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Running Trails
United States
Florida
Polk County

Kathleen

The best running trails around Kathleen

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 30, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Kathleen, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and paths, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where komoot comes in. Our community has explored, mapped, and reviewed the best jogging routes here, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the ones that truly deliver.

Jogging around Kathleen means embracing that classic "Old Florida" charm. You'll find yourself amidst rural landscapes, often shaded by mature oak canopies, with mostly flat terrain that's perfect for steady runs. The area offers a good mix, from easy local paths to more moderate loops, and even a few routes that offer a bit more challenge. Expect the welcome shade of those oaks to be a real bonus during warmer months.

If you only do one route, we'd start with the Central Loops Trail. At 5.0 miles (8.1 km), it offers a fantastic moderate challenge that really captures the local landscape. For a scenic lakeside experience, the Lake Bonnet loop from Henley Field is a local favorite, a moderate 4.3 miles (7.0 km) that’s perfect for a refreshing run. Dive into these routes and discover why more than 145 runners have already used komoot to explore Kathleen's trails.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Central Loops Trail
  2. 2

    Lake Bonnet loop from Henley Field
  3. 3

    Lake Hollingsworth – Lake Hollingsworth loop from Lakeland

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Central Loops Trail

8.12 km

10 m

Moderate

Lake Bonnet loop from Henley Field

6.97 km

40 m

Moderate

Lake Hollingsworth – Lake Hollingsworth loop from Lakeland

6.34 km

30 m

Moderate

Running loop from Lakeland

3.04 km

10 m

Easy

Lake Hollingsworth loop from Lakeland

6.84 km

40 m

Moderate

Lake Hollingsworth – Lake Morton loop from Lakeland

7.22 km

50 m

Moderate

Lake Mirror – Lake Wire loop from Florida Southern College

14.4 km

60 m

Moderate

Lake Morton loop from Lakeland

5.22 km

30 m

Moderate

Lake Hollingsworth – Lake Hollingsworth loop from Lakeland

11.0 km

50 m

Moderate

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1.

Central Loops Trail

8.12km

00:58

10m

10m

The Central Loops Trail offers a serene jogging experience through the natural beauty of the Lower Green Swamp Preserve. You'll navigate a well-maintained path, enjoying the peaceful forest surroundings and crossing a charming foot bridge over a stream. It's a great way to immerse yourself in Florida's natural landscape without encountering significant elevation changes, making for a smooth and enjoyable run.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is generally accessible, but consider heading out in the cooler parts of the day, especially during the warmer seasons. Always bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. This route is perfect for those seeking a consistent, low-stress workout in a tranquil setting.

This trail is a fantastic option for anyone looking for popular jogging routes that are family-friendly and offer a gentle introduction to trail running. Its minimal elevation gain and moderate difficulty make it approachable for many, providing a refreshing break from urban environments. The Central Loops Trail system is a local gem for consistent exercise.

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2.

Lake Bonnet loop from Henley Field

6.97km

00:43

40m

40m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.

Lake Hollingsworth – Lake Hollingsworth loop from Lakeland

6.34km

00:39

30m

30m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.

Lake Hollingsworth loop from Lakeland

6.84km

00:43

40m

40m

The Lake Hollingsworth loop offers a consistently pleasant experience for joggers and walkers alike, circling the scenic Lake Hollingsworth. The paved path provides a smooth surface, perfect for a steady pace, with continuous views of the water and glimpses of Florida Southern College's distinctive architecture. Keep an eye out for various waterbirds, making it a great spot for wildlife sightings.

This moderate 4.2-mile (6.8 km) route has a gentle 123 feet (38 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 42 minutes to complete. Given the limited shade along the path, planning your visit for early morning or late afternoon is advisable, especially in Florida's warmer climate. The trail is well-equipped with benches and water fountains for convenience.

Beyond its appeal as a Lakeland jogging route, the Lake Hollingsworth loop is a vibrant community hub, frequently used for group runs and college waterfront programs. Its accessibility, with a flat and paved Lake Hollingsworth loop terrain, makes it welcoming for all ages and abilities, including those with strollers or wheelchairs, solidifying its reputation as one of Lakeland's most cherished outdoor spaces.

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Tips from the Community

Andrus
August 7, 2024, Lake Hollingsworth

This 354 acre lake is a popular place for walking, running, and cycling. The lake is also well known among birders, as it attracts a dizzying array of bird species

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Lake Hollingsworth spans 354 acres and is a highly popular reservoir for biking, walking, and running. The approximately 3-mile trail encircling it offers magnificent views of the water from all angles. At times, this area becomes filled with birds, creating a truly unique sight.

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Beautiful, small foot bridge over a stream. It is a great place to take a break and see if you can spot anything in the water below!

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mtm05005
May 27, 2024, Central Loop

This is one of the most popular trails in Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve. It is a fairly straightforward trail, that can be sandy at times, but it rewards you with great views. The trail is used by hikers, runners and horseback riders, so make sure you are respectful of other trail users.

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Previously known as the Cone Ranch, Lower Green Swamp Preserve is over 12,000 acres of forest and swamp land. The preserve is protected and run by the county, so it is open for public use. There are over 5 miles of hiking and running trails to choose from that bring you past several streams and swamps.

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Matthew
February 21, 2024, Lake Hollingsworth

At 354 acres, Lake Hollingsworth is a popular reservoir to run around. There is a roughly 3-mile loop that circles the water that also provides access to Thomas B. Mack Park. The path is paved but doesn't offer a lot of shade, so the best times to run are around sunrise and sunset.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many running routes are available in Kathleen?

Kathleen offers a selection of 8 running routes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. These include easy, moderate, and difficult options, ensuring there's a suitable path for every runner.

Are there easy running routes for beginners in Kathleen?

Yes, Kathleen has 2 easy running routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog. An example is the Running loop from Lakeland, which is about 3.0 miles (4.8 km) long and features minimal elevation changes.

What kind of scenery can I expect on running routes around Kathleen?

Running routes around Kathleen offer a blend of beautiful rural landscapes, green spaces, and natural preserves. You can expect serene agricultural backdrops, including former citrus groves, and accessible local parks. The broader Polk County area also provides trails through scenic wetlands and diverse wildlife habitats.

Are there any circular running routes in Kathleen?

Many of the running routes in and around Kathleen are designed as loops, offering convenient circular paths. A popular choice is the Central Loops Trail, which is a 5.0-mile (8.1 km) moderate loop through local landscapes.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions near the running trails?

While jogging in Kathleen, you can find several natural attractions nearby. These include various lakes such as Lake Hollingsworth, Lake Morton, and Lake Parker. Additionally, the Lower Green Swamp Preserve offers extensive natural beauty.

Can I find dog-friendly running trails in Kathleen?

Kathleen's rural landscapes and local parks generally welcome dogs, though specific trail rules may vary. It's always best to check local signage or park regulations for leash requirements. Many of the multi-use trails in Polk County, such as the Fort Fraser Trail, are popular with dog walkers and runners.

Are there family-friendly running options in Kathleen?

Yes, Kathleen offers several family-friendly running options. Local parks like the Kathleen Area Sports Complex and Hunt Fountain Park provide walking trails suitable for families. The broader Polk County also features multi-use trails like the Fort Fraser Trail, which are great for all ages and skill levels.

What do other runners say about the trails in Kathleen?

The running routes in Kathleen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the serene rural environment and the variety of accessible paths that cater to different experiences.

Are there running routes accessible by public transport in Kathleen?

Kathleen is primarily a rural area, and direct public transport access to specific trailheads might be limited. Most runners typically rely on personal vehicles to reach the starting points of trails and parks in the region. It's advisable to plan your transport accordingly.

Where can I find parking for running trails in Kathleen?

Parking is generally available at local parks and trailheads throughout Kathleen and the wider Polk County area. For instance, parks like the Kathleen Area Sports Complex and Hunt Fountain Park offer designated parking. For trails like the Fort Fraser Trail, there are usually parking areas at various access points along its length.

Are there longer running trails for more experienced runners?

Yes, for experienced runners seeking longer distances, Kathleen and its surrounding areas offer several options. While the immediate routes in Kathleen are up to 5.0 miles, the broader Polk County features trails like the Auburndale TECO Trail (7.3 miles paved) and the Fort Fraser Trail (7.75 miles multi-use), providing more extensive running opportunities.

What is the best time of year to go running in Kathleen?

The cooler months from late fall through early spring (roughly November to April) are generally considered the best time for running in Kathleen, Florida. During this period, temperatures are more moderate and comfortable, avoiding the intense heat and humidity of the summer months.

Can I find running routes that offer views of lakes?

Absolutely! Several running routes in the Kathleen area provide scenic views of lakes. For example, the Lake Bonnet loop from Lakeland offers picturesque views of Lake Bonnet. Another popular choice is the Lake Hollingsworth loop from Lakeland, which circles the beautiful Lake Hollingsworth.

Are there paved running paths in Kathleen?

Yes, while Kathleen features many natural and rural trails, the broader Polk County area, which Kathleen is part of, offers paved options. The Auburndale TECO Trail is a notable 7.3-mile paved path, and the Fort Fraser Trail is another multi-use trail that includes paved sections suitable for running.

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