The best running trails around Phoenix

The Midlothian Meadows Green Paved Loop offers a delightful escape into nature, characterized by its smooth, paved surface that meanders through peaceful woodlands and open meadows. You'll find sections where trees form a natural arch, providing welcome shade, especially on the east side of the loop. It's a serene setting perfect for a refreshing jog or a quiet walk, allowing you to enjoy the natural backdrop of the Midlothian Meadows Forest Preserve.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking available at the trailhead. This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) route, with only 38 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 32 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a quick outing. It's a great option for all ages and fitness levels, and its accessibility makes it a popular choice for those with strollers or wheelchairs.

What sets this trail apart is its broad accessibility and connection to the larger Tinley Creek Trail System, offering options for longer runs if you wish to extend your adventure. The paved terrain makes it a reliable choice in various weather conditions, though spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures. It's a fantastic spot for a casual outdoor activity, distinguishing itself from more rugged trails in the region.

The Oak Forest Heritage Preserve Brown Paved Loop offers a delightful jogging experience through a varied natural landscape. You'll glide along a smooth, fully paved surface, passing through woodlands, restored prairies, and wetlands. Keep an eye out for the serene waters of Pogie Lake, which provides a lovely scenic viewpoint along the way, and listen for the sounds of birdsong that fill the air.

Planning your visit to this popular jogging trail is simple, as there are no permits or fees required to access the preserve. Ample parking is available at the trailhead, ensuring a hassle-free start to your run. The trail is also dog-friendly, welcoming leashed pets, and its easy terrain makes it a great option for families.

Beyond its natural beauty, the preserve holds significant historical weight, once being the site of the first Native American village discovered in northeastern Illinois. Later, it served as a poor farm and tuberculosis treatment center, with ongoing efforts for ecological restoration and memorialization of these sacred spaces. This 2.2-mile (3.5 km) loop, with just 28 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 24 minutes to complete and is rated easy, making it accessible for nearly everyone.

The Major Taylor Trail offers a fascinating journey through Chicago's southwest side, blending urban landscapes with surprising pockets of nature. As you jog along its paved path, you'll transition from the shaded canopy of Dan Ryan Woods to quiet residential blocks, eventually reaching the natural expanse of Whistler Woods Forest Preserve, where deer sightings are possible. A highlight is the cantilevered trailway over the Little Calumet River, providing unique industrial and natural vistas.

Planning your visit is relatively easy, as the trail is well-connected to public transportation and features clear signage, even where it transitions onto city streets. While the route is mostly flat, its 10.9-mile (17.6 km) length and 25 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain make it a substantial outing, typically taking about 1 hour and 48 minutes. This makes it a difficult-rated jog, best for those prepared for a longer effort.

This trail is more than just a path; it's a tribute to Marshall "Major" Taylor, an African American cycling legend, and one of Chicago's earliest urban rail-to-trail projects. It connects two significant forest preserves and features public art, including a 400-foot-long mural honoring Taylor. Its historical significance and diverse scenery make it a standout option for joggers in the region.

This moderate 4.1-mile (6.6 km) jogging loop offers a delightful blend of urban green spaces and the charming atmosphere of Downtown Flossmoor, making it a great option for a quick, scenic workout. You'll enjoy smooth paved surfaces as you pass by local shops, public art, and the unique historic residential architecture that defines the area. With only 54 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, it's a relatively flat route that takes about 40 minutes to complete, suitable for a steady run or a brisk walk.

Accessing this route is straightforward, with convenient starting points in Homewood that connect directly to Flossmoor. While no specific parking details are provided, the area is generally accessible. It's a pleasant route to tackle any time of year, though the mild temperatures of spring and fall might offer the most comfortable conditions for your run.

The Downtown Flossmoor loop is notable for seamlessly connecting two vibrant communities, allowing you to experience both their natural and cultural characteristics. It's an excellent way to explore the walkable streets, dedicated parks like Leavitt Park and Flossmoor Park, and the local establishments that give this region its unique appeal.