The best running trails around Aberdeen

Aberdeen and its surrounding area boast a wide variety of running routes. Komoot features over 600 jogging routes, catering to all levels from easy park loops to more challenging forest and hill runs.

Yes, Aberdeen offers several easy routes perfect for beginners. A great option is the Hazlehead Park loop — Aberdeen, an easy 2.7-mile (4.4 km) trail winding through formal gardens and tree groves. Duthie Park also provides a 1.6 km easy route with beautiful gardens.

For longer runs, the Old Deeside Railway Line – Deeside Way — Edge of Aberdeen loop from Aberdeen offers a challenging 15.6-mile (25.1 km) path. The Deeside Way itself is a 66 km traffic-free trail following a former railway line, providing extensive options for long-distance runners.

Absolutely! Aberdeen is known as the "Silver City by the Golden Sands." The Aberdeen Beach – Mercat Cross Aberdeen loop from Aberdeen is a popular 5.6-mile (9.0 km) route featuring the city's beach and Esplanade, offering fantastic coastal views. The coastal path from Cove also provides stunning vistas and opportunities to spot dolphins.

Aberdeen is rich in parks ideal for jogging. Hazlehead Park, with its formal gardens and tree groves, is very popular. Duthie Park offers beautiful gardens and the David Welch Winter Gardens. Seaton Park, located alongside the River Don, is the largest green space in Old Aberdeen, known for its dramatic flowerbeds and river footpaths.

Yes, the city is nestled between the mouths of the River Don and River Dee, offering extensive and picturesque pathways. The River Dee Pathway of Lights provides a scenic 5.64 km route, and trails west from Duthie Park follow the Dee through peaceful trees. The River Don Trail is an 11.58 km route winding through Seaton Park.

For those seeking a challenge, the region offers several forest and hill options. The Kirkhill Fun Park – Tyrebagger Hill Viewing Tower loop from Tyrebagger Wood is a difficult 9.6-mile (15.5 km) route with significant elevation. Other challenging areas include Bennachie and the Hill of Fare.

Many routes in Aberdeen are circular, offering convenient start and end points. Examples include the Hazlehead Park loop — Aberdeen and the Aberdeen Beach – Mercat Cross Aberdeen loop from Aberdeen. The 4-mile Aberdeen beach route is also a relatively flat circular option.

Many routes pass by interesting sights. You can see the historic fishing village of Footdee Beach near the beachfront, or run past the famous Rubislaw Quarry. The Bridge of Dee – Flagpole Mound, Duthie Park loop from Aberdeen takes you past Duthie Park's notable features. Further afield, the Dunnottar Castle Coastal Walk offers stunning views of the castle and North Sea.

Generally, many outdoor areas in Aberdeen, including parks and coastal paths, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife or other users. Always check local signage for specific rules, particularly in nature reserves or protected areas. The extensive riverside and forest trails are often great for running with dogs.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. Parks like Duthie Park and Hazlehead Park offer easy, flat paths that are great for all ages. The 1.6 km trail in Duthie Park, with its beautiful gardens and paddle boating lake, is particularly family-friendly. The Esplanade along Aberdeen Beach is also a flat, accessible option.

The running routes in Aberdeen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 49 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to peaceful riverside trails and expansive parks, highlighting the variety and accessibility for different fitness levels.

Aberdeen offers good jogging opportunities year-round. While Scottish weather can be unpredictable, the city often experiences 'sunny skies' by local standards. Spring and summer provide pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring coastal and park routes. Autumn offers beautiful foliage along riverside and forest trails. Winter running is also possible, with many paths remaining accessible.