Houston is the 4th most populous city in the US and the biggest in Texas. With its favoritism for cars and its hot climate, finding a good spot for running in Houston can be challenging.
However, thanks to a recent investment of $100 million into parks and similar projects, the running scene is seeing a much-awaited renaissance. Houston has become home to many excellent trails, including urban runs in majestic neighborhoods, serene park routes, and untamed trails of local bayous.
Read on and learn more about Houston, TX’s 10 best places to run.
1. Memorial Park
Memorial Park is probably one of Houston’s most prominent locations. Choosing the running trail at Memorial Park in Houston is a no-brainer: it is one of the largest urban parks in the US and home to a proliferating running community.
The park has multiple routes to pick from: the 2.9-mile Seymour Lieberman Exercise Trail, the ¼ mile running track near the Tennis Center, a 2-mile loop of the Arboretum, or one of the color-coded wild trails east of the Arboretum.
Why is it great?
- You can leave your belongings, change, and shower at Memorial Park Running Trails Center.
- Multiple lanes.
- Cross-training workout stations.
- Well-lit and crowded even at night.
- Plenty of shade.
- Access to restrooms and water fountains.
2. River Oaks Neighborhood
After a millionth run at the Memorial Park, you might start wondering: “Are there other running tracks near me?” The answer would be a resounding yes, because the River Oaks neighborhood, just to the south of Memorial Park, is one of Houston’s most beautiful urban settings.
While it is not explicitly geared toward runners, it is still a fairly popular place for runners. We recommend the streets west of Shepard/Kirby, north of San Felipe St., and east of Willowick Rd.
Why is it great?
- Can be used as standalone routes or an add-on to your Memorial Park run.
- Nice luxuriant area with plenty of lights.
- Many roads to choose from.
3. Buffalo Bayou Park
Buffalo Bayou Park is deservedly considered one of the best running parks in Houston, Texas. This nationally-acclaimed park features a great variety of trees and shrubbery mixed with the magnificent Houston skyline. You will find a great number of bridges, including the “bat bridge” near Waugh Dr., where thousands of bats gather at sunset.
It also leads to many other running trails in Houston. You can follow the Buffalo Bayou eastward and find yourself in Johnny Goyen Park, where the White Oak Bayou Trail starts. Or you can follow Memorial Dr. west and get to Memorial Park. Or how about going north to get to Glenwood Cemetery and the 6th Ward Historic District? Whether you decide to stay in Buffalo Bayou Park or run to another destination, this spot is truly one of the best for running in Houston.
Why is it great?
- Great accessibility to other routes.
- Well-lit at night.
- Many bridges to pass through to customize your run better.
- Access to water fountains.
- Separate lanes for cyclists and pedestrians.
4. White Oak Bayou Trail
White Oak Bayou Trail is the longest standalone trail on this list, spanning over 15 miles. The course will take you through several parks, including Woodland, Stude, TC Jester, and Watonga Parkway. You will also run through the historic Heights and Woodland Heights communities.
Most of the run is panoramic and green, although there are some industrial stretches on the trail.
Why is it great?
- The longest standalone route.
- Paved road.
- Pointers to the nearest landmarks.
- Spans multiple parks and historic neighborhoods.
5. Montrose Neighborhood
The Montrose neighborhood is home to a colorful mix of restaurants, cafés, bars, and houses of both classic and modern styles. There are many nicely shaded streets with great views of the city skyline.
Moreover, you can easily pass to River Oaks or Buffalo Bayou Park from this area.
Why is it great?
- Great mix of classic and modern architecture.
- Fairly crowded area with many patrons of local establishments.
- Well-lit at night.
6. 6th Ward Historic District and Glenwood Cemetery
The 6th Ward Historic District has many architectural masterpieces and landmarks to glare at while running. Right next to it is the scenic Glenwood Cemetery, which has many great shaded routes for running. No need to worry—running is permitted on cemetery grounds, so feel free to visit this landmark unless you are superstitious.
You can use this location for standalone runs or add it to your Buffalo Bayou Park run.
Why is it great?
- Great architectural landmarks.
- Nice shaded roads.
- Beautiful statues and monuments.
- Flat green trail.
7. Heights Hike and Bike Trail
The Houston Heights Hike and Bike Trail attracts runners, hikers, and cyclists from all over the city. Along this nice two-way paved trail, you are very likely to encounter wildlife, including birds, rabbits, various butterflies, and more.
Why is it great?
- Green forest and meadows.
- Wildlife sightings.
- Access for bicycles.
8. Rice University Loop
You might be a Rice University student and wonder: “What are the best places to run near me?” There is no need to look too far; the answer is right under your nose. The Rice University campus has many walking paths shaded by majestic oak trees. There is also a 2.9-mile dirt track around the campus for cross-country running and many enjoyable running trails nearby, including Herman Park and Brays Bayou Trail.
Why is it great?
- Good mix of nature and civilization.
- Well-lit at night.
- Crowded even in the evening.
- Convenient for local students.
9. Herman Park
Herman Park is another great park for running. It features a charming woody area and a plethora of places of interest, including the Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theater, Museum of Natural Science, Garden Center, and Japanese Garden. The most popular loop is the oak-shaded 2-mile Marvin Taylor Trail, which circles the golf course. Go west from Herman Park, and you will eventually hit Rice University.
Why is it great?
- Many POIs.
- Shaded trails.
10. Brays Bayou Greenway Trail
Among the best running trails in Houston is the Brays Bayou Greenway Trail. The trail has both industrial and natural stretches, going through Hermann Park and Museum District. You will cross Brays Bayou multiple times on this trail. The trail has all the necessary amenities, including restrooms and water fountains, as well as many interesting landmarks.
Why is it great?
- Access to restrooms and water fountains.
- Great natural scenery.
- Multiple bridges to cross.
Conclusion
Despite its industrial nature and harsh hot climate, Houston boasts a vivid and proliferating running scene with many enchanting routes. We hope you find this compilation of Houston runs enjoyable. Please tell us about your favorite jogging track in the comments. See you on the trail!
