The best running trails in Nevada County

Embark on the Donner Lake loop for a moderate jogging experience that takes you around 6.8 miles (10.9 km) of scenic terrain. You will gain 259 feet (79 metres) in elevation, typically completing the route in about 1 hour and 9 minutes. As you jog, you will enjoy picturesque views of Donner Lake, nestled against the Sierra Nevada mountains, and pass through peaceful mixed conifer forests.

For your visit, the Donner Lake loop is an easy-to-follow route, making it accessible for many joggers. You will find public docks, beaches, and other amenities conveniently located around the lake, especially within Donner Memorial State Park. Parking is generally available, providing straightforward access to start your run.

This route offers a historically rich experience, tracing a path around a lake with significant past events. The paved loop provides a smooth surface for jogging, with rolling hills, particularly on the southern side of the lake, adding a gentle challenge to your workout. Keep an eye out for seasonal wildflowers that can add extra color to your journey.

Embark on a moderate jogging route through the Donner Memorial State Park Nature Trail Loop, covering 3.2 miles (5.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 129 feet (39 metres). You will wind through peaceful mixed pine and fir forests, experiencing the serene natural environment of the Sierra Nevada. Keep an eye out for picturesque views of Donner Lake and enjoy the unique boardwalk section along Donner Creek, offering a refreshing blend of natural beauty.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking generally available within Donner Memorial State Park. Remember that the park is situated at about 6,000 feet, so you should be prepared for mountain weather conditions. Please note that pets are typically not permitted on the Nature Trail itself, so plan accordingly for your companions.

This route offers a unique opportunity to connect with both nature and history. As you jog, you will encounter the historic Murphy Cabin site, which adds a layer of profound historical significance to your outdoor experience. The trail is an excellent way to explore the park's natural beauty while also reflecting on its rich past, making it a notable option for a quick 35-minute outing.

Jog the moderate 4.0-mile Hardrock and Osborne Hill Loop Trail through historic Empire Mine State Historic Park, gaining 395 feet.

Embark on a challenging jogging adventure along the Mount Judah Loop Trail, a difficult route spanning 4.8 miles (7.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1063 feet (324 metres). This trail offers a rewarding experience, winding through pine forests and leading you to spectacular panoramic views. You can expect to complete this invigorating loop in about 1 hour and 8 minutes, making it a perfect test of endurance.

When planning your visit, be aware that parts of the route are exposed to bright sunlight, so consider jogging early morning or late afternoon, especially on warmer days. The trail is generally considered moderately difficult, with some steeper sections and gravelly footing, particularly around Mount Judah. Parking is conveniently available at the Donner Peak Trailhead, which is also a junction for the Pacific Crest Trail.

As you jog, you will be treated to expansive vistas of Donner Lake and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. The trail offers particularly amazing views from Donner Peak and the 360-degree panorama from the summit of Mount Judah, where you can clearly spot distant peaks like Anderson Peak and Tinker Knob. A notable section of your journey will also take you along a portion of the famous Pacific Crest Trail, adding a unique element to your outing.

Lace up your shoes for a refreshing jogging experience on the Truckee River Legacy Trail, a moderate 3.4-mile (5.4 km) route that follows the scenic river. You will gain a gentle 80 feet (24 metres) of elevation, making it a pleasant outing that takes about 33 minutes to complete. As you move along the paved path, you will enjoy continuous views of the Truckee River, often framed by the distant High Sierra Crest, providing a beautiful backdrop for your run.

This accessible trail is a great option for year-round activity, as it is regularly plowed during winter months, ensuring you can still get out even when other routes are snow-covered. You will find amenities like picnic tables and benches along the way, perfect for a quick break. The trail is also ADA accessible and welcomes pets, with waste bags conveniently provided at various points.

The Truckee River Legacy Trail stands out as a multi-use path that offers more than just exercise; it provides an educational journey. Interpretive signs are placed along the route, sharing insights into the local history and natural environment. This makes your jogging session not only physically rewarding but also an opportunity to learn about the area's unique heritage and ecology.

Jog the Scotts Flat Trail, a moderate 9.1-mile route through Tahoe National Forest with forest views and lakeside access.

Jog this moderate 7.1-mile loop in Waddle Ranch Preserve, featuring scenic Lake Ella and Martis Creek Lake views with varied terrain.

Jog the 5.2-mile Sagehen Creek Trail Loop through pine forests and meadows, enjoying wildflowers and views of Stampede Reservoir.

Jog the moderate 5.6-mile Lake Spaulding via Pioneer Trail in Tahoe National Forest, featuring waterfalls, forest, and lake views.