In the heart of Arizona’s deserts and mountains stands the proud city of Phoenix—one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas of the US. The combination of rough terrain and harsh climate presents Arizonian runners with unique and challenging runs.
Are you a native Phoenician or a tourist wondering, “What are the best places to run near me?” Read on and learn about the top 10 best Phoenix runs.
Before reading further, we feel obliged to warn you: the climate in Phoenix is extremely hot, especially from May through October, regularly reaching over 110F. There is rarely any shade, and not all tracks are lit at night. Keep this in mind when preparing for a run and always have enough water on you.
1. Papago Park
Papago Park is a massive 1,500-acre hilly desert park in Phoenix and Tempe. The park features paved and unpaved tracks with multiple sights and landmarks, including Hole in the Rock, the Desert Botanical Garden, the Phoenix Zoo, and several small lakes.
You can choose from multiple routes, ranging from 0.2 to 3.1-miles. Find more information about each track on Phoenix’s official website.
Want a longer run? You can combine these loops with Arizona State University and Tempe Town Lake runs.
Why is it great?
- Multiple loops to pick from.
- Many great landmarks along the way.
- Magnificent sights.
- Connection to other routes.
2. Arizona State University
Are you a student at Arizona State University thinking: “What are the best running trails near me?” Look no further than your university campus!
Arizona State University is the defining feature of Tempe. It has pleasing paved roads lined with palms, other subtropical plants, and a few lakes not far from it. You can also visit the Arizona State University Research Park or hike up the A Mountain.
Why is it great?
- Great scenery.
- Close to the University.
- Well-lit at night.
- It is typically crowded, even at night.
- A flat course with optional mountain hiking.
3. Tempe Town Lake
As far as Tempe running trails go, you cannot beat Tempe Town Lake. This beautifully scenic lake has excellent paved and gravel trail options for running.
Enjoy running near the water while taking in the panoramic mountain views. The tracks are also relatively well-shaded and lit at night.
This trail conveniently connects Arizona State University with the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt.
Why is it great?
- Well-lit.
- Well-shaded.
- Terrific scenery.
- Good options for extending the run.
4. Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt
The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is a terrific Scottsdale running trail. Unlike most AZ running options, Greenbelt is completely green, as the name suggests. This oasis comprises several parks, lakes, and golf courses with over 11 miles of paved roads for runners.
The Greenbelt is separated into two sections, North and South. The south section also conveniently connects to the Tempe Town Lake trail.
Why is it great?
- Well-lit.
- Green parks.
- Two sections to choose from.
5. Arizona Grand Canal Trail
The Grand Canal is famous for being the oldest existing pioneer canal on the north side of the Salt River. The running trail near it spans over 25 miles, so you have plenty of segments to pick from.
The path is mainly paved with some packed dirt areas. Arizona Grand Canal Trail is the prime spot for bird watching as they gather at this spot.
The route also features a number of landmarks, including Grand Canal, University of Phoenix Stadium, and Tempe Town Lake, along with local parks, residential neighborhoods, and the architectural marvels of the Wrigley mansion and the Biltmore.
Why is it great?
- Long course with multiple stretches to choose from.
- Great for birdwatching.
- Many sights along the way.
6. Murphy’s Bridle Path
Murphy’s Bridle Path is one of the prime jogging paths in Phoenix. It is an enjoyable and well-shaded dirt running trail. This 2.6-mile path was originally intended for horses and includes the historic Central Avenue.
The course features many famous old houses and pretty olive, ash, and citrus trees.
Why is it great?
- Well-shaded.
- Historic area.
- Pleasant trees.
7. Arizona Canal Trail
No list of trail running in Arizona would be complete without including the Arizona Canal Trail. This is the longest track on the list, spanning almost 36 miles, starting from Phoenix and going all the way to Peoria. The route also connects to other trails, including New River, Cave Creek, and Skunk Creek.
It is among the most trafficked tracks, with numerous cyclists and occasional cars on the route. The paved trail also features different underpaths to spice up your routine.
Why is it great?
- Great for long-run training.
- Fairly crowded.
- Access from both Arizona and Scottsdale.
8. Camelback Mountain
If you are looking for mountain running in AZ, you cannot go wrong with Camelback Mountain. It is an iconic destination in Phoenix and the best spot for extreme workouts.
You will be challenged with scorching heat, lack of shade, and brutal elevation gains while trying to avoid crowds. The distance from the foot to the summit is approximately 1 mile with 1,300 feet of elevation, so be prepared.
Why is it great?
- Amazing view from the summit.
- Challenging run for stamina training.
9. Phoenix Mountain Preserve
Phoenix Mountain Preserve is one of the largest urban parks in the country, comprising a cascade of magnificent parks and gentle mountains with a wide variety of hiking trails along the desert and rocky regions of Arizona.
You can also take the 4-mile Freedom Trail around the circumference of the peak or go for the Dreamy Draw trail nearby. Most trails are relatively flat, but there is also an option to be challenged, with the 1.2-mile-long Summit Trail that climbs 1,200 feet to Piestewa Peak.
Why is it great?
- Options for more relaxed or challenging runs.
- Beautiful scenery of both the parks and the metropolitan area.
- Connection to the Arizona Canal Trail via the Dreamy Draw trail.
10. Dreamy Draw Recreation Area
The Dreamy Draw Recreation Area features the most prominent jogging spots in Phoenix as it connects the Arizona Canal Trail with the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. This trail has options for runners of all classes, along with the Dreamy Draw Bikeway.
Why is it great?
- Versatile options.
- Connection to both Arizona Canal and Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
Conclusion
Despite being hot and dry, Phoenix still has a proliferating running scene with many amazing trails. We hope our list of the top 10 running courses in Phoenix, AZ, helps you find an enjoyable route.
Did we forget your favorite route? Let us know in the comments!
