The Most Scenic Trail Running Destinations
Trail-runners know the many advantages of this form of exercise. According to Shape.com, the cardio benefits are unbeatable, legs are strengthened and toned, bone health is improved, and on top of all of that, by running a trail you are treated to fresh air, nature, and often some spectacular scenery. Another great benefit of trail running is the fact that you don’t need expensive training equipment. Simply grab your best trail running shoes and go.
But serious trail runners share their tips for some of the best trail running destinations in the US, and in Europe, in order to give you the ultimate trail running experience that may be well worth traveling for. Even those runners that are new to the trail running experience may find that a trip to one of these beautiful destinations is the best way to kick-start a new running program, or make their new year’s resolutions come true in the best possible way.
Shenandoah National Park
Pack a couple of pairs of your best running shoes and head for a stay at Shenandoah National Park in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. This is within easy driving distance of Washington DC, and the trip includes the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway where you may see a family of bears on the roadside. You can stay at one of several resorts or campgrounds and enjoy exploring many beautiful and challenging trails with quiet forest hollows, cascading waterfalls, and spectacular views around every bend in the trail. This national park is over 200,000 preserved acres full of wildlife and birds, and offers many trails for beginners, intermediate trail runners, and more challenging trails for experienced trail runners.
Shenandoah National Park is truly spectacular in the fall, so book your stay a year in advance because the area is hugely popular for leaf peepers.
Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe contains many miles of gorgeous trails for all skill levels, including the eight mile Rubicon Trail with swimming areas along the way. Pack your bikini along with your best trail running shoes.
The famous Tahoe Rim Trail is 165 miles of trails through such beautiful, scenic areas such as Page Meadows wildflower wilderness, and the starkly scenic granite desolation area. This beautiful trail overlaps in places with the well-known historic Pacific Crest Trail, and is a destination to put on every trail-running bucket list.
Trail Around Middlebury, Vermont
Quaint Middlebury Vermont includes a trail system which weaves around the whole area with historic landmarks, a climb up an old ski-lift trail, and beautiful scenic parks. After you’ve explored these lovely views, you can easily access Vermont’s famous Long Trail, which includes 273 miles of mountainous views, rivers, brooks, and wildlife. It’s the oldest long distance trail in the country and extends the entire length of the state, making this one of the best places to pull on your best trail running shoes and expect to be treated to some of the most beautiful scenery in the US.
Kauai, Hawaii’s Kalalau Trail
This trail is unmatched for beauty, and includes an eleven mile run beginning at Ha’ena State Park and running through five lushly tropical valleys, isolated waterfalls, old ruins, white-sand beaches, and towering sea-side cliffs along the Northwest side of the Hawaiian island of Kauai. This trail is an unforgettable experience that no serious trail runner should miss, and if you are new to trail running, the Kalalau Trail will seal the deal with your love of trail running forever.
Chamonix, France
This is considered the European epicenter for trail running and begins at the quaint, scenic mountain village of Chamonix. The scenic mountain trail borders Italy and Switzerland, so you can run in three countries in one day, including France, Italy and Switzerland. Guides are available to ensure you have a safe and scenic run.
Mata Solena, Spain’s Cova Negra Trail
This renowned trail runs through Spain’s rugged countryside with beautiful views, serene lakes, and isolated caves. This trail offers a challenging run for those more experienced trail runners, and some smaller runs for beginners, with some of Spain’s most beautiful vistas along the way.
Family Trail Running in Jay Peak Vermont
During the first week of September, pack your best trail running shoes, your best jogging stroller and your family, and head for Jay Peak Vermont’s annual Family Trail Running Festival. Family-friendly activities such as a water park are included at Jay Peak resort and races are scheduled throughout the weekend event. Your family can enjoy exploring the scenic mountain trails during Vermont’s famous fall foliage season for an unforgettable family adventure that is sure to become an annual event for your family.
Resources— Runner'sWorld, outsideonline, kidstrailrunning
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