The best running trails around Bellflower
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If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Bellflower, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many parks and trails, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, run, and reviewed these routes, so this guide is your curated shortlist of the very best, saving you all the guesswork.
Bellflower offers a welcoming environment for joggers, characterized by its mostly flat topography and well-maintained urban green spaces. You'll find everything from easy park loops to more challenging runs, all within a pleasant Mediterranean climate that makes most days suitable for getting outside. The city's commitment to accessible trails means you're never far from a good run.
For a consistent surface suitable for regular running, we'd start with the Running loop from Cerritos, a solid 6.3 miles (10.1 km) thatโs a favorite among locals. If you're looking for a slightly longer, scenic experience, the El Dorado East Regional Park loop from Lakewood, at 6.4 miles (10.3 km), takes you through beautiful parkland. With more than 100 runners having explored Bellflower with komoot, you can trust these routes are worth your legs.
Last updated: May 30, 2026
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The San Gabriel River Trail, especially as it connects with El Dorado East Regional Park, offers a fantastic escape for joggers in Lakewood. This 5.7-mile (9.1 km) loop is mostly paved and famously "bone flat," with only 33 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it a moderate and accessible option for nearly everyone. You'll enjoy a mix of open grassy fields, tree-lined paths, and the tranquil lakes within El Dorado East Regional Park, providing a refreshing change of scenery from the surrounding urban environment.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with El Dorado East Regional Park serving as a convenient starting point. The park provides essential amenities like restrooms, drinking water, and picnic areas, along with ample parking. While the trail is generally safe, jogging during daylight hours and with a companion is always a good idea. This route is enjoyable throughout the year, but consider an early morning or late afternoon start to beat the heat during summer.
This trail stands out for its excellent accessibility and connectivity, linking to other significant park areas and trails like the Coyote Creek Trail. Despite its urban setting, the park's lakes and riparian vegetation along the river offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, adding a touch of nature to your run. It's a popular multi-use path, so you'll share it with cyclists and other pedestrians, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.
6
runners
10.1km
01:02
10m
10m
The Running loop from Cerritos offers a fantastic opportunity for a longer, consistent jog through the city's well-kept green spaces. You'll primarily be on paved paths, enjoying the urban park environment, which makes for a smooth and predictable surface underfoot. Imagine a refreshing run through areas reminiscent of Cerritos Park East, where the focus is on accessible, low-impact exercise rather than rugged terrain. This route is ideal for those seeking a steady pace and a comfortable experience.
Planning your visit to this running loop is straightforward, as it's designed for local accessibility. You'll find convenient parking options at nearby parks, making it easy to start your run. Since it's an urban route, public transport options are likely available to get you close to the starting point. It's a great choice for a morning or evening run, especially if you appreciate well-maintained paths and easy access.
What sets this route apart is its blend of length and minimal elevation, making it a moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) jogging loop with just 26 feet (8 metres) of gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 2 minutes. This makes it a perfect option for building endurance without the strain of significant climbs. It's a popular running route within Cerritos, California, offering a reliable and enjoyable experience for joggers of all levels.
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6
runners
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.
5.0
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8
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10.3km
01:04
10m
10m
The El Dorado East Regional Park loop from Lakewood offers a refreshing jogging experience across 6.4 miles (10.3 km) with a mere 39 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, making it a moderate route you can complete in about 1 hour and 3 minutes. You'll find a pleasant mix of paved and dirt paths winding through large trees, open lawns, and past several lakes like Main Lake and North Lake. Keep an eye out for ducks, geese, and various bird species that frequent the park's waterways, adding to the natural charm of this mostly flat course.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the park offers dispersed parking options, and pedestrians or bicyclists can enter without paying a vehicle fee. It's a safe and peaceful spot, especially in the early morning when cool breezes make for ideal running conditions. For those who want to go further, the park also connects directly to the San Gabriel River Bike Trail, allowing for longer runs beyond the park's boundaries.
This well-maintained green space provides a tranquil escape from city life, offering more than just jogging trails. Beyond the natural beauty and wildlife, El Dorado East Regional Park boasts amenities like an archery range, paddle boats, and even a nature center. Its accessibility and diverse offerings make it a notable destination for outdoor activities in the Long Beach area.
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5.66km
00:35
10m
0m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Bellflower
Tips from the Community
Limited cars use the roads so it is nice to get away from traffic
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You can get a glimpse of North Lake from this bridge, or you can walk across the grass to the edge of the water for a view from behind the plants on the shore. This is the quietest and least visited reservoir on the property.
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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 Bellflower?
Bellflower offers a diverse selection of over 30 running routes, catering to various skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.
Are there easy jogging routes suitable for beginners in Bellflower?
Yes, Bellflower's generally flat topography makes it ideal for beginners. There are 4 easy running routes available. Many parks, like Ruth R. Caruthers Park, offer dedicated fitness courses and well-maintained paths perfect for those starting out.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Bellflower's jogging trails?
The jogging trails in Bellflower are primarily characterized by a flat topography and well-maintained urban green spaces. You'll find accessible trails within the city's park system, often featuring paved paths and dedicated fitness courses, integrated into the urban environment.
Are there any running routes that are particularly scenic or pass by interesting landmarks?
While Bellflower is an urbanized area, its parks offer pleasant green spaces. For routes with scenic elements, consider paths along the San Gabriel River Trail or the Los Angeles River Greenway. You might also encounter features like the Rio Hondo Bike Bridge on some routes.
Can I find loop running routes in Bellflower?
Yes, many of Bellflower's running paths are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the West San Gabriel River Trail loop from Bixby Knolls is a popular choice, providing a scenic and accessible experience.
What are some of the best parks in Bellflower for a run?
Bellflower boasts several excellent parks for running. Ruth R. Caruthers Park features a two-mile fitness course and a 2.5-mile bike trail suitable for jogging. T. Mayne Thompson Park offers serene, lush trails, while John S. Simms Park includes walking trails and outdoor fitness areas. Riverview Park also provides ample walking trails for a good run.
Are there any longer, more challenging running routes in the Bellflower area?
For those seeking a greater challenge, Bellflower offers 9 difficult running routes. One such option is the Running loop from Lakewood Boulevard, which spans over 12 miles (19 km) and includes more elevation gain than other local routes.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Bellflower?
Bellflower experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, arid summers and cool, wet winters. This makes many days throughout the year suitable for outdoor exercise. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for running.
Are there any running trails that are particularly suitable for families?
Many of Bellflower's park trails are family-friendly due to their flat, well-maintained surfaces. Parks like Ruth R. Caruthers Park and John S. Simms Park offer playgrounds and picnic areas alongside their running paths, making them great options for families to enjoy together.
Are there any dedicated bike paths in Bellflower that are also good for jogging?
Absolutely. The Bellflower Bike Trail, running for over two miles along the former Pacific Electric transit system right-of-way, is a paved and accessible surface perfect for jogging. The 91 Freeway Bike Path also offers a well-maintained route connecting Bellflower with neighboring cities, popular with both cyclists and runners.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Bellflower?
The running routes in Bellflower are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 7 reviews. Runners often praise the accessibility of the trails, the well-maintained park environments, and the generally flat terrain which makes for a consistent and enjoyable running experience.
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