Oklahoma, or OKC as the locals call it, is a city with a great history and a lot to offer to those who like to run. Oklahoma city runs are pleasant and pleasing to the eye, with scenic views that amateur and professional runners appreciate.
Many options exist, from city blocks to parks and paths near the water. The city’s terrain is mostly flat; however, the lack of height can be perfectly compensated for by adding distance.
Even if you don’t have a car, you won’t have any problems getting to the chosen running location, as the new tram connects all parts of the city. If you want to go further, you can use the Spokies bike-sharing program, the EMBARK buses, or call a taxi.
We’ve gathered the best Oklahoma city running trails to make your choice easier and save time. Choose the best fit and be ready for amazing workouts!
1. Lake Hefner and Lake Overholser Trails
Let’s start with the most iconic road (or even roads if combined into one). This popular running trail along the water can be used for running, biking, and walking. The course is located 10 miles from downtown, so you should go there by car.
The Lake Hefner Trail (or Bert Cooper Trail) is a paved 9.6-mile loop around the lake that gives you a great view.
The 2.5-mile lake Overholser running trail goes along the east side of the lake and connects with the Oklahoma River Trail to the south. The route goes from NW 39th Street and Overholser Drive along the east side of Lake Overholser to Overholser Park at NW 10th St.
The Hefner-Overholser Trail is a paved 6-mile loop that takes you past protected wildlife and loud city streets. 2 miles into the route is an on-street bike trail. It runs from Britton Road at Lake Hefner Drive to NW 39th Street at Overholser Drive.
Feel free to bring your dog! But it must be on a leash.
Why is it great?
- You can combine the trails as you like. If you do them all, you’ll hit 18 miles!
- The beautiful views of nature and the lakes are incredible! Especially when the sun goes down.
- You can have a great time with your family or friends after the workout – there are many restaurants, a yacht club, and fishing on the lakes. This area is one of the top recreation spots in all of Oklahoma.
2. Bricktown
This district is the hottest in the city, as it is the center of all nightlife in Oklahoma. However, during the day, there is also something to do here – run 2 miles of trails along the canal in Bricktown Oklahoma City Riverwalk Park, observing the area’s architecture.
Why is it great?
- Do you want to increase the route? No problem! Add a run around the Oklahoma City Dodgers Stadium and the brick-laden Oklahoma Ave, or connect to the Oklahoma River Trail.
- This comfortable trail is excellent for beginners.
- A terrific option if you are new in town, you can look around and choose where to go to have fun in the evening.
- There are many places to have a snack and rest.
3. Oklahoma River Trail/West River Trail
If you prefer long runs or are preparing to participate in a marathon or half-marathon, this route is ideal. Combine trails as you need, depending on your planned load – there are 17.5 miles of diverse coastal trails between Eagle Lake and Lake Overholser.
Why is it great?
- The main trail from Eagle Lake to Pace’s Point is 11.7 miles, and then it’s 5.8 miles on the West River Trail to Crystal Lake and along the North Canadian River to Lake Overholser. The perfect way to prepare for a half-marathon.
- If you prefer shorter distances, run 5 miles to South Portland Ave from Regatta Park or try the 9.5-mile loop between the Portland and Robinson bridges.
- If you want to combine the workout with some entertainment, run the First Nations Museum & Eagle Lake Loop. You will have 4.3-miles on the Eagle Lake Trail, which includes a 1.3-mile loop around Eagle Lake. After, you can visit the First Nations Museum, a major visitor destination in Oklahoma City. Or you can make this route a part of a bigger one.
- If you aren’t sure where to start, you can visit the parking areas at the Oklahoma Boathouse, Wheeler Park, Wiley Post Park, the Mat Hoffman Action Sports Complex, the Exchange Ave Bridge, Lincoln Ave Bridge, and SW 15 and Portland. Leave your car in some of these places and start your workout there.
- Also, if you want to increase your experience, you can add Lake Overholser Trail, South Grand Trail, Will Rogers Trail, or Katy Trail. These trails all connect with the Oklahoma River Trail.
4. Nichols Hills
This is another good option for those who like running and watching something beautiful. Nichols Hills is a lovely residential area in suburban Oklahoma. It is famous for its fashionable grand houses (almost palaces!) with large courtyards along quiet residential streets.
Why is it great?
- You can run on quiet streets (note that there are no sidewalks, but the traffic is so light that it is safe to run on the road).
- You can also use the local Grand Boulevard Park, where you can run one mile along the main avenue.
- Running while looking at beautiful houses and parks is an incredible pleasure for the eyes.
5. Heritage Hills/Mesta Park
This is an excellent variant if you want to combine a workout with sightseeing, especially if you are new in town or have come on business. These neighborhoods, north of Midtown and near the State Capitol, will impress you. Here you can observe the most scenic Oklahoma houses, especially the Overholser Mansion and the Hales Mansion on North Hudson Avenue.
Starting at the commercial center of NW 23rd Street, you can run about 2.5 miles. Feel free to make your route longer to expand your running experience.
Why is it great?
- You can rest or drink something after the workout – there are a lot of cool cafes and restaurants here.
- It is easy to find parking.
- The scenic overview will make your workout more enjoyable.
6. Eagle Trail
If you live in Edmond (a town just north of Oklahoma City) and google “places to run near me.” then you should try Eagle Trail loops around the campus of Oklahoma Christian University. The trail is 2.5 miles long and part paved and part crushed rock.
Why is it great?
- This nice car-free route has lots of places to park.
- There are many security phones along the route and good lighting, making it a good trail for evening and night workouts.
- You can add a cool-down lap after the run in the Margeret Annis Boys Centennial Arboretum. It’s also a good place for walking.
7. Myriad Botanical Gardens
If you don’t want to leave downtown but need some space with nature, try the Myriad Botanical Gardens. You will find plenty of trails in this 17-acre area. Run, walk, enjoy beautiful plants and flowers, and then walk home on foot.
Why is it great?
- The loop around the park is about 1 mile, but you can add Bricktown Trail, which we have mentioned above.
- You don’t need to pay for entrance. But if you plan to visit the Tropical Conservancy, the price will be $28 for adults.
- Since you are downtown, you can drink a cup of tea or coffee or have lunch in the cafe nearby.
- You can come with your friends and family and have an amazing time together.
8. Earlywine Park
It is a perfect option if you are looking for a trail without cyclists. The bike-free trails of Earlywine Park are fantastic and well-lit, so you can use them in the evening.
Why is it so great?
- You can choose the 2.6k Earlywine Park Loop around the park. It is paved, sometimes smooth.
- If you want to take a dog, it is not a problem, but it must be on a leash.
- Come with your family or friends – the park is beautiful. You can walk or have an amazing picnic after the workout. If you like to swim – come to the pool for cross-training.
- There are many restaurants here. So you will have a place to have a snack or drink coffee.
9. Bluff Creek Park
Many runners like this park for the opportunity to run on a different surface. If you like running on paved trails, choose the paved 1.9k-loop; if you prefer more loads – choose the unpaved 6.1k-loop.
Why is it great?
- All trails are well-maintained, so you will have a comfortable workout.
- If you want to add some distance, include the Lake Hefner trails, just north of the Bluff Creek Park lake.
- You can take your dog, but it must be on a leash.
- If you run on the unpaved track, you will observe amazing wildlife.
- If you like hiking, you can set up a camp nearby the trail. There are many hikers in this place.
10. Draper Lake Old Road Loop
We will finish our list of top running locations in Oklahoma City with this moderate 13k-loop near Oklahoma. This road has two different path systems: Draper Lake Old Road and the single-track Lake Draper Trail. Most of this route borders Lake Stanley Draper.
Why is it great?
- You will enjoy amazing views of the lake.
- During the summer season, you can observe wildlife and enjoy wildflowers.
- A great option to prepare for a trail-running race or a half-marathon.
We hope our list will help you find the most suitable route for your needs and save you time. If we missed one of your favorite trails, let us know in the comments!
