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United States
Missouri
Platte County

Houston Lake

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

  1. 1

    Line Creek Trail – Line Creek Trail loop from Line Creek
  2. 2

    Line Creek Double Waterfalls loop from Houston Lake
  3. 3

    Running loop from Northmoor

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

Line Creek Double Waterfalls loop from Houston Lake

5.95 km

10 m

Moderate

Running loop from Northmoor

8.35 km

60 m

Moderate

Line Creek Trail loop from Lake Waukomis

5.10 km

40 m

Moderate

Running loop from Park University

7.51 km

80 m

Moderate

Line Creek Double Waterfalls loop from Riverside

7.10 km

20 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

15.6 km

120 m

Hard

Running loop from Riverside

8.97 km

50 m

Moderate

Missouri Riverfront Trail loop from Riverside

16.8 km

70 m

Hard

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1.

Line Creek Trail – Line Creek Trail loop from Line Creek

8.78km

00:55

60m

60m

The Line Creek Trail loop offers a delightful escape into nature right within Kansas City, guiding you through mature woods that feel like a natural arboretum. You'll jog alongside Line Creek, enjoying views of charming shallow waterfalls and spotting local wildlife like deer and various birds. The wide, concrete-paved path provides a mix of serene flat sections and some "quite hilly" portions, ensuring a varied and engaging experience.

This moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) jogging route involves 193 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain and can typically be completed in about 54 minutes. Several easily accessible trailheads provide parking and bathroom facilities, making it convenient to start your run. It's a popular multi-use trail, so expect to share the path with walkers and cyclists, especially during peak times.

What truly sets this trail apart is its ability to offer a secluded natural feel despite being just 15 minutes from downtown Kansas City. It's a well-regarded destination for running and walking, known for its safety with most street crossings controlled by lights, and even connects to other routes like the Route 152 Trail for longer adventures.

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2.

Line Creek Double Waterfalls loop from Houston Lake

5.95km

00:37

10m

10m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.

Line Creek Trail loop from Lake Waukomis

5.10km

00:32

40m

40m

The Line Creek Trail loop from Lake Waukomis offers a fantastic natural escape for joggers, providing a serene "back-to-nature experience" on a well-maintained concrete path. This moderate 3.2-mile (5.1 km) loop, with 139 feet (42 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 32 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick, invigorating run. You'll jog through wooded areas alongside Line Creek, encountering varied terrain near NW 68th Street and Waukomis, and even pass by two large waterfalls and several smaller ones, adding visual interest to your workout.

Accessing the Line Creek Trail is straightforward, with multiple trailheads available near Lake Waukomis and Waukomis Drive. The wide, paved surface is ideal for both joggers and cyclists, ensuring a smooth experience. While no specific permits are required, it's a popular multi-use path, so be mindful of others. The trail's excellent condition and accessibility make it a reliable choice for a run any time of day.

What truly sets this trail apart is its ability to offer a significant natural escape within the Kansas City Northland, despite its proximity to suburban areas. You'll find abundant greenery and opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and birds, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The ongoing Line Creek Parkway project also aims to enhance connectivity, further integrating this gem into the local trail network and solidifying its place among the best jogging trails in the region.

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9.

Running loop from Riverside

8.97km

00:56

50m

50m

The Running loop from Riverside offers a pleasant and consistent experience for joggers looking for a reliable workout. This route provides a straightforward path, likely through local parks or along a river, allowing for a steady pace without significant technical challenges. It's a great option for maintaining fitness or enjoying a quick, refreshing run in the area.

Planning your visit to this running loop is generally simple. While specific parking details aren't provided, you'll typically find accessible spots near the trailhead in Riverside. It's always a good idea to check local conditions and weather forecasts, especially if you plan to run during peak times or in varying seasons. Bringing water is recommended, particularly on warmer days.

This route stands out as a practical choice for those seeking easy running loops near Riverside with parking. Its moderate difficulty and manageable length make it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, from beginners to more experienced runners looking for a consistent training ground. It's a dependable option for a regular dose of outdoor activity.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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A shallow double-terraced waterfall along the Line Creek Trail. Most easily accessible by a short walk south from the community center trailhead.

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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.

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