Phoenix might be known for its desert landscapes, but its urban running scene is just as impressive. It offers routes that combine the buzz of the city with the beauty of nature. Read on to discover running routes that will make every step unforgettable.
Papago Park
Papago Park, located in the heart of Phoenix, is another excellent destination for scenic running. This park is known for its unique geological formations, including the famous Hole-in-the-Rock, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding desert. The park’s trails are well-maintained and provide a mix of flat and hilly terrain, making it suitable for runners of all levels. With its central location and beautiful scenery, Papago Park is a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Double Butte Loop
This route is one of the most popular trails within Papago Park. This 2.3-mile loop is perfect for a quick 5K run, offering a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines. The trail winds around the park’s iconic buttes, providing stunning views of the red sandstone formations and the surrounding desert landscape. As you run along the Double Butte Loop, you’ll pass by the Hole-in-the-Rock, a natural geological formation that offers a unique vantage point for viewing the city. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great choice for a scenic and enjoyable run.
Crosscut Canal Path
For those looking for a longer and more challenging route, the Crosscut Canal Path offers a great option. This 8-mile trail runs along the canal that connects Papago Park to the nearby Tempe Town Lake, making it ideal for 10K and half marathon training. The trail is mostly flat, with a few gentle inclines, and offers beautiful views of the canal and the surrounding desert. As you run along the Crosscut Canal Path, you’ll pass by several parks and green spaces, providing plenty of opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the area. The trail is well-maintained and provides a smooth and enjoyable running experience.
Tempe Town Lake
Tempe Town Lake is a man-made reservoir located just east of Phoenix in the city of Tempe. This popular recreational area offers a variety of trails that are perfect for running, walking, and cycling. The lake is surrounded by parks, green spaces, and scenic viewpoints, making it a great destination for outdoor exercise. The flat, paved trails around Tempe Town Lake are ideal for runners of all levels and provide a beautiful backdrop for your run.
Tempe Town Lake Loop
The Tempe Town Lake Loop is a 5-mile trail that circles the entire lake, making it perfect for both 5K and 10K runs. The trail is flat and paved, providing a smooth and easy running surface. As you run along the Tempe Town Lake Loop, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the lake, the surrounding parks, and the city skyline. The trail is well-lit and well-maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable option for both daytime and evening runs. Tempe Town Lake is also home to several annual running events, including the Tempe Town Lake Half Marathon, making it a popular destination for local runners.
Rio Salado Pathway
For those looking for a longer and more challenging route, the Rio Salado Pathway offers a great option. This 15-mile trail runs along the Salt River, connecting Tempe Town Lake to the nearby cities of Phoenix and Mesa. The trail is mostly flat, with a few gentle inclines, and offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding desert landscape. As you run along the Rio Salado Pathway, you’ll pass by several parks, bridges, and scenic viewpoints, providing plenty of opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the area. The trail is well-maintained and provides a smooth and enjoyable running experience.
Arizona Canal Trail
The Arizona Canal Trail is a popular running route that stretches for over 68 miles, connecting the cities of Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Glendale. This multi-use trail runs alongside the Arizona Canal, providing a flat, paved surface that is perfect for running, walking, and cycling. The Arizona Canal Trail offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, making it a versatile and enjoyable option for runners of all levels.
Scottsdale
One of the most popular sections of the Arizona Canal Trail runs through the city of Scottsdale. This 8-mile stretch offers beautiful views of the canal, the surrounding parks, and the city skyline, making it ideal for 10K and half marathon training. The trail is flat and well-maintained, providing a smooth and easy running surface. As you run along the Scottsdale section of the Arizona Canal Trail, you’ll pass by several parks, green spaces, and scenic viewpoints, providing plenty of opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the area. The trail is well-lit and safe, making it a great option for both daytime and evening runs.
Phoenix section
For those looking for a longer and more challenging route, the Phoenix section of the Arizona Canal Trail offers a great option. This 15-mile stretch runs through the heart of the city, providing a mix of urban and natural scenery. The trail is flat and paved, making it ideal for long-distance runs and half marathon training. As you run along the Phoenix section of the Arizona Canal Trail, you’ll pass by several parks, bridges, and scenic viewpoints, providing plenty of opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the area. The trail is well-maintained and provides a smooth and enjoyable running experience.
Phoenix’s urban running routes offer a blend of city energy and natural beauty that’s hard to beat. But they’re also spaces to connect with your community, clear your mind, and push your limits.Are you ready to take your running to the next level? Join the Best Races Running Club and become part of a supportive community that celebrates every mile, from your first 5K to your next big race. Let’s hit the pavement together — we’ll see you on the trail!
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