The best running trails around Compton
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Jogging routes around Compton offer access to a network of green spaces and multi-use pathways within an urban setting. The region features parks with walking trails, such as Compton Creek Natural Park, and dedicated paved paths like the Compton Creek Bike Path. These areas provide varied terrain, from open parkland to creek-side routes, suitable for different running preferences. The landscape is characterized by accessible urban green infrastructure designed for outdoor activity.
Best jogging routes around Compton
- The most popular jogging route is Running loop from Alondra Park, a 3.1 miles (4.9 km) trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete. This easy route offers a pleasant run through a local park environment.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Running loop from California State University - Dominguez Hills, a moderate 3.3 miles (5.4 km) path. This route provides a good workout with some elevation gain around the university campus.
- Local runners also love the West San Gabriel River Trail β El Dorado East Regional Park loop from Long Beach City College Liberal Arts Campus, a 7.8 miles (12.5 km) trail leading through a river corridor and parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 17 minutes.
- Jogging around Compton is defined by urban green spaces, paved multi-use pathways, and creek-side trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy park loops to longer moderate routes.
- The routes in Compton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 7 reviews. More than 70 runners have used komoot to explore Compton's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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19
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8.74km
00:57
170m
170m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.97km
00:31
10m
10m
The Running loop from Alondra Park offers a delightful escape into nature, even within an urban setting. You'll jog along well-maintained paths that meander through extensive meadow lawns and woodlands, providing a tranquil environment. The highlight is an urban lake featuring a native plant island, which serves as a haven for local wildlife and migratory birds, adding a scenic touch to your run.
This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) route has a minimal elevation gain of just 29 feet (9 metres), making it incredibly flat and accessible for all. It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, perfect for a quick, invigorating workout. The park provides ample parking, and its proximity to El Camino College makes it a convenient spot for a run.
Alondra Park is a sprawling 203.1-acre green space in Lawndale, recognized as the largest park closest to the ocean and the beach cities of Manhattan, Hermosa, and Redondo Beach. Beyond its running loops, the park boasts a golf course, various sports courts, a swimming pool, and picnic sites, making it a true community hub.
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6
runners
5.36km
00:35
40m
40m
The Running loop from California State University - Dominguez Hills offers a refreshing escape into a green campus environment, perfect for a quick and easy jog. You'll navigate well-maintained, largely flat paths that wind through landscaped areas, providing a pleasant urban green space experience. With only 141 feet (43 metres) of elevation gain over 3.3 miles (5.4 km), this route is ideal for those seeking a consistent, low-impact run, perhaps exploring the Central Campus Loop or East Loop sections.
Planning your visit to these jogging routes near CSU Dominguez Hills is straightforward. The campus location near Carson, California, makes it easily reachable, and parking is typically available on university grounds, though checking for specific regulations or event-related closures is a good idea. This easy running loop is best enjoyed during daylight hours, and you should bring water, especially if you're running during warmer parts of the day.
What makes this running loop CSUDH campus special is its accessibility and the pleasant, green setting it provides within an urban area. It's a popular choice among the local running community, evidenced by its positive ratings, offering a reliable and enjoyable option for a moderate 34-minute workout. Whether you're a beginner or just looking for a convenient, easy running loop, this campus trail delivers a consistent and enjoyable experience.
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This popular jogging route offers a delightful blend of urban and natural landscapes, perfect for a sustained run near Long Beach City College. You'll trace the paved San Gabriel River Trail, enjoying views of the Los Alamitos Channel, before immersing yourself in the lush greenery and tranquil lakes, like Horseshoe Lake, within El Dorado East Regional Park. Keep an eye out for various bird species, ducks, geese, and turtles around the water bodies, adding a touch of wildlife to your 7.8-mile (12.6 km) journey.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is predominantly flat and paved, making it accessible for most runners. The route is considered moderate due to its length, taking approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete, with a minimal 44 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain. Access points to the San Gabriel River Trail are convenient from the Long Beach City College area, and the trail features mile markers for easy navigation.
The San Gabriel River Trail is a significant multi-use path, connecting various parks and communities, and seamlessly links with the El Dorado Park bike path. This connectivity allows for a diverse jogging experience, combining the linear river trail with the varied amenities of the regional park, which also boasts a nature center and picnic facilities. It's an excellent option for those seeking a longer, uninterrupted run in the Long Beach area.
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5.95km
00:37
30m
30m
The Running loop from Wardlow offers a pleasant urban escape, guiding you through Wardlow Park on well-maintained, mostly paved paths. You'll enjoy lush greenery and open spaces, with a distinct treeline providing a natural feel, even amidst the city. It's a serene environment, perfect for a quick, refreshing jog, despite the occasional glimpse of sports facilities like basketball courts.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with convenient parking available at Wardlow Park. Consider an early morning start to enjoy the park at its quietest, though it's a popular spot throughout the day. The park is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed companion along for this accessible route.
This moderate 3.7-mile (5.9 km) jogging loop features a minimal 90 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, making it an easy route suitable for all fitness levels, typically taking around 36 minutes. It's a community-friendly green space, offering a peaceful retreat and a great way to stay active without venturing far from Long Beach.
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Popular around Compton
Tips from the Community
Limited cars use the roads so it is nice to get away from traffic
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One of the largest urban parks in the valley, with lakes, meadows, sports fields, picnic areas, etc.
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The San Gabriel River is one of the best routes in the entire valley to bike safely without traffic on a dedicated trail from the hills through the sprawling downtown areas to the ocean. The trail runs on the river levee, mostly on the east bank. While the river is mostly a concrete canal, there are a few sections where it passes by parks like here the El Dorado, or private gardens and plant nurseries, adding a few touches of green in this huge metropolitan area that otherwise has few long, dedicated bike routes.
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Very large public park along the river with a network of car-free bike trails and quiet park roads connecting several lakes, shady groves, and picnic facilities with restrooms and water.
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An area reclaimed with Southern California native plants that makes a nice respite from the surrounding suburbia.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Compton?
Compton offers a selection of 9 dedicated running routes. These include a variety of options, from easy park loops to more moderate and challenging trails, catering to different fitness levels.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Compton?
The running routes in Compton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 7 reviews. Runners often praise the accessibility of urban green spaces and the variety of paved multi-use pathways and creek-side trails available for outdoor activity.
Are there any easy running routes in Compton?
Yes, there is at least one easy running route in Compton. A great option is the Running loop from Alondra Park, which is 3.1 miles (4.9 km) long and offers a pleasant run through a local park environment.
Are there any more challenging running routes in Compton?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, Compton offers one difficult running route. Additionally, there are 7 moderate routes, such as the Running loop from California State University - Dominguez Hills, which provides a good workout with some elevation gain around the university campus.
What is the best time of year for jogging in Compton?
Compton's moderate climate generally allows for year-round outdoor activities. This means you can enjoy jogging on its trails and in its parks consistently throughout the year, with comfortable conditions for most seasons.
Are there any family-friendly jogging routes in Compton?
Many of Compton's parks offer green spaces and walking trails suitable for families. Locations like Earvin "Magic" Johnson Park, with its dedicated walking and running trails, and Compton Creek Natural Park, provide safe and accessible environments for family outings.
Are there dog-friendly jogging trails in Compton?
Yes, several parks and multi-use paths in Compton are suitable for jogging with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. The Compton Creek Bike Path and the open spaces within parks like Gonzales Park or Wilson Park are popular choices for runners with canine companions.
Where can I find jogging routes with parking in Compton?
Most major parks in Compton, such as Earvin "Magic" Johnson Park, Compton Creek Natural Park, and Gonzales Park, offer dedicated parking facilities, making it convenient to access their jogging trails. Routes starting from these parks are generally well-served by parking.
Are there any trails along a creek or river in Compton?
Absolutely. The Compton Creek Bike Path is a paved, multi-use pathway that stretches for approximately 3 miles along Compton Creek, offering a dedicated space for joggers. Additionally, the West San Gabriel River Trail β El Dorado East Regional Park loop also leads through a river corridor and parkland.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the running routes?
While jogging in and around Compton, you can encounter several points of interest. The Compton Creek Natural Park offers a refreshing green oasis. You might also come across various bridges and cycleways that are part of the wider Los Angeles River network, such as the Rio Hondo Bike Bridge or sections of the Los Angeles River Greenway.
Are there any plans for new or extended trails in Compton?
Yes, there are ongoing efforts to enhance and extend the trail network. Future plans, including Phase III of the Compton Creek Trail project, aim to offer an additional 1.5 miles of connected urban trail along Compton Creek. You can find more information on these developments through local county resources, such as lacounty.gov.
Are there any paved multi-use paths suitable for running in Compton?
Yes, the Compton Creek Bike Path is a prime example of a paved, multi-use pathway ideal for running. It stretches along Compton Creek, providing a dedicated and generally flat surface for joggers. Many local parks also feature paved loops and pathways.
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