The best running trails around Asbury Park

The Wesley Lake Bridge – Wesley Lake loop offers a unique jogging experience, tracing the picturesque shores of Wesley Lake as it links the lively Asbury Park with the tranquil Ocean Grove. You'll enjoy continuous water views and well-maintained paved paths, with the iconic Wesley Lake Bridge serving as a visual highlight and a seamless connection between the two distinct towns. This route provides a refreshing change of pace from the busier boardwalks, allowing you to soak in the serene coastal atmosphere.

This 11.4-mile (18.3 km) jogging route, rated difficult, involves a minimal 133 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain, making it more about endurance than steep climbs. Expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 53 minutes, making it a substantial workout for experienced runners. Parking is readily available in Asbury Park, and the trail's paved surface means it's accessible year-round, though some sections may have vehicular traffic.

What truly sets this loop apart is its strategic location, acting as a natural border and connector between two vibrant New Jersey coastal communities. The ability to easily extend your run onto either the Asbury Park or Ocean Grove boardwalks provides excellent flexibility for longer workouts or a change of scenery. This connectivity makes the Wesley Lake loop a standout option for exploring the diverse character of the region on foot.

The Bradley Beach Boardwalk loop from Asbury Park offers a delightful coastal jogging experience, blending serene water views with vibrant boardwalk scenes. You'll enjoy continuous ocean vistas, sand dunes, and grasses, especially along the Bradley Beach section where bikes are prohibited, ensuring an uninterrupted run. The route also takes you past the tranquil Wesley Lake, connecting Asbury Park and Ocean Grove, before you encounter the lively murals and iconic landmarks of the Asbury Park boardwalk.

This moderate 4.9-mile (7.8 km) jogging route features a minimal 42 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for nearly all fitness levels and achievable in about 48 minutes. The terrain is mostly flat and paved, providing a smooth surface. Parking is generally available in Asbury Park, and the area's numerous cafes and restaurants offer great post-run refreshment options.

What truly sets this route apart is its unique blend of natural tranquility and lively coastal charm. The bridge crossing Wesley Lake provides picturesque views, and the option to step onto the beach for a sand run adds versatility. Plus, the Asbury Park boardwalk's cultural landmarks like the Wonder Bar and The Stone Pony make this more than just a workout; it's a scenic tour of the Jersey Shore.

The Belmar Boardwalk loop from Neptune City offers a delightful coastal jogging experience, primarily along flat, paved boardwalks that provide incredible panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. You'll enjoy the fresh sea air and expansive beaches, with very little obstruction to your ocean vistas. This route is a favorite among local runners for its serene atmosphere and the opportunity to stretch your legs along the shore.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Belmar Boardwalk is a popular year-round destination. While the route is generally accessible, consider visiting during off-peak hours for a less crowded jogging experience. Parking can be found in the surrounding areas of Neptune City and Belmar, though specific public transport options are not detailed.

This moderate 4.1-mile (6.6 km) jogging route, with a minimal 23 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 40 minutes to complete. The Belmar Boardwalk itself was rebuilt after Hurricane Sandy using Trex, a composite material, ensuring a comfortable, splinter-free surface. Notably, bikes are not permitted on the Bradley Beach Boardwalk section, making it a more pedestrian-friendly environment for joggers.