There is nothing so freeing as running along a beautiful trail, letting off steam. For a feeling that liberating, you should have some of the best views that running trails can provide in order to maximize that experience. Never fear. Runners from all across the United states of America have compiled a list of the five top running trails today,
1. The McKenzie River Trail in Eugene, Oregon
This is a twenty-seven mile long running trail that follows the course of the river along the backbone of Oregon’s beautiful Cascade mountains. Home to a monster of a 50 K, this trail is ever popular for its stunning beauty, length, and the variance of the terrain attract runners from all across the country and the world at large.
They may even attract you as you run wild through the mountain range along the course of one of the most beautiful and cleanest rivers that the US has to offer. By far a favorite among runners everywhere, this trail is sure to impress.
2. Berryman Trail in Potosi, Missouri
This trail in Missouri is in the heart of the Mark Twain National Forest, which is very near the hometown of the renowned American author. Not only should you visit the childhood home of one of the greatest authors in American history, but you can also run along this glorious trail.
Coming in at twenty-four miles, this running trail snakes through the forests of Missouri and through the miles of forest in a nice, peaceful manner. A popular southeastern trail, you are sure to encounter some fellow runners as they also enjoy the views and maybe make some lifelong running friends while you are at it.
3. The Long Trail in Winhall, Vermont
This trail is not for the faint of heart. It is also not one of those trails that you can simply visit then leave in one day and appreciate its full glory. This trail is two hundred and seventy-three miles of runners’ paradise. Some embark on a personal challenge to take on the Long Trail in a week or less, but even some experienced runners cannot achieve this feat and it should not be attempted by a novice by any means.
The southern part of the trail contains some mild ten-mile strips if you wish to run only a portion of the beast, which is perfectly good enough to see why this running trail gets all the hype that it does.
4. The Colorado Trail from Denver to Durango, Colorado
If you thought the long trail was long, then you may faint at the notion of this even more mountainous four hundred and eighty-three mile long running trail. With elevations that can take you as high as over thirteen hundred feet, there are parts of the trail that are perfect even for novice runners where the trail starts in Denver.
Run past ski resorts and between some of the most picturesque lakes that this postcard of a state has to offer. These trails offer so much in the way of natural beauty and challenges to even the most skilled runner’s body.
5. Rock Creek Trail in Hillsboro, Oregon
This is the ideal trail for beginners without sacrificing any of the beauty and integrity that comes with some of the other trails on this list. 1.6 miles long with an optional 1.5-mile extension, this trail has the feeling of seclusion without being completely off the grid.
Perfect even for bikers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts that just want to dip their toes in the world of outdoor running, this trail is ideal for the starting runner.
Things to Consider Before You Embark:
Now that you have some trails in mind, remember
- Keep animals at bay, both wild and domestic. Domestic dogs can cause just as much injury as wild animals.
- Pack for the weather and for the conditions around you so that you don’t get sunburned, bitten by bugs, or otherwise have any other issues while hiking.
- Tell your friends when and where you’re going.
Have fun and enjoy the runner’s high from exploring the best trails in America.
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