The best running trails around Towson
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Jogging around Towson, Maryland, offers diverse landscapes and well-maintained trail systems suitable for various preferences. The region features expansive parks like Loch Raven Reservoir with scenic water views and Lake Roland, which includes wetlands, meadows, and mature hardwood forests. Additionally, extensive rail trails such as the Northern Central Railroad Trail provide long, shaded routes along rivers, making Towson a varied destination for running.
Best jogging routes around Towson
- The most popular jogging route is Lake Roland Red Trail, a 5.3 miles (8.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 1 minute to complete. This route offers scenic lake views and passes a historic trestle bridge.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Lake Roland – Lake Roland loop from Lake Roland, a moderate 4.1 miles (6.6 km) path. This loop explores the diverse ecosystems of Lake Roland, including forests and open areas.
- Local runners also love the Running loop from Towson, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail leading through local neighborhoods and urban paths, often completed in about 31 minutes.
- Jogging around Towson is defined by lakeside paths, forest trails, and rail trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging routes with varied terrain.
- The routes in Towson are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 9 reviews. More than 500 runners have used komoot to explore Towson's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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8.50km
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Embark on a moderate jogging experience along the Lake Roland Red Trail, a 5.3-mile (8.5 km) route with a gentle 161 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour. As you jog, the trail winds through varied landscapes, from peaceful woodlands to wetlands and rocky plateaus. You will enjoy scenic waterfront views of the Jones Falls and Lake Roland, particularly from the refurbished Trestle Bridge, which serves as a notable landmark. The path is mostly wooded, offering welcome shade and a vibrant atmosphere, especially during autumn.
Planning your visit to the Lake Roland Red Trail is straightforward, as the route is easily accessible for joggers. Parking is generally available, making it convenient to start your outing. While many sections are considered stroller-friendly, be aware that some parts of the trail can be bumpy. The Red Trail also connects with other routes, such as the Yellow, Orange, and Green trails, allowing you to extend your jog or explore more of Lake Roland Park.
What sets this trail apart are the unique
5.0
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8
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4.55km
00:32
30m
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Jog the easy 2.8-mile Lake Roland Red Trail, gaining 97 feet in 32 minutes, with scenic lake views and a historic trestle bridge.
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5.0
(1)
18
runners
4.99km
00:32
60m
60m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
runners
17.5km
02:03
140m
140m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
runners
5.89km
00:43
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Towson
Tips from the Community
The Red Trail at Lake Roland, features serene views of Lake Roland, and traverses woodlands rich with native flora, and passes historic structures.
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As you cross over Jones Falls you get a great view of the Lake Roland Dam. The dam was completed in 1861 to meet the needs of Baltimore's growing population and today stands as a historical landmark.
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Founded in 1971, the Fire Museum of Maryland has over 40 pieces of firefighting memorabilia. It was originally a private collection before being made into a museum. The museum is open from 10am to 4pm every Saturday, as well as Wednesday to Friday in June, July, and August. Entrance costs $15 for adults.
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There is a significant stretch of road with a wide shoulder to allow parking for the trailhead. From here the Glen Ellen Trail runs all the way to the peninsula by Loch Raven dam.
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The Glen Ellen Trail is a popular trail along the southern shore of the Loch Raven Reservoir. While exploring the forest, you will cross several creeks and be able to soak in the beautiful views of the reservoir.
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This park spans over 500 acres and features woodland, wetlands, rocky plateaus, a 100-acre Lake Roland, an abandoned quarry, viewpoints, and some historic buildings.
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This 100-acre lake was named for the nearby Roland Run Creek and was created by the dam built on Jones Falls. There's a nice trail that runs along the west bank, providing some scenic waterfront views.
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This trail is located in the 500-acre Lake Roland Park and features a dirt trail through woodland, wetlands, rocky plateaus, offering variety to your hike, run, or bike. Due to the environmentally sensitive area, biking is restricted to the Red Trail, Blue Trail, boardwalk, and the paved areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many jogging routes are available around Towson?
Towson offers a good selection of running routes, with over 15 trails available for you to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy loops to more challenging paths.
Are there running routes suitable for beginners in Towson?
Yes, Towson has several routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Running loop from Towson is an easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) path through local neighborhoods, often completed in about 31 minutes. Another easy option is a shorter version of the Lake Roland Red Trail, which is 2.8 miles (4.5 km) long.
What kind of terrain can I expect on running trails in Towson?
Towson's running trails offer diverse terrain. You'll find serene lakeside paths at places like Lake Roland and Loch Raven Reservoir, as well as forest trails with varied surfaces. The Northern Central Railroad Trail (NCR Trail) provides a mostly flat, stone-dust surface, ideal for longer, smoother runs. Some routes, particularly around Loch Raven, can be more technical with roots and hills.
Are there any flat running routes in Towson?
For a relatively flat and extended running experience, the Northern Central Railroad Trail (NCR Trail) is an excellent choice. This 'rails-to-trails' project offers a nearly 20-mile stretch of 10-foot-wide stone-dust surface, perfect for a consistent, shaded run along the Gunpowder Falls River.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Towson?
The running routes in Towson are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 9 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from scenic lake views to shaded forest paths, and the well-maintained trail systems that offer options for all skill levels.
Are there any family-friendly jogging routes in Towson?
Many of Towson's parks offer family-friendly running options. Lake Roland, for example, has trails like the Lake Roland Red Trail which provides scenic views and a historic trestle bridge, suitable for families. The Northern Central Railroad Trail (NCR Trail) is also very popular with families due to its wide, flat, and shaded path.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Towson?
Many parks and trails in the Towson area are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. Lake Roland and the Northern Central Railroad Trail (NCR Trail) are popular spots where you'll often see runners with their canine companions. Always check specific park regulations before you go.
Are there circular running routes available in Towson?
Yes, Towson features several excellent circular running routes. A popular option is the Lake Roland – Lake Roland loop from Lake Roland, a moderate 4.1-mile (6.6 km) path that explores the diverse ecosystems of Lake Roland. The Running loop from Towson also offers a convenient 3.1-mile (5.0 km) circular route through local areas.
Where can I find scenic running routes with water views in Towson?
For scenic runs with water views, both Loch Raven Reservoir and Lake Roland are excellent choices. Loch Raven offers a 1.7-mile section of Loch Raven Drive closed to cars on weekends, providing safe and scenic running with reservoir views. Lake Roland's trails, such as the Lake Roland Red Trail, also provide beautiful lake vistas and opportunities to see wetlands.
Are there any interesting landmarks or natural features to see along the running routes?
Absolutely! Many routes offer points of interest. Along trails near Lake Roland, you can enjoy views of the lake and a historic trestle bridge. The Loch Raven Reservoir area provides numerous viewpoints. For natural features, you might encounter waterfalls like Double Rock Park or Little waterfall near some trails. The Northern Central Railroad Trail runs along the scenic Gunpowder Falls River.
Are there running trails in Towson that are easily accessible by public transport or have parking?
Many popular running areas in Towson offer good accessibility. Lake Roland and the Northern Central Railroad Trail (NCR Trail) typically have designated parking areas. Towson University's 'Tiger Trails' are easily accessible if you are in the university area. For specific public transport options, it's best to check local transit schedules for routes serving the major parks.
What is the best time of year for jogging in Towson?
Towson offers great jogging opportunities year-round, but spring and fall are particularly pleasant due to mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer mornings and evenings are ideal to avoid the heat, while winter runs can be invigorating, especially on well-maintained paths like the NCR Trail. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
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