The best running trails in Clark County

Clark County offers a wide selection of jogging routes, with over 100 different options to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging runs.

Yes, Clark County has several easy jogging routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Lewisville Park Trail loop in Washington is an easy 2.5-mile (4 km) loop through forests and along the East Fork of the Lewis River. Another accessible option is the 45th Parallel Trail, which is just over 4 km long.

The scenery varies dramatically depending on whether you're in Clark County, Washington, or Nevada. In Washington, you'll find lush, green environments with dense forests, river valleys, and views of the Cascade Range. Routes like the Salmon Creek Greenway Trail offer views of forests, meadows, and ponds. In Nevada, expect dramatic desert landscapes with unique rock formations and vast open spaces, such as those found near the Clark County Wetlands Park.

Yes, there are several circular jogging routes. The Lacamas Park and Round Lake Loop in Washington is a popular moderate option covering about 7.2 km. In Nevada, the River Mountains Loop Trail is a much longer 35.3-mile (56.8 km) paved loop that encircles the River Mountains, offering expansive desert views.

Many jogging routes offer access to interesting landmarks and natural features. Near the Lacamas Heritage Trail, you can explore Round Lakes Upper Dam and Heritage Trail at Lacamas Lake. The Columbia River Renaissance Trail runs alongside the Columbia Riverfront Renaissance Trail and is close to Fort Vancouver. In Nevada, the Clark County Wetlands Park features the Wetlands Loop Trail and the Nature Preserve, with its cottonwood groves and mesquite bosques.

Absolutely. For those seeking a longer and more challenging experience, the Burnt Bridge Creek Trail in Washington is a difficult 24.9 km route with moderate elevation changes. The Lewis & Clark Regional Trail also offers a substantial 14.5 km run through the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

The best time to go jogging in Clark County depends on the specific region. In Clark County, Washington, the lush environment is particularly pleasant during spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the foliage is vibrant. In Clark County, Nevada, the desert climate makes spring and fall ideal to avoid the extreme heat of summer, though winter can also be pleasant.

Yes, many routes offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Salmon Creek Greenway Trail is known for wildlife observation. The Lewis & Clark Regional Trail winds through the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge, an excellent spot for viewing migratory birds. Whipple Creek Park in Washington, with its dense forests, is also rich in wildlife. In Nevada, the Clark County Wetlands Park is a prime location for birdwatching and observing other desert wildlife.

Many popular jogging routes in Clark County, both in Washington and Nevada, offer designated parking areas. For example, trails within regional parks like Lewisville Park, Moulton Falls Regional Park, and Clark County Wetlands Park typically have parking facilities. It's always advisable to check specific trailheads or park websites for detailed parking information before your visit.

The jogging routes in Clark County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3 reviews. More than 880 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the well-maintained paths, diverse scenery, and accessibility for different fitness levels.

Yes, Clark County offers several paved jogging trails ideal for a smoother running experience. The Salmon Creek Greenway Trail in Washington is a paved path winding along Salmon Creek. In Clark County, Nevada, the Wetlands Loop Trail in Clark County Wetlands Park has approximately 11.5 miles (18.5 km) of paved surface, and the Lone Mountain Trail is a four-mile (6.4 km) mostly flat and paved option.

Absolutely. Many jogging routes in Clark County feature beautiful water views. In Washington, the Lacamas Heritage Trail runs alongside Lacamas Lake, and the East Fork of the Lewis River Trail offers scenic river views. The Vancouver Lake North Trail also provides lakeside running. In Nevada, the Wetlands Loop Trail follows waterways within the Clark County Wetlands Park.