The best running trails around Fresno

The Old Town Trail in Clovis offers a delightful jogging experience, winding through varied scenery on a mostly paved surface. You'll glide past residential areas, shopping districts, and the charming, historic Old Town Clovis with its iconic train depot. This multi-use path is completely off-road, providing a smooth and engaging journey for runners.

This moderate 9.1 miles (14.7 km) route, with only 24 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to jog. It's an excellent choice for beginners or those seeking a relaxed run. The trail is dog-friendly, requiring leashes, and is best enjoyed in the comfortable temperatures of spring and fall.

Built along an old rail bed, the trail connects Clovis and Fresno, offering a unique blend of urban and historic landscapes. Informational signs, 'train station' gazebos, and statues add character, while newly planted trees provide both beauty and shade. It's a fantastic way to explore the area's heritage while getting a good workout.

If you're seeking a pleasant and varied jogging experience in Fresno, the Lewis S. Eaton and Tom MacMichael Senior Trail Loop delivers. This route offers a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, guiding you from bluffs overlooking the San Joaquin River to meandering paths along its banks. You'll pass through open fields and under the shade of tall oaks, with glimpses of the Sierra Nevada mountains on clear days, all within the picturesque setting of Woodward Park.

This moderate 3.4-mile (5.4 km) loop, with a gentle 100 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain, is a great option for a quick outing, typically taking around 37 minutes to jog. Its location within Woodward Park means easy access and ample parking. Consider visiting in the cooler seasons or early mornings to make the most of the experience, especially if you're looking for a family-friendly jogging route.

The trail's integration into Woodward Park provides access to additional amenities, including a Japanese Garden and various ponds. The Lewis S. Eaton Trail is also part of a larger planned system, offering connectivity and potential for longer explorations along the San Joaquin River Parkway. Portions of the Tom MacMichael Senior Trail are even ADA accessible, ensuring a welcoming experience for many.

The Lewis S. Eaton Trail offers a delightful jogging experience, winding along bluffs overlooking the San Joaquin River bottom with distant views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. You'll move through varied terrain, from paved asphalt to wide dirt shoulders, and pass through the cool, forested sections of Woodward Park, home to California Redwoods and Lodgepole Pines. Keep an eye out for wildlife like foxes, red-tail hawks, and various bird species, especially near the San Joaquin River conservancy land.

This moderate 6.0-mile (9.6 km) route, with a gentle 118 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour to complete. It's an accessible option for joggers of all skill levels, though you'll encounter some small hills and gentle elevation changes to keep things interesting. The trail is well-appointed with amenities like drinking fountains and restrooms, particularly within Woodward Park, making it convenient for a refreshing workout.

As a key part of the planned 22-mile San Joaquin River Parkway, the Lewis S. Eaton Trail provides an uninterrupted jogging experience thanks to bridges that safely cross over roads. This means no busy intersections or traffic lights to break your stride. Its popularity means you'll likely share the path with walkers and cyclists, especially on weekends, but the scenic views and varied landscape make it a worthwhile destination for a consistent and enjoyable run.

The Fresno County Courthouse Park loop offers a pleasant urban jogging experience, winding through a picturesque green space that feels like a peaceful escape. You'll enjoy lush greenery and shaded pathways, with the impressive Beaux-Arts architecture of the Fresno County Courthouse and the historic Old Fresno Water Tower providing a unique backdrop to your run. It's a flat, paved route, making it an easy and accessible option for anyone looking to get some steps in.

This 1.7-mile (2.8 km) loop has only 4 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, so it's an easy route that most people can complete in about 17 minutes. Its central downtown Fresno location makes it incredibly convenient for a quick outdoor activity. Basic facilities like restrooms and water fountains are typically available nearby, adding to the ease of your visit.

Beyond the natural beauty, the route is rich in history, featuring several significant landmarks and memorials, including the Fresno County War Memorial and statues honoring figures like Dr. Martin Luther King. The park's connection to the Fulton District and Eaton Plaza via the Mariposa pedestrian mall also allows for extended walks and further exploration of downtown Fresno's historical and cultural offerings.