The best running trails in Mendoza

Mendoza offers a diverse selection of over 30 running routes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. These range from urban park loops to challenging mountain trails in the Andes foothills.

You'll find a wide variety of terrain. Urban parks like Parque General San Martín offer flat, paved, or well-maintained paths. For more challenging runs, areas like Cerro de la Gloria and the trails around Reserva Natural Divisadero Largo feature steep inclines, sand, and rocky sections, characteristic of the Andes foothills. Some routes also wind through vineyards or along multi-use paths like the Ciclovia Godoy Cruz.

Yes, for beginners or those seeking a relaxed run, the Lago del Parque loop from Mendoza in Parque General San Martín is an excellent choice. It's a flat, accessible 3.7-mile (5.95 km) path around the lake. Parque Benegas also offers a continuous, paved trail ideal for distance running through local barrios.

Absolutely! Many routes offer stunning vistas. For panoramic views of Mendoza, consider a run up Cerro de la Gloria within Parque General San Martín. Trails in the Andes foothills, such as the Mirador Antonio Arcos – Cerro Cruz de Don Orione loop, provide expansive mountain scenery. The region's vineyards also offer unique and picturesque running experiences.

Yes, you can find routes that lead to natural attractions. For instance, the Los Berros Waterfall loop from Blanco Encalada is a challenging route that takes you to a beautiful waterfall. Other highlights in the broader Mendoza region include the El Salto or La Virgen Waterfall and the Mirror Lagoon.

Many urban parks and multi-use paths are great for families. Parque General San Martín, with its wide paths and amenities, is very family-friendly. Parque Benegas also features playgrounds along its trail, making it suitable for runs with children. For more adventurous families, some moderate trails might be appropriate, but always check the difficulty and length.

While specific regulations can vary by park or protected area, generally, dogs are welcome on leash in many public parks and trails in Mendoza. Parque General San Martín and Parque Benegas are popular spots for runners with dogs. Always ensure your dog is under control and clean up after them.

Mendoza boasts a favorable dry climate with year-round sunshine, making it suitable for running almost any time. Spring (September-November) and Autumn (March-May) offer particularly pleasant temperatures. Summers can be hot, so early morning or late evening runs are recommended, while winters are mild and sunny, perfect for daytime activities.

Yes, many of Mendoza's running routes are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Lago del Parque loop from Mendoza and the Running loop from Chacras de Coria, as well as more challenging mountain loops like the Cerro Aspero loop from Reserva Natural Divisadero Largo.

For urban running, Parque General San Martín is the premier spot, offering a 2.5 km path around its lake and tree-lined promenades. Parque Benegas in Godoy Cruz provides a continuous trail over paved train tracks, winding through local neighborhoods. The Ciclovia Godoy Cruz is another excellent multi-use path for longer, off-road paved running within the city.

The running routes in Mendoza are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 5 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from the serene urban parks to the challenging and scenic mountain trails, and the generally excellent weather conditions for outdoor activities.

Absolutely. The foothills of the Andes, particularly around areas like Cerro de la Gloria and Reserva Natural Divisadero Largo, offer demanding trail running experiences. Routes such as the Cerro Santo Tomás de Aquino – Cerro Cruz de Don Orione loop feature significant elevation gains and rugged terrain, perfect for experienced trail runners seeking a workout.

While not explicitly listed as dedicated running routes in the guide data, the broader Mendoza region, especially areas like Junín and the Uco Valley, is famous for its vineyards. Exploring these areas by foot can offer unique running experiences through picturesque wine country, sometimes even featuring night races through the vines.