Los Angeles is one of the most popular cities to run in America. With numerous trails, parks, and paths, it’s easy to get out there and enjoy your favorite sport.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic route or want to test yourself against other runners, LA has something for everyone.
Here are some of our top picks for places to run in Los Angeles.
Silver Lake Reservoir
Silver Lake Reservoir is one of the best places to run in Los Angeles because of its beautiful scenery and great running conditions. The reservoir is located on the west side of Silverlake Blvd., just north of Sunset Boulevard.
It’s about 2.2 miles long and features a dirt trail with plenty of trees, bushes, and grassy areas for you to take advantage of.
There are also benches along the way that make this an ideal place to stop and rest.
Griffith Park – Mount Hollywood
Griffith Park is one of the most popular running destinations in LA. This running trail is located at the base of Mount Hollywood, which is the highest point in the park.
You can choose from two different routes to complete the course.
One option is to run up the paved path to the peak of Mount Hollywood, while another is to go down the stairs and then climb back up Hollywood Hills.
Either way, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the city and the surrounding area.
This path offers approximately 4.2 miles of the trail making it a great route for the avid runner or training. Located in Los Feliz, Griffith Park is open daily.
The Strand – Santa Monica Pier
The stand is a 22-mile-long running trail that is ideal for intermediate-level runners. This running route runs through downtown Los Angeles and connects many of the major attractions including the beach, museums, restaurants, and more.
The Strand begins at the intersection of Ocean Front Walk and Main Street in Santa Monica. From here, you’ll have access to the pier, the beach, and much more.
If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding experience, The Strand is perfect for you.
The Strand is also only a 2-mile run away from Venice Boardwalk which is a great route for beginners or casual joggers.
Ocean Trails Reserve
Located in Palos Verdes, Ocean Trails Reserve is a 4.5-mile long trail that offers a variety of terrain options. The trail includes both paved and unpaved sections as well as hills and flat stretches.
There are also several water fountains along the route so if you need to cool off after a hard workout, you won’t have to worry about getting too hot.
This destination features a light coastal trail and is suitable for all levels of runners.
Ocean Trails Reserve offers a wide range of amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, drinking fountains, and even a golf course.
If you’re looking for a new adventure, Ocean Trails Reserve is the perfect spot for you. This is a great place to train for your next marathon or half-marathon.
Lake Balboa
Lake Balboa is a picturesque lake located in Van Nuys, Anthony C. Beilenson Park. It has been named one of the best places to run in LA due to its crystal clear waters and scenic surroundings.
If you’re looking to get some exercise in the morning before work, Lake Balboa is the perfect place to do so with around 27-acres to explore.
The lake is home to many species of birds and fish and there are also multiple hiking paths around the lake.
If you want to enjoy the outdoors without having to deal with crowds, Lake Balboa is the place to be. This is an excellent location for those who love nature and wildlife.
Elysian Park – West Loop
This beautiful park is located in Chavez Ravine and is known for being one of the best places in LA to run.
It features a 2.4-mile running trail in a park that provides a great space for jogging and walking and is surrounded by numerous trees, grassy areas, and other natural elements.
Elysian Park is a great place to run with a friend as it’s large enough to accommodate everyone’s needs.
This park is also close to Downtown LA and offers easy access to public transportation. Elysian Park is open every day of the week.
Bluff Trail Park
Bluff Trail Park is another great running destination in Los Angeles. Located in Playa del Rey, this park is home to a 0.5-mile trail that is ideal for beginners.
This well-maintained and mostly flat trail makes for a great training ground for any runner.
You can expect to see plenty of people out on the trail during the warmer months. If you’re looking forward to enjoying the outdoors while working out, Bluff Trail Park is the perfect place for you.
This is an excellent destination for those who enjoy running in parks.
Palisades Park
Located in Santa Monica, Palisades Park is ideal for intermediate runners. This destination offers a 3-mile loop that is made up of paved pathways.
The trail is a great place to go when you don’t feel like dealing with crowds. Palisades Park is close to the sea providing a clear sea breeze and spectacular views.
If you’re looking for a nice and relaxing place to run in the city, Palisades Park should definitely be on your list.
This is a great destination for anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors and take advantage of the scenery.
Veterans Parkway
Veterans Parkway is another coastal running destination located at Hermosa Beach. This running destination is recognized for offering beautiful ocean views.
Veterans Parkway is a 3.75-mile path that is ideal for all running levels.
There are several trails throughout Veterans Parkway which make it easier to find your preferred route.
If you’re looking for something more challenging than just a leisurely jog, Veterans Parkway is the perfect spot for you.
This destination features dirt paths that are suitable for beginners. If you’re looking into running in LA, Veterans Parkway is an excellent choice. This is a great location for those who prefer running along the coast.
Echo Park Lake
Echo Park Lake is a gorgeous running destination located in Echo Park. This lake is home to various types of waterfowl including ducks, geese, and swans.
Echo Park Lake is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. If you want to experience the urban wilderness at its finest, Echo Park Lake is the perfect place for your next outdoor adventure.
This destination has a 1-mile trail around the lake which is perfect for beginners.
If you’re looking to get some exercise without having to deal with the hustle and bustle of downtown LA, Echo Park Lake is a fantastic option as this is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and run in peace.
Final Considerations
Los Angeles is a great place to live if you love running. With so many options available, there is no shortage of places where you can run.
However, if you’re looking for a specific type of running destination, you will need to consider what you want from your running experience.
For example, if you’re looking to train for a marathon, then you’ll need to look for a destination that varies in terrain.
On the other hand, if you’re looking into running for fun, then you’ll need a destination that doesn’t have too much traffic or crowds.
Regardless of what you’re looking for, Los Angeles is a great place for you to enjoy running. These destinations offer everything you could possibly need and more, from scenic routes to coastal paths.
For the first year, I wallowed in my feelings and gained 50 pounds as a result. The next year, with the help of a professional or two, I began working on myself and seeing changes.
Surprisingly enough, I found running to be my main source of comfort in such a trying time. I began running once a day for five minutes, working up to 10, then 20, 30, 40 - until I was running for an hour each morning.
Running started my day off right and on the days where I ran, I found that I was more likely to excel in work and have a better day mentally.
So, that is why I have created Run In The Sun. I want to make your running journey as easy as possible so that you can feel these benefits too. I promise you, it will be so worth it!
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