The best running trails around Lansing
175
runners
23
runs
If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Lansing, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and parks, 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 explored, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best.
Jogging in Lansing is all about embracing the city's extensive, interconnected trail systems. You'll find yourself running along scenic riverfronts, through lush park loops, and across a mix of paved pathways and wooded trails. It's a landscape that offers everything from easy park runs to more challenging, long-distance routes, making it a fantastic spot for runners of all stripes.
If you only do one route, make it the Lansing River Trail. This 11.5 miles (18.5 km) route is our most popular for a reason, tracing the Grand and Red Cedar rivers through diverse scenery. For something a bit shorter and easier, the Lansing River Trail: Hawk Island Loop is a local favorite, offering a pleasant 2.4 miles (3.9 km) run through Hawk Island County Park. With more than 100 runners already using komoot to explore Lansing, you're in good company.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
23
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18.5km
01:54
40m
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The Lansing River Trail is a fantastic option for joggers seeking a varied and engaging route that combines natural scenery with urban exploration. You'll follow the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers, winding through tranquil woodlands and wetlands where you might spot herons or even bald eagles. The terrain is a mix of paved paths, concrete, macadam, and unique wooden boardwalks, offering a smooth yet diverse surface for your run. Expect to pass through vibrant urban districts, catching views of the downtown skyline, and connect to popular spots like Adado Riverfront Park and the Michigan State University campus.
For those planning a visit, the Lansing River Trail is easily accessible with multiple access points and ample parking options along its extensive length, making it convenient to jump on the trail wherever suits you best. This particular segment is a difficult 11.5-mile (18.5 km) journey with 128 feet (39 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hours and 54 minutes to complete. It's a great choice for a longer, more challenging run, so be sure to factor in the distance and duration when planning your start time.
Recognized with the Pure Michigan Trail Town award, the Lansing River Trail stands out as a premier jogging destination in the region. Beyond the scenic river views, you'll encounter notable features like the Brenke Fish Ladder and the charming Old Town area. The trail's ability to link major attractions while offering a continuous, well-maintained path makes it a unique and highly valued asset for runners and outdoor enthusiasts in Lansing.
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3.92km
00:24
10m
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The Lansing River Trail: Hawk Island Loop offers a delightful blend of urban park and natural escape, perfect for a quick jog. You'll experience the smooth, paved paths circling Hawk Island Lake, providing open views and a sense of spaciousness. The route then transitions into the natural, unpaved trails of Scott Woods Park, where you'll find yourself immersed in shaded woodlands, offering a refreshing contrast and opportunities for wildlife observation.
This easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) jogging loop, with only 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 24 minutes, making it ideal for a quick workout or a leisurely stroll. Parking is conveniently available at Hawk Island County Park, which serves as the perfect starting point. The paved sections are even cleared of snow, ensuring year-round usability for those looking to enjoy the trail in any season.
Beyond the loop itself, Hawk Island County Park is a 100-acre hub of activity, offering amenities like pedal boat rentals, a swimming beach, and a splash pad in warmer months, plus a snow-tubing hill in winter. The Hawk Island Loop is also an integral part of the extensive Lansing River Trail system, providing easy access to over 20 miles of additional trails for those who wish to extend their adventure through Lansing's diverse landscapes.
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2
runners
15.7km
01:37
30m
30m
The South Lansing Pathway offers a unique jogging experience, blending natural beauty with urban convenience across its 9.8-mile (15.7 km) length. You'll find yourself on a mostly paved surface, winding through serene wetlands like those in Sycamore Park, past wooded sections, and alongside city neighborhoods. Despite its "difficult" rating, the route features a gentle 88 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, making it a test of endurance rather than steep climbs, typically taking about 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete.
Planning your run on this South Lansing running route is straightforward; there are no permits or fees, and leashed dogs are welcome. For safety at busy road crossings, the pathway is equipped with Hawk Signals at major intersections such as Pennsylvania Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. This trail is often less traveled than other parts of the Lansing River Trail, offering a more solitary experience for your workout.
As a crucial segment of the extensive Lansing River Trail network, the South Lansing Pathway provides excellent connectivity, allowing you to extend your run into other parts of the city and various parks. Following a utility corridor across the south side of Lansing, it's a great spot to observe local wildlife like ducks, squirrels, and butterflies, adding a touch of nature to your urban jog.
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The Hunter Park Loop offers a delightful, easy jogging experience right in the heart of Lansing. This short 0.6-mile (0.9 km) route, with its minimal 9 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a quick 5-minute workout or a leisurely stroll. You'll find yourself amidst pleasant green spaces, enjoying a consistently flat surface that's ideal for all ages and fitness levels, making it a top choice for beginner jogging routes.
Planning your visit to Hunter Park is simple, as it's a public park designed for convenience. You'll typically find easy parking access for joggers, along with amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. The trail is both family-friendly and dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your loved ones, just remember to keep dogs leashed. Spring and fall offer the best conditions, though summer mornings or evenings are also great for avoiding the heat.
This urban oasis is notable for its accessibility and serene atmosphere, providing a refreshing break from city life. While jogging, you might spot the Hunter Park Outdoor Pool, a prominent feature within the park. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a peaceful, low-impact exercise spot or a place to unwind after a busy day, offering a quiet alternative to more strenuous local jogging paths.
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If you're looking for a varied and accessible jogging route in Lansing, the Hawk Island Lake – Lansing River Trail loop from Bear Lake Natural Area is a great choice. This moderate 6.8-mile (11.0 km) trail, with a gentle 99 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete. You'll experience a blend of open lake views around Hawk Island Lake, shaded woodlands in Scott Woods Park, and scenic stretches along the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers, often on smooth paved surfaces with occasional natural sections.
Starting your journey from the Bear Lake Natural Area, you'll find this loop is largely family-friendly and suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. The paved sections, particularly around Hawk Island Lake, are cleared of snow, making it a reliable option for year-round enjoyment. Parking is generally available at the Bear Lake Natural Area, and the route's accessibility makes it easy to plan a visit at your convenience.
This trail is part of the extensive Lansing River Trail system, one of the largest in the country, connecting numerous parks and natural areas. The route seamlessly integrates urban settings with serene natural landscapes, allowing you to feel far from the city while remaining close to amenities. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like ducks, squirrels, and even herons as you traverse the diverse environments.
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Popular around Lansing
Tips from the Community
Running between Waverly Road and Old Town, the Lansing River Trail offers 20 miles of paved trail access to many parks, natural areas, and the downtown area.
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Hawk Island County Park is 100 acres of beautiful park land built over the remains of the former Sablain Gravel Pit. VIsitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, picnicking, and in winter sledding and tubing.
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Hawk Island County Park in Lansing offers paved and natural trails perfect for walkers and hikers of all levels. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the paths cover varied terrain including riverside views and wooded areas. Bring water and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, whether you’re out for a short stroll or a longer hike.
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Hawk Island County Park Pond is the center of Hawk Island County Park. There is a small beach, trails around it, and a boat put in. This is a nice spot to take in the views over the water before continuing on your ride around the pond or beyond on the Lansing River Trail.
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A lake with a lot of recreational value.
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The South Lansing Pathway connects to the Lansing River Trail but is much less traveled. Whether it's because it's a little further outside the city or because it doesn't pass through as many different types of nature environments, you get a lot of solitude when you decide to run on this portion of paved trail.
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The primary outer loop at Hunter Park is paved and right around half a mile. The park also has a lot of open space, a playground, some tennis courts, a pool, and a restroom. There are a couple parking areas for the path, but a lot of people also run to the park and just add it on to their road run.
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The plaza at Rotary Park is a popular spot on the Lansing River Trail to see people, start or stop a run, and take a break on the path. There is a parking area here just behind the City Market that is on the edge of the park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of running routes can I find in Lansing?
Lansing offers a diverse range of running routes, from paved riverfront paths to wooded trails and park loops. You'll find options suitable for various preferences, including easy park runs and more challenging long-distance routes. The city's extensive trail systems, particularly along the Grand and Red Cedar rivers, connect natural settings with urban areas.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly jogging routes in Lansing?
Yes, Lansing has several easy running routes perfect for beginners or a relaxed jog. For example, the Lansing River Trail: Hawk Island Loop is an easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) trail through Hawk Island County Park. Another accessible option is the Hunter Park Loop, a short 0.6-mile (0.9 km) path.
Which running trails in Lansing are suitable for families or strollers?
Many of Lansing's paved trails are excellent for families and strollers. The Lansing River Trail, with its extensive paved sections, is a prime example, offering smooth surfaces and connecting various parks like Hawk Island County Park and Adado Riverfront Park, which feature accessible playgrounds. Hawk Island County Park itself has paved accessible walkways.
Can I bring my dog on the jogging trails in Lansing?
Yes, many of Lansing's outdoor spaces and trails are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. The Lansing River Trail is generally welcoming to leashed dogs. Parks like Hawk Island County Park and Burchfield Park also typically allow dogs on their trails. Always check specific park regulations for any restrictions.
What are some scenic points or attractions I can see along the running routes?
Lansing's running routes offer numerous scenic points and attractions. Along the Lansing River Trail, you can enjoy views of the Grand River and Red Cedar River, pass through the beautiful Michigan State University campus, and explore areas like Old Town Lansing. Other highlights include Hawk Island Lake and the Burchfield Park Pond and Picnic Area.
Are there any circular running routes in Lansing?
Yes, Lansing offers several circular running routes. A popular option is the Lansing River Trail: Hawk Island Loop, which provides a pleasant circuit within Hawk Island County Park. Another great loop is the Hunter Park Loop, ideal for shorter, contained runs.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Lansing?
Lansing offers great jogging opportunities throughout the year, but spring, summer, and fall are particularly pleasant. Spring brings blooming nature, while summer allows for early morning or evening runs to beat the heat. Fall is popular for its vibrant foliage along the river trails and in parks. Winter jogging is also possible on cleared paths, though conditions may vary.
Are there running routes that connect to other areas or trails?
Absolutely. Lansing is known for its interconnected trail system. The Lansing River Trail is a prime example, stretching over 20 miles and linking Lansing and East Lansing, including the MSU campus. The Sycamore Creek Trail/Valhalla Trail also joins the south end of the Lansing River Trail, extending your running options.
Where can I find parking for Lansing's running trails?
Parking is generally available at various access points along the major trail systems and within parks. For the Lansing River Trail, you can find parking at parks like Adado Riverfront Park, Hawk Island County Park, and Crego Park. Many other parks like Burchfield Park and Fenner Nature Center also offer dedicated parking facilities for trail users.
Are there any running routes that offer opportunities for wildlife viewing?
Yes, Lansing's natural areas provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing while jogging. Nature centers like Fenner Nature Center, Woldumar Nature Center, and Harris Nature Center offer serene trails through diverse ecosystems such as woodlands, wetlands, and prairies, where you might spot various birds and other wildlife. The Lansing River Trail also offers glimpses of riverine wildlife.
How many jogging routes are available in the Lansing area?
The Lansing area boasts a comprehensive network of running trails. On komoot, you can find over 20 curated jogging routes, ranging from easy park loops to more challenging long-distance paths, ensuring there's something for every runner.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Lansing?
Runners in Lansing frequently praise the region's extensive and well-maintained trail systems, especially the scenic Lansing River Trail. The variety of terrain, from paved riverfront paths to natural park trails, and the ability to connect different areas like the MSU campus and downtown, are often highlighted as key benefits by the komoot community.
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