The best running trails around Métropole de Lyon

Métropole de Lyon offers a vast network for runners, with over 1,600 routes available. These range from easy, flat paths to challenging trails with significant elevation changes, catering to all fitness levels.

Yes, Métropole de Lyon has nearly 200 easy running routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog. A great option is the Parc de la Tête d'Or, which features a 3.8 km flat, paved trail around its perimeter. You can explore a longer, moderate loop like College Footbridge – Lake of Parc de la Tête d'Or loop from Cordeliers, which is 11.7 km.

For those seeking a challenge, the hills surrounding Lyon offer excellent options. The Monts d'Or, just northwest of the city, provides varied elevations and wooded paths. A difficult route like The Monts d’Or covers 21.5 km with over 790 meters of ascent. Fourvière and Croix-Rousse hills within the city also offer intensive cardio training with steep ascents and panoramic views.

Many routes in Métropole de Lyon offer beautiful scenery. The redeveloped banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers provide clear views of Lyon's architecture. For panoramic city views, consider routes around Fourvière Hill. The Monts d'Or also feature accessible trails with breathtaking vistas. For a mix of urban and natural beauty, try the Saint Vincent Footbridge – Saône Riverbanks loop from Bellecour, a 26.3 km difficult route along the river.

Absolutely. Urban parks like Parc de la Tête d'Or and Parc de Gerland are ideal for family runs, offering wide, safe paths and plenty of space. The Parc de la Feyssine also provides a vast natural environment with trails suitable for families looking for a less frequented, wilder feel.

Yes, many running routes in Métropole de Lyon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Popular circular options include the perimeter of Parc de la Tête d'Or, or the expansive 10k lake loop at Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. The Lake Miribel route is a challenging 17.7 km loop.

Métropole de Lyon's running routes often pass by interesting landmarks. Along the Saône riverbanks, you might spot the Île Barbe Bridge. In the Monts d'Or area, you can find historical sites like Fort du Paillet or Rochetaillée-sur-Saône Castle. The city's hills, like Fourvière, offer views of Roman arenas and other historical elements.

Many of Lyon's running routes are easily accessible via public transport. The riverside paths along the Rhône and Saône, as well as major urban parks like Parc de la Tête d'Or and Parc de Gerland, are well-served by Lyon's extensive bus, tram, and metro networks. This makes it convenient to reach your starting point without a car.

The running routes in Métropole de Lyon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from the flat, scenic riverside paths to the challenging hilly trails, and the abundance of green spaces within and around the city.

Yes, the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers provides extensive opportunities for waterside running. The redeveloped Berges du Rhône offer a 7 km stretch, while the pedestrian path along the Saône extends 11 km from Île Barbe to the Confluence. A moderate route like The banks of the Yzeron also offers pleasant waterside jogging.

For shorter, moderate loops within the city, consider routes around the larger parks or along specific river sections. The Lake Shore – Gate of the Children of the Rhône loop from Caluire-et-Cuire is a moderate 8.2 km route. Another option is the Saint Vincent Footbridge – Quai Saint Vincent loop from Bellecour, which is 7.9 km.

Absolutely. Just a few kilometers northwest of Lyon, the Monts d'Or provide a fantastic playground for trail enthusiasts with over a hundred routes. Further afield, the Monts du Lyonnais (30 minutes west) and the Pilat Massif (south of Lyon) offer extensive trail running opportunities with diverse terrain and magnificent panoramic views.