Whether you’re heading to the west coast for business or leisure, a variety of scenic running trails awaits you in Seattle, WA, Portland, OR, and San Francisco, CA. There’s a destination for both short strolls and long runs. These jogging hot spots will get you off the couch and immersed into nature just in time for Spring.
SEATTLE, WA
Washington Park Arboretum
Take the scenic route in the Arboretum’s maze of well-kept trails. Washington Park Arboretum is a part of the University of Washington's Botanic Gardens and showcases more than 20,000 plants. Enjoy breathtaking views of the meadows and small lakes. The route along Azalea Way is three miles round-trip. Feel free to venture onto the park’s plethora of connecting trails and stop to relax on one of the many benches along the way. (Perhach)
Rattlesnake Ledge
With an elevation gain of 1,160 ft, it can be a difficult run to the top of this 4-mile loop. After reaching the rock bluff, you will see a glistening lake with the surrounding mountains, a truly picturesque view that also includes Mount Si. With such beauty, this route can get quite busy, so head out early if you’re looking to escape the crowds. (Perhach)
PORTLAND, OR
Tryon Creek
This running trail is located next to Lewis & Clark College. Once you enter this 658-acre park, you will immediately be immersed in nature. What can you expect to see? While running, you will pass massive conifers covered in moss, a sparkling creek, along with mushrooms and various other foliage. Enjoy eight miles of hiking trails. Some of the trails are paved if you don't want to get muddy. More adventurous visitors are welcome to venture onto the unpaved areas. (Wilkinson)
Mt. Tabor
Mt. Tabor is located in Southeast Portland.This paved trail has both hills and a flat loop. The paved reservoir loop is just over a half a mile and the entire distance is flat. For those looking for a more intense workout, you can run up the summit of this inactive volcano, from there you can see parts of downtown Portland and spectacular views of the mountains. If you're looking for an additional challenge, this trail has a daunting set of stairs to climb. (Wilkinson)
SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Crissy Field
Crissy Field is an easy six-mile loop starting at the Safeway on Marina Boulevard. Unlike many other running trails in San Francisco, it's the perfect place to run because it's entirely flat. The views can't be beat on this running route. Throughout this scenic run, you’ll be able to see the Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and a variety of wildlife, including heron. On chilly days there's a warming hut that sells coffee. After a long run, visit the Farmer's Market across the street. (Pissone)
Ocean Beach
This beach stretches across three miles and is relatively flat, with a few inclines and declines. Running along the beach offers majestic views of the ocean, but it can be quite cold and windy most days on this trail. On sunny days you can run along the Great Highway on the paved path. One of the best perks of this route is it's not typically very crowded, which allows for unobstructed views of the vast ocean. (Pissone)
https://fitt.co/portland/best-run-portland/
https://fitt.co/san-francisco/best-trails-run-routes-san-francisco/
https://www.thrillist.com/lifestyle/seattle/beautiful-running-routes-in-seattle-best-places-to-run