatching opportunities, before transitioning to the Maria Ygnacio Bike Path, which meanders through green spaces and alongside the Maria Ygnacio Creek. This 3.8-mile (6.2 km) route is almost entirely flat, with only 13 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, making it a moderate and accessible option for a quick 37-minute run.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as these trails are popular and well-connected within the Santa Barbara and Goleta area. The route is ideal for casual users, families, and even those with strollers or wheelchairs, thanks to its mostly flat and paved terrain. A previously closed section of the Maria Ygnacio Bike Path near the U.S. 101 undercrossing has now reopened, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted journey.

These trails are more than just a place to jog; they are crucial connectors in the region, linking Goleta Beach Park to areas like the Modoc Preserve and Patterson Open Space. The Maria Ygnacio Creek itself is an Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area, home to steelhead trout, adding an ecological dimension to your run. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a quiet, traffic-free route that integrates community access with natural beauty.

The Petaluma River Park Trail offers a delightful and accessible jogging experience along the Petaluma River, perfect for a quick escape into nature. This easy 1.5-mile (2.4 km) route features a flat, mostly paved path with only 15 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, making it ideal for all fitness levels. You can expect to complete the jog in about 16 minutes, enjoying serene riverfront scenery and passing by points of interest like the Steamer Gold Wreck and Channel Park.

When planning your visit, you'll find the trail is very convenient, with portable restrooms located near the River Heritage Center and the Steamer Landing Parking Lot. It's a dog-friendly jogging route, but remember to keep your furry friend on a leash to protect the diverse wildlife. The trail is enjoyable throughout the year, though spring and fall provide the most comfortable conditions for a run.

This trail is part of a larger wetland system, making it a significant spot for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching, with over 200 species recorded. Beyond its natural appeal, the park also features public art, including the monumental "Huru" sculpture by Mark di Suvero, blending art with the natural environment. It's a great option for family-friendly jogging or a peaceful solo outing.

The Shoreline Beach Pedestrian Path offers a delightful coastal jogging experience, stretching 5.7 miles (9.1 km) along the Long Beach waterfront. With only 32 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, this moderate route is incredibly flat and takes about 56 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a relaxed run. You'll glide along a dedicated, resin-based path, enjoying continuous views of the Pacific Ocean, white sand beaches, and landmarks like the Aquarium of the Pacific and Rainbow Harbor.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is easily accessible with numerous entry points. You'll find public restrooms and water fountains conveniently spaced along the route. For the most scenic experience, consider an evening jog; the path around Shoreline Village is particularly stunning at sunset, casting a beautiful glow over the harbor and city skyline.

What makes this path truly stand out is its dedicated jogging surface, which is softer and more forgiving than concrete, designed specifically for comfort. It provides an uninterrupted oceanfront experience, seamlessly integrating with Long Beach's vibrant attractions like the Queen Mary and Shoreline Village. This family-friendly route is also a popular choice for its romantic charm, especially near the Love Lock Bridge, offering a unique blend of exercise and sightseeing.

The Bayshore Bikeway offers a delightful jogging experience, tracing the picturesque San Diego Bay on predominantly paved, flat surfaces. You'll enjoy diverse scenery, from the urban waterfront with views of downtown San Diego and the USS Midway Museum, to the more natural sections passing through the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Keep an eye out for the striking Coronado Bridge and the iconic Hotel del Coronado as you make your way along this engaging route.

This moderate 7.6-mile (12.3 km) segment, with a minimal 61 feet (19 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, be prepared for minimal shade along much of the route, especially on the Silver Strand, so carrying ample water and wearing sun protection is highly recommended. The trail is easily accessible and passes near various parks and beaches, offering plenty of spots to start or take a break.

Part of the larger 24-mile Bayshore Bikeway, this route is a segment of the California Coastal Trail, connecting several communities around San Diego Bay. Its unique blend of urban landmarks, like the Embarcadero Marina Park North, and natural beauty, including potential wildlife sightings, makes it a notable option for joggers. You'll find numerous amenities, including cafes, along its course, and the option to use the Coronado Ferry can add flexibility to your journey.

If you're looking for a classic California coastal run, the Santa Barbara Beach Trail delivers continuous Pacific Ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere. This 6.7-mile (10.8 km) route is mostly flat and paved, offering a moderate jogging experience with just 136 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain. You'll pass iconic landmarks like Stearns Wharf and the Andrée Clark Bird Refuge, making it a visually engaging journey that takes about 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible and popular among locals and visitors alike. While the paved path is suitable for most, you can find softer sand sections on the adjacent beach at low tide. Be aware that the trail can get busy, especially on weekends, so consider an early morning or weekday run for a more serene experience. Parking is available, but it's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot.

What makes this one of the best jogging trails in Santa Barbara is its blend of accessibility and natural beauty. The route offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, from marine life in the ocean to diverse bird species at the refuge. The backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains against the palm-lined coast creates a quintessential Southern California experience, perfect for a refreshing workout or a leisurely jog.

The Mission Bay Bike Path offers a fantastic opportunity for a long, scenic jog around the sparkling waters of Mission Bay in San Diego. This 11.6-mile (18.7 km) loop takes you past palm trees, sandy beaches, and marinas, with continuous views of the bay and landmarks like SeaWorld. The terrain is mostly flat and paved, making it a smooth experience, though you'll encounter a steeper incline over the Mission Bay Channel bridge.

Rated as difficult due to its length, this route involves a sustained effort over 1 hour and 55 minutes, with a minimal 105 feet (32 metres) of elevation gain. It's best to plan your visit for weekdays or early mornings, as the path can become quite crowded with cyclists and other pedestrians, especially on weekends. Public restrooms and amenities are available along the route, and parking can be found at various points around Mission Bay Park.

This Mission Bay Bike Path loop jogging route is celebrated for its refreshing ocean breeze and unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. It's an excellent option for a long, flat, off-road run, and you can even extend your workout by connecting to nearby paths like the Fiesta Island loop or the Mission Beach/Pacific Beach boardwalk. It's a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a substantial workout amidst stunning coastal scenery.

The Lake Miramar Loop Trail offers a delightful escape into nature right within San Diego, providing a consistent and scenic jogging experience. You'll circle the beautiful Lake Miramar on a paved path, with a parallel dirt option for those who prefer it, enjoying continuous lake views and diverse flora like eucalyptus and palms. Keep an eye out for waterfowl and don't miss the stunning panoramic views of La Jolla, Coronado, and the Pacific Ocean from the dam on the western side of this moderate 5.0-mile (8.0 km) route, which typically takes about 55 minutes to complete with a gentle 190 feet (58 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is easy, with free parking and restrooms available near the trailhead and along the route. Since shade is limited, especially during warmer months, remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection. Starting your run earlier in the day is a good idea to avoid the busiest times and enjoy a more peaceful experience on this popular route.

This trail is a true urban oasis, nestled in San Diego's Scripps Miramar Ranch, making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation without venturing far from the city. Its accessible, multi-use nature means it's perfect for joggers, walkers, bikers, and even families with strollers, offering a consistent 5-mile loop that's great for tracking your workout or simply enjoying the natural beauty.