The best running trails in Franklin County

The Riverfront Trail loop from Columbia Point South offers a fantastic opportunity for a long, scenic jog along the Columbia River. This 11.6-mile (18.6 km) route, while rated difficult due to its length, presents a mostly flat and paved surface with only 170 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain, making it a sustained but accessible effort that can be completed in about 1 hour and 54 minutes. You'll pass through several beautiful parks, including Columbia Point Marina Park and Howard Amon Park, and enjoy views of the Yakima and Columbia rivers' confluence, with public art installations adding visual interest along the way.

Planning your visit is easy, as there's ample parking at locations like Columbia Point Marina Park, and the trail is dog-friendly for leashed pets. The presence of mileage markers on the pavement, particularly from Columbia Point, helps you track your progress. The refreshing breeze off the Columbia River makes this an especially pleasant route during warmer weather, providing a comfortable environment for your run.

This trail is a key segment of the extensive 23-mile Sacagawea Heritage Trail, which encircles the Tri-Cities area, offering a broader network for exploration. The area around Columbia Point itself carries historical significance as a former Native American village, adding a layer of cultural depth to your outdoor experience. Keep an eye out for various bird species, as wildlife spotting is common along the riverfront.

The Riverfront Trail – Columbia Point Marina Park loop from Columbia Point South offers a fantastic jogging experience, guiding you along the scenic Columbia River. You'll cruise on mostly paved paths, enjoying continuous water views, public art, and abundant shade trees as you pass through popular spots like Howard Amon Park and Leslie Groves Park. This route is a moderate 6.0-mile (9.7 km) journey with a gentle 85 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain, making it a refreshing and accessible option for a quick 1-hour run.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with plenty of parking available at Columbia Point Marina Park, which also provides restrooms and other amenities. The trail is well-marked with mileage from Columbia Point, helping you track your progress. While you won't need permits, consider visiting during the morning or late afternoon, especially in warmer months, to enjoy cooler temperatures and a pleasant breeze off the river.

This popular route is part of the larger Sacagawea Heritage Trail, offering connections for longer adventures if you desire. A notable feature along the way is the USS Triton Submarine Memorial Park, where you can see the sail of a decommissioned nuclear submarine, adding a unique historical landmark to your run. The trail's accessibility and diverse scenery make it a favorite among locals and a great choice for family walking trails or dog-friendly jogging.

The Riverfront Trail loop from Richland offers a delightful jogging experience, tracing the banks of the Columbia River with continuous scenic views. You'll pass through several well-maintained parks, including Columbia Point Marina Park and Howard Amon Park, enjoying green spaces, public art, and even glimpses of wildlife like deer and pheasants. The trail is predominantly paved, providing a smooth surface for your run, though some sections may introduce gravel and dirt, adding a bit of variety to the terrain.

This moderate 4.9-mile (7.9 km) jogging route, with a gentle 72 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 49 minutes to complete. Restrooms are available at key points like Columbia Point Marina Park and Leslie Groves Park, making it convenient for longer outings. While mostly flat, be aware of gentle inclines and some potentially uneven asphalt, particularly north of Howard Amon Park. It's a great option for a refreshing run or a family-friendly jog, with plenty of amenities along the way.

As a significant part of the larger 23-mile Sacagawea Heritage Trail, this loop offers a taste of the Tri-Cities' extensive trail network. A unique highlight is the USS Triton Submarine Memorial Park at the northern end, featuring a decommissioned nuclear submarine's sail and historical insights into the Hanford Site. The trail also boasts playgrounds, benches, and picnic areas, making it a versatile destination for both active pursuits and leisurely enjoyment by the river.

This running loop from West Pasco offers a long, consistent jog along the scenic Columbia River, providing a refreshing escape with open views. You'll primarily follow paved pathways, which are characteristic of the riverfront trails in this area, making for a smooth and predictable surface underfoot. It's a great way to experience the riverine environment and open park spaces that define the landscape here.

For this difficult 10.7-mile (17.1 km) route, which includes 82 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 46 minutes, consider starting early in the morning or later in the evening. This helps avoid the warmest parts of the day, especially during summer conditions. Parking is typically found at various access points along the river, often within local park areas.

This route is part of the broader network of jogging routes around Pasco, Washington, which often connect to the prominent Sacagawea Heritage Trail. The Sacagawea Heritage Trail itself is a 23-mile paved loop that links the Tri-Cities, offering extensive options for runners. This particular loop provides a substantial workout while showcasing the region's river-centric natural beauty.