The best running trails around Ames

There are over 30 dedicated running routes around Ames, offering a variety of experiences for joggers of all levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate trails to explore.

Yes, Ames offers several easy jogging routes. For instance, the Wildlife viewing loop from North Grand Mall is an easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) trail, perfect for a relaxed run and wildlife observation.

The running trails in Ames feature a diverse range of terrain. You'll find well-maintained paths through scenic parks, along tranquil lake views, and through wooded areas. Many routes are relatively flat, making them accessible, but some offer gentle gradients and a mix of concrete, crushed gravel, and natural surfaces.

Absolutely. Parks like Ada Hayden Heritage Park and Brookside Park offer trails that are great for families. Ada Hayden has a main trail loop of approximately 3.2 miles with picturesque lake views, while Brookside provides scenic trails and open green spaces suitable for a family run or stroll.

For scenic views, consider trails around Ada Hayden Heritage Park with its two lakes. While a short drive from Ames, Ledges State Park offers dramatic landscapes with sandstone cliffs and deep ravines, providing adventurous runs with spectacular views from its Canyon Road and Overlook Trail.

Yes, many of the routes in Ames are designed as loops. For example, the Running loop from Iowa State University is a moderate 8.1-mile (13.1 km) path that winds through the campus and surrounding areas, offering varied scenery in a circular format.

The running routes in Ames are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the extensive trail networks, scenic parks, and tranquil lake views, as well as the variety of options for both easy and moderate ability levels.

Many parks and trails in Ames are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. Ada Hayden Heritage Park and Brookside Park are popular choices for runners with dogs, offering open spaces and well-maintained paths for both you and your canine companion to enjoy.

Yes, Ames' public transport system, CyRide, serves many areas close to popular running trails. The Iowa State University campus itself is a beautiful running route and is well-served by CyRide, connecting to various pathways. You can also find routes near the Iowa State Center, which is generally accessible.

Parking is generally available at most major parks and trailheads in Ames. For instance, you'll find parking at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, Brookside Park, and near the Iowa State University campus. Many routes, like the Running loop from Iowa State Center, also have convenient parking options nearby.

While running in Ames, you might encounter the beautiful campus of Iowa State University, the serene lakes at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, or the charming creek in Brookside Park. The broader Ames trail system also connects to various green spaces and local points of interest.

While many routes are moderate, for a more challenging experience, you might consider the trails at Ledges State Park, a short drive from Ames. Its dramatic ravines and sandstone cliffs offer a more rugged and adventurous run compared to the city's generally flatter paths.

Ames offers great running opportunities throughout the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially on the Iowa State University campus with its fall foliage. Summer mornings and evenings are also popular, while winter running is possible, though trail conditions may vary.