The best running trails around New Orleans
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Jogging around New Orleans offers a unique experience across its largely flat terrain, characterized by scenic riverfronts, historic urban parks, and shaded avenues. The city's natural features, including the Mississippi River and Bayou St. John, provide diverse backdrops for running. Many routes are lined with ancient Live Oak trees, offering natural shade, while expansive green spaces like City Park and Audubon Park feature extensive networks of paths.
Best jogging routes around New Orleans
- The most popular jogging route is Steamboat Natchez – Washington Artillery Park loop from New Orleans, a 6.2 miles (10.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 1 minute to complete, offering views along the Mississippi River.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Woldenberg Riverfront Park – Jackson Square loop from New Orleans, an easy 2.4 miles (3.8 km) path. This route provides iconic views of the river and historic landmarks.
- Local runners also love the Audubon Park loop from Tulane University, a 3.0 miles (4.8 km) trail leading through a historic urban park, often completed in about 30 minutes.
- Jogging around New Orleans is defined by riverfront paths, historic parks, and shaded avenues. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging running experiences.
- The routes in New Orleans are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 2,500 runners have used komoot to explore New Orleans's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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15.0km
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Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is located in New Orleans' Garden District and was established in 1833. On a single block, there are approximately 1,100 family plots, many of which have been used for generations. The cemetery is known for its dense development, clearly structured pathways, and some of the elaborately designed gravesites. The site has been used as a filming location several times: scenes for Interview with the Vampire, Double Jeopardy, The Originals, and Dracula 2000, among others, were shot here.
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Super great aquarium 🥰 I was totally thrilled and can only recommend it
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The Audubon Aquarium is a large aquarium that originally opened in 1990 and is constantly voted as one of the best in the country. The aquarium has a wide range of exhibitions, including a Caribbean reef exhibit and an Amazon exhibit.
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The Cabildo is a museum set in an elegant Spanish colonial building. The building used to be the Spanish colonial city hall and now is the home of many American artifacts and artwork.
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I can only agree with "Biene" ☺️ a steamboat ride is an absolute MUST and also fantastically beautiful and relaxing
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It is relaxing to treat yourself to a little break in the beautiful park before diving back into city life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in New Orleans?
New Orleans offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 140 routes documented on komoot. These include 17 easy routes perfect for a relaxed jog, 111 moderate routes for a good workout, and 18 more challenging trails for experienced runners.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in New Orleans?
The running routes in New Orleans are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 30 reviews. Runners often praise the scenic riverfront paths, the historic urban parks, and the unique atmosphere of jogging through areas shaded by ancient Live Oak trees.
Are there running trails suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, New Orleans has several easy and family-friendly running paths. For instance, the Woldenberg Riverfront Park – Jackson Square loop from New Orleans is an easy 2.4-mile path offering iconic views. Audubon Park also features a 1.8-mile paved path that is generally flat and well-suited for all ages and fitness levels.
Can I find shaded running paths in New Orleans?
Absolutely. Many of New Orleans's running routes benefit from natural shade provided by historic Live Oak trees. Audubon Park, City Park, and Esplanade Avenue are particularly known for their tree-lined paths, offering a cooler experience, especially during warmer months.
What are some scenic running routes with historical landmarks?
For a run rich in history and views, consider routes along the Mississippi Riverfront. The Steamboat Natchez – Washington Artillery Park loop from New Orleans offers views of the river and historic areas. You can also explore routes near the French Quarter, passing landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral.
Are there any running routes that are loops or circular?
Yes, many popular running routes in New Orleans are designed as loops, making them convenient for runners. Examples include the Audubon Park loop from Tulane University, which is a 3.0-mile trail, and the Steamboat Natchez – Woldenberg Riverfront Park loop from New Orleans, a moderate 4.5-mile option.
Are there running routes with amenities like water fountains or restrooms?
Yes, several major parks in New Orleans provide amenities for runners. Audubon Park and City Park, for instance, are well-equipped with restrooms, water fountains, and even exercise equipment along their paths. The Lafitte Greenway is also fully lit and includes exercise stations.
What are the seasonal considerations for running in New Orleans?
New Orleans's terrain is generally flat, which is great for running. However, summer months can be very hot and humid. It's advisable to run early in the morning or late in the evening during these times, stay hydrated, and choose shaded routes. Spring and fall offer more temperate conditions for outdoor activities.
Are there dog-friendly running routes in New Orleans?
Many of New Orleans's public parks and green spaces are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. Areas like Audubon Park, City Park, and the Lafitte Greenway are popular choices for runners with dogs, offering open spaces and paved paths. Always check specific park regulations for any restrictions.
Can I access running routes using public transport?
Public transport is a convenient way to reach many running spots in New Orleans. For example, the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line provides access to Audubon Park and offers a unique urban jogging experience along its route. City Park and the Lafitte Greenway are also accessible via various bus lines.
Where can I find longer running trails in New Orleans?
For longer runs, consider the Mississippi River levee trail, which extends for nearly 60 miles from various access points, including behind Audubon Park. City Park also offers an extensive network of trails across its 1,300 acres, allowing for extended runs by combining different paths.
Most popular routes around New Orleans
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