The best running trails around New York

This demanding 12.6-mile (20.2 km) jogging route, rated difficult, offers a deep dive into Central Park's most beloved landscapes, starting conveniently from Grand Central–42nd Street. You'll navigate a mix of paved paths and potentially softer bridle paths, experiencing the park's diverse scenery from the tranquil waters of The Pond to the iconic Bow Bridge. Expect a sustained effort over approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes, with 401 feet (122 metres) of elevation gain, making it ideal for runners seeking a substantial urban workout with scenic rewards.

To tackle this route, simply head west from Grand Central to Fifth Avenue, then north to a Central Park entrance like 59th or 72nd Street. Public transport is readily available at your starting point, making access incredibly easy. No special permits are required for running, but an early morning start is recommended to beat the crowds around popular spots and enjoy the park's serenity before the city fully awakens.

Central Park itself is a masterpiece of landscape architecture, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and urban vistas. This route highlights its cultural significance, taking you past film-famous Bow Bridge and providing stunning views of the Midtown skyline contrasting with lush woodlands. It's a quintessential New York City jogging experience, perfect for those who appreciate a blend of history, nature, and an active challenge.

Discover the varied landscapes of Brooklyn's Prospect Park on this engaging jogging route. The trail guides you through open meadows, past the historic Boathouse reflecting on Prospect Lake, and into the shaded, rugged sections of the Ravine. Expect a mix of paved and natural surfaces, with gentle inclines that add a moderate challenge to this 5.3-mile (8.5 km) loop, which typically takes about 53 minutes to complete.

For your visit, note that the main Park Drive Loop is car-free, providing a serene environment for your run. Water fountains are available seasonally, and restrooms are conveniently located throughout the park. Public transport offers excellent access to the park, making it an easy destination for a city escape.

Designed by the same architects as Central Park, Prospect Park offers a rich blend of ecosystems within an urban setting. The route passes historical points of interest like Battle Pass Hill, adding a layer of cultural significance to your run. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a diverse and accessible jogging trail in New York.

This 7.2-mile (11.6 km) jogging route, the Little Island at Pier 55 – Nelson A. Rockefeller Park loop from Cortlandt Street, offers a truly distinctive urban experience. You'll glide along mostly paved paths, taking in the innovative architecture of Little Island with its rolling hills and diverse plantings, then continue through the lush landscapes of Nelson A. Rockefeller Park. Expect stunning views of the Hudson River, the New Jersey skyline, and even the Statue of Liberty, all while enjoying a refreshing waterfront breeze.

Rated as moderate with a gentle 108 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, this loop can be completed in about 1 hour and 12 minutes. To best enjoy the unique features of Little Island and avoid peak crowds, plan your visit for early morning. The starting point near Cortlandt Street is easily accessible via public transport, making it a convenient option for a scenic city run.

What sets this route apart is the innovative design of Little Island, an artificial "floating park" supported by 132 distinct structures, creating a green oasis in the heart of downtown Manhattan. This trail combines a cultural hub with performance spaces and a significant green space in Nelson A. Rockefeller Park, offering a dynamic and visually engaging jogging experience unlike any other in the city.

If you're looking for a quintessential Central Park experience, the Columbus Circle – Literary Walk loop from 50th Street delivers a scenic and culturally rich jogging route. This moderate 3.9-mile (6.4 km) loop, with a gentle 101 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 39 minutes to complete, guiding you under the majestic American elm trees of the Literary Walk and past statues of renowned writers. It's an ideal choice for a relatively flat, engaging run through one of the city's most iconic green spaces.

Starting conveniently near 50th Street, this route is easily accessible via public transport to Columbus Circle, making it a great option for city dwellers and visitors alike. While Central Park offers amenities like water fountains, it's wise to consider the time of day for your run, as popular areas can become quite busy. This route is perfect for those who appreciate a blend of history, nature, and urban charm in their workout.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Literary Walk holds significant historical importance, designed in 1858 as a formal promenade and gathering space for all New Yorkers. It remains a vibrant cultural hub, often frequented by street performers and connecting to other significant areas like Bethesda Terrace. This makes it a unique running trail that offers more than just exercise; it's a journey through a living piece of New York City's heritage.

This moderate 8.2-mile jogging loop in Van Cortlandt Park offers 444 feet of elevation gain, featuring Van Cortlandt Lake views.

The Laurelton Greenway and North Woodmere Park Loop offers a refreshing jogging experience through varied landscapes in Nassau County. You'll move from well-maintained asphalt paths of the Laurelton Greenway, winding past tranquil "Twin Ponds" and mature trees, into the serene parkland of North Woodmere Park, where lush greenery and river views await. It's a moderate 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route with a gentle 47 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete.

This popular local route is generally accessible due to its low elevation and mostly paved surfaces, though the full loop requires good fitness. North Woodmere Park, a key highlight, provides amenities like sports fields and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a longer outing. Consider starting your jog in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the park gets too busy.

Beyond just a jogging path, the Laurelton Greenway is part of a larger planned greenway system in New York City, aiming to connect significant destinations. North Woodmere Park itself spans over 100 acres, offering a picturesque setting and opportunities for birdwatching across from the Hook Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, adding a touch of nature to your workout.