1.
Line Creek Trail – Line Creek Trail loop from Line Creek
8.78km
00:55
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
The best running trails around Houston Lake
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 28, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan your jogging around Houston Lake, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails out there, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the good stuff, not endless searching.
That's where komoot comes in. Our community has jogged, mapped, and reviewed these routes, allowing us to cut through the noise and bring you a curated shortlist of the best. This guide is your shortcut to finding routes that are truly worth your legs, saving you the guesswork and getting you straight to the good trails.
Jogging around Houston Lake means exploring a diverse landscape, often following established trails along natural waterways like Line Creek or winding through local parklands. The terrain is generally well-maintained, with a mix of paved and natural surfaces, and while elevation changes are mostly moderate, some routes offer more challenging ascents. You'll find everything from easy jogging routes to more demanding paths, often featuring scenic waterfall views along Line Creek.
If you only do one route, we'd start with the Line Creek Double Waterfalls loop from Houston Lake. At 3.7 miles (5.9 km), it's a fantastic moderate option for a scenic jog with those beautiful waterfall views. For something a bit longer and more challenging, the Line Creek Trail – Line Creek Trail loop from Line Creek offers 5.5 miles (8.8 km) of varied terrain. With over 300 runners having explored these trails with komoot, you're in good company. Dive in and discover your next favorite route!
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Line Creek Trail – Line Creek Trail loop from Line Creek | 8.78 km | 60 m | Moderate |
| Running loop from Northmoor | 8.30 km | 60 m | Moderate |
| Running loop from Park University | 7.51 km | 80 m | Moderate |
| Line Creek Double Waterfalls – Line Creek Triple Falls loop from Line Creek | 11.1 km | 50 m | Moderate |
| Lake Waukomis loop from Lake Waukomis | 8.70 km | 70 m | Moderate |
| Line Creek Double Waterfalls loop from Saint Pius X High School | 15.7 km | 120 m | Hard |
| Missouri Riverfront Trail loop from Riverside | 16.2 km | 70 m | Hard |
Sign up to see all 7 routes
Sign up for free2.
Running loop from Northmoor
8.30km
00:52
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
3.
Running loop from Park University
7.51km
00:47
80m
80m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
4.
Line Creek Double Waterfalls – Line Creek Triple Falls loop from Line Creek
11.1km
01:09
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
5.
Lake Waukomis loop from Lake Waukomis
8.70km
00:54
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
6.
Line Creek Double Waterfalls loop from Saint Pius X High School
15.7km
01:38
120m
120m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
7.
Missouri Riverfront Trail loop from Riverside
16.2km
01:41
70m
70m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
Sign up for free to see 2 more runs around Houston Lake.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
See every route on the map
Tips from the Community
Andrus
January 14, 2025, Line Creek Trail
This 8 mile multi-use trail is a great place to go for a peaceful ride. It's a great place to look for deer, birds, and other wildlife as you roll along.
0
0
mtm05005
February 19, 2024, Line Creek Trail
The Line Creek Trail is a multiuse trail that passes through beautiful countryside. The trail is 8 miles long and is fully paved. There is frequently deer, squirrels and birds alongside the path, so if you keep an eye out, you may see some wildlife.
0
0
Zachary
April 2, 2023, Line Creek Trail – Homestead Park Trailhead
From this trailhead the Line Creek Trail continues around two miles south toward the Missouri River and the Riverside Waterfall, and around eight miles north toward the community center and miniature railroad.
0
0
Zachary
April 2, 2023, Line Creek Double Waterfalls
A shallow double-terraced waterfall along the Line Creek Trail. Most easily accessible by a short walk south from the community center trailhead.
0
0
Zachary
April 2, 2023, Line Creek Triple Falls
A triple terraced waterfall along the Line Creek Trail. The easiest access is a mile south from the community center trailhead near Frank Vaydik park.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Houston Lake?
There are over 35 running routes available around Houston Lake, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored 38 routes in total.
Are there any easy running paths for beginners in the Houston Lake area?
Yes, Houston Lake offers several easy running paths suitable for beginners. These routes typically feature moderate terrain and shorter distances. For example, the Running loop from Houston Lake is a moderate 3.9-mile (6.3 km) trail that takes about 39 minutes to complete, leading through local park areas.
What are the trail conditions like for running around Houston Lake?
The trails around Houston Lake primarily consist of paved or well-maintained natural surfaces, making them suitable for running. Many routes follow natural waterways like Line Creek, offering a pleasant and consistent running experience.
Are there any challenging running routes for experienced runners near Houston Lake?
Absolutely. For experienced runners seeking a challenge, the Line Creek Trail – Line Creek Trail loop from Riverside is a difficult 15.9-mile (25.7 km) path. This longer route features varied terrain and more significant elevation changes, providing a more extended and demanding running experience.
Can I find circular running routes in Houston Lake?
Yes, many of the running routes around Houston Lake are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular option is the Line Creek Double Waterfalls – Line Creek Triple Falls loop from Line Creek, a 7.0-mile (11.2 km) trail that offers scenic waterfall views.
What kind of scenic viewpoints or attractions can I expect along the running trails?
Many running paths in Houston Lake offer scenic views, particularly along Line Creek with its waterfall features. You might also encounter other points of interest such as Missouri Riverfront Trail, Platte Landing Park, and the Riverfront Heritage Trail. The Waterfall – Old Kate Trail is another notable highlight.
Are there any dog-friendly running trails around Houston Lake?
While specific dog-friendly designations vary, many natural surface trails and park paths in the Houston Lake area are generally suitable for running with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always best to check local park regulations for specific rules regarding pets.
What do other runners say about the trails in Houston Lake?
The running routes in Houston Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Over 300 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the well-maintained trails, scenic riverside paths, and diverse options for all ability levels.
Are there any routes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the Houston Lake area is known for its scenic waterways. The Line Creek Double Waterfalls – Line Creek Triple Falls loop from Line Creek is a prime example, offering beautiful waterfall views directly along the running path.
What is the typical length and duration of running routes in Houston Lake?
Running routes around Houston Lake vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter loops like the Running loop from Houston Lake at 3.9 miles (6.3 km) taking about 39 minutes, up to longer, more challenging routes such as the Line Creek Trail – Line Creek Trail loop from Riverside, which is 15.9 miles (25.7 km) and can take over 2.5 hours.
Are there running paths suitable for strollers or families with young children?
Many of the paved or well-maintained natural surface trails in local park areas around Houston Lake are suitable for strollers. These often have minimal elevation changes, making them ideal for families. Always check the specific route details for terrain and accessibility before heading out.
When is the best time of year to go running in Houston Lake?
The Houston Lake region offers good running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide the most comfortable temperatures. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late evening runs are often preferred, while winter running is possible, though some trails may require caution depending on conditions.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
Explore more
Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.
