The best running trails in Sarasota County

The Lido Key via John Ringling Bridge loop offers a dynamic jogging experience, transitioning from urban waterfronts to pristine beaches. You'll enjoy sweeping views of Sarasota Bay and the downtown skyline from the John Ringling Bridge, then pass the striking "Unconditional Surrender" statue, with options to run on the firm sands of Lido Key Beach. This moderate 6.7-mile (10.8 km) route, with a gentle 32 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes, providing a refreshing blend of city and nature.

This popular route is easily accessible, with many starting near Bayfront Park. Given its status as one of Sarasota's top jogging trails, consider heading out early in the morning or later in the afternoon to enjoy a less crowded experience. The paved paths are suitable for year-round use, but always account for Sarasota's warm weather by hydrating well and choosing cooler times of day for your run.

What makes this loop truly stand out is its iconic John Ringling Bridge, offering one of the few significant inclines in the Sarasota area, adding a rewarding challenge to an otherwise mostly flat course. Its proximity to St. Armands Circle also allows for easy extensions, letting you combine your workout with a visit to shops or restaurants, making it a versatile choice for runners.

The Nathan Benderson Park loop offers a wonderfully flat and scenic experience around a large artificial lake, perfect for a relaxed jog or walk. You'll find wide paths, both paved and crushed-shell, that hug the shoreline, providing continuous views of the water. Keep an eye out for the impressive Benderson Family Finish Tower and the possibility of watching rowing teams practice on the 2,000-meter sprint course, adding a unique dynamic to your outing. The western side of the lake feels more natural and quiet, while the eastern side is a bit more active.

This moderate 3.6-mile (5.8 km) jogging loop, with only 30 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, is easily completed in about 35 minutes, making it highly accessible for beginners or those seeking a quick workout. Parking is plentiful and conveniently located near I-75, making access simple. The park is also dog-friendly, so your leashed pet can join you, and amenities like restrooms and picnic areas are readily available.

Nathan Benderson Park is renowned as a world-class rowing venue, hosting national and international competitions, which provides a fascinating backdrop to your run. Beyond jogging, the park is a multi-use recreational hub offering various land and water activities. It's a vibrant community space that hosts over 100 events annually, from elite sports to local festivals, ensuring there's always something happening.

Jog the moderate 5.7-mile Siesta Key Beach & Crescent Beach route, featuring pristine white quartz sand and Gulf of Mexico views.

Jog the moderate 3.6-mile Hammock Loop Trail in Rothenbach Park, featuring diverse Florida ecosystems and minimal elevation gain.

Jog the scenic Casey Key Road, a 10.7-mile route with coastal views and exclusive homes, rated difficult for its length and shared road.

The Legacy Trail offers a delightful, flat jogging experience through a diverse Florida landscape. You'll glide along a smooth, paved surface, passing through shaded woodlands, open pastures, and tranquil marsh prairies, with glimpses of streams and rivers. This particular segment is a pleasant journey, perfect for a relaxed outing where you can enjoy the scenery and perhaps spot some local wildlife like gopher tortoises or various birds.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is open from 6:00 a.m. until sunset daily, with ample parking available at trailheads. To make the most of your run, consider going during the cooler months, from late fall to spring, to avoid the peak summer heat. Always carry water, especially if you're jogging during midday, as shaded sections can still feel warm.

This trail is a fantastic example of a successful rail-to-trail conversion, following the path of the historic Seaboard Air Line Railroad. Its extensive amenities, including restrooms and water fountains, make it very user-friendly. It's also dog-friendly, provided your furry friend stays on a leash, and connects to other routes like the Venetian Waterway Park, offering options for longer adventures.

Jog the difficult 11.2 miles (18.0 km) Longboat Key Bike Trail, gaining 30 feet (9 metres) with views of the Gulf and Sarasota Bay.

Jog the 3.3-mile Legacy Trail and Yellow Trail Loop in Oscar Scherer State Park, a moderate route with minimal elevation gain.

The Venetian Waterway Trail offers a unique jogging experience along a flat, paved concrete path, providing continuous scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. You'll pass through a mix of urban corridors and open green spaces, with the western side of the trail offering particularly close water views and leading directly to Caspersen Beach. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like herons, egrets, and even dolphins as you cover the 10.2 miles (16.3 km) of this route.

Planning your run on the Venetian Waterway Trail is straightforward, with multiple parking areas available at various trailheads. Given the minimal 73 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, the main challenge for this difficult-rated route is its length, taking about 1 hour and 41 minutes to complete. Be mindful of the limited shade in some sections, especially during warmer Florida days, and consider an early morning or late afternoon start.

This multi-use trail is not just for jogging; it's also popular with walkers and cyclists, so you'll share the wide pathway. A significant advantage is its seamless connection to the Legacy Trail at the northern end, creating an extensive network of nearly 23 miles of continuous paved trails. This connectivity allows for much longer adventures if you're looking to extend your workout beyond the initial 10.2 miles.