The best running trails around San Carlos

The North end viewpoint – Lake Road Trail loop from Belmont offers a refreshing jogging experience, guiding you through a landscape that promises a rewarding North end viewpoint. Expect a mix of terrain as you navigate this loop, with the Lake Road Trail likely providing its own distinct character, perhaps with glimpses of water or more shaded sections. It's a route designed to keep your run engaging from start to finish.

This moderate 8.9-mile (14.4 km) loop, with its 799 feet (244 metres) of elevation gain, is a great choice for joggers seeking a good workout that can be completed in around 1 hour and 39 minutes. While specific logistical details like parking or public transport are not provided, it's always recommended to check local conditions and plan for adequate hydration, especially during warmer months.

This trail is ideal for those who appreciate a moderate challenge and the satisfaction of reaching a scenic overlook. The combination of a named viewpoint and a distinct Lake Road Trail suggests a well-established route that offers both physical exertion and visual rewards, making it a notable option among Belmont's jogging trails.

This Running loop from San Carlos offers a refreshing escape into the local landscape, providing a moderate 4.9-mile (7.9 km) jog with 261 feet (80 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect a pleasant mix of terrain, potentially winding through areas with views of rolling golden hills and even distant glimpses of the San Francisco Bay. It's a well-rounded route that provides a good workout in about 49 minutes, ideal for those seeking a convenient yet engaging run.

For planning your visit, street parking is generally available in San Carlos, but always confirm local regulations. Public transport might also be an option depending on the precise starting point of the loop. This route is suitable for year-round enjoyment, though early mornings or late afternoons are often the most comfortable times to run, especially during warmer months.

San Carlos is known for its active running community, with numerous local loops and organized events, making this a popular choice among local runners. The diverse trails in the area cater to various fitness levels, from easy paved paths to more challenging hill climbs, ensuring there's always something new to explore if you're looking to extend your running adventures.

The Tank Trail Bay View – Harold Drake Trail loop offers a diverse jogging experience through Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, winding through cool canyons, shaded oak woodlands, and open chaparral. As you ascend, you'll be treated to expansive views of the San Francisco Bay, the southern peninsula, and the distant Santa Cruz Mountains, making the effort well worth it. The trail surface varies from singletrack to paved sections, with some areas featuring loose sand, gravel, and uneven ground.

Planning your visit requires a few considerations. The preserve does not offer drinking water, so be sure to bring enough for the entire 5.5-mile (8.8 km) difficult loop, which involves 1025 feet (312 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes. Pulgas Ridge is very dog-friendly, featuring a 17.5-acre off-leash area, though dogs must be leashed on all other trails. Arriving earlier in the day can help you secure parking and enjoy cooler temperatures.

This loop is part of a preserve with a unique history, once serving as a tuberculosis sanatorium, adding a distinctive layer to your run. Beyond its historical context, Pulgas Ridge is renowned for its panoramic viewpoints and diverse ecosystems, providing opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and enjoy seasonal wildflowers such as calla lilies and lupines. It's a challenging yet accessible option for those looking for a robust workout with scenic payoffs in San Mateo County.