Running is a fantastic way to get outside for some exercise and explore the surrounding area. However, it can also be a wonderful way to go out and see more of the world as well.
Many people travel for enjoyment. However, those who run have a tendency to sideline that activity while vacationing. This is a mistake as planning your trip with running in mind can keep you on track with your fitness and allow you to see some amazing spots you might have otherwise missed. Get ready to pack your bags, grab your running bracelet and lace up your running shoes because here are the five best travel destinations for runners.
1. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga, Tennessee is home to the Tennessee Riverwalk, a 16-mile linear park that parallels the Tennessee River, beginning at Ross’s Landing and finishing in the city center. Naturally, this makes for a gorgeous run that allows you to see a good chunk of the city.
Additionally, the high plateaus and rolling hills that line the surrounding area also make for wonderfully scenic running routes.
If all that weren’t enough, Chattanooga, Tennessee is also home to scores of marathons, 5Ks and a myriad of other annual running events and races.
2. Boulder, Colorado
Consistently ranking among (often near the top) the best outdoors cities in America, Boulder, Colorado is one of the top travel destinations for runners. The reason for this is that the area is on the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains (and therefore offers a seemingly endless number of trails), more than 300 days of sunshine and a panoply of other outdoor activities to indulge in while visiting the city.
While the area has hundreds of miles of off-road and paved running routes, some of the most popular include the Boulder Creek Path (5.5 miles), Walker Ranch Loop (eight miles), Mesa Trail (seven miles) and the Boulder Valley Ranch Trail (10 miles).
However, if you choose to travel to Boulder to run, be careful to watch out for the effects of running at higher altitudes. Moreover, if you have a medical condition, be sure to purchase an Apple Watch medical alert plate (if you wear an Apple Watch) or to get a personalized medical bracelet before hitting the trails.
3. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Well-known as one of the most walkable cities in the world, Vancouver, British Columbia is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to put feet on the pavement.
Surrounded by mountains, running routes that line the Pacific Ocean, and forested trails, Vancouver is not only a stunning vacation destination, but it is a must-run location.
A quick search for the best running trails in Vancouver will reveal a long list of easy, intermediate, and expert-level trails, thereby catering to runners of all levels.
4. Kauai, Hawaii
Hawaii is one of the top travel destinations on the planet, thanks to its natural beauty and warm weather. While there are tons of spectacular places to go running in Hawaii, Kauai is likely to be one of the best as it includes the Scenic Coastal Kauai Path and the Kalalau Trail.
For the uninitiated, the Kalalau Trail is an 11-mile trail that begins in Hāʻena State Park and ends at Kalalau Beach. Over the course of those 11 miles, running will pass through five valleys, soak in white sand beaches, gain access to ancient Hawaiian ruins, discover remote waterfalls and see tons of other breathtaking sights.
No matter how you cut it, this is one of the single most beautiful travel spots on earth and should be on every runner’s bucket list.
5. Boston, Massachusetts
Home to one of the most famous marathons in the world, Boston, Massachusetts is well-known as having one of the most robust running scenes in the nation. Additionally, the views can be incredible as the city is littered with historic landmarks.
In Boston, runners can visit the Old North Church, Paul Revere’s house, the Freedom Trail, Beacon Hill, the USS Constitution, the Granary Burial Ground and scores of other deeply important historical sites for the United States. Moreover, places like the Museum of Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Fenway Park, Martha’s Vineyard and loads of other places ensure that there is no shortage of places to run or things to do in Boston, Massachusetts.
Getting a Running Start to Your Vacation
While most people tend to think of vacations as a time to kick up their feet, traveling the country (or world) with running in mind is a fantastic way to get out and see more of a specific location while maintaining your exercise routine.
For those who love to run and love to explore, the five cities listed above should be toward the top of your travel checklist.
* this is a sponsored post
