The best running trails around Riverside
3.3
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348
runners
71
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Jogging around Riverside offers a diverse range of landscapes, from prominent hills to extensive river trails and serene park paths. The city features well-maintained trail systems and numerous parks, providing varied terrain for runners of all levels. Natural features like Mount Rubidoux and the Santa Ana River offer distinct running experiences, while areas such as Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park present more challenging routes through hills and canyons. Riverside's landscape is further characterized by preserved open spaces and scenic avenues, making it a compelling environment for outdoor activities.
Best jogging routes around Riverside
- The most popular jogging route is Mad River Recreation Trail, a 13.5 miles (21.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 14 minutes to complete. This difficult route features varied terrain suitable for experienced runners.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Eastwood Park Buckeye Trail, an easy 2.5 miles (4.0 km) path. This route offers a gentle elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed run through park scenery.
- Local runners also love the Creekside Trail, a 10.6 miles (17.0 km) trail leading through natural landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Jogging around Riverside is defined by river paths, park loops, and challenging routes through hills and canyons. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy park runs to more demanding trails.
- The routes in Riverside are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.3 stars from 3 reviews. More than 390 runners have used komoot to explore Riverside's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 18, 2026
7
runners
21.7km
02:14
60m
60m
The Mad River Recreation Trail in Dayton, Ohio, offers a surprisingly varied jogging experience, blending urban vistas with natural riverfront scenery. As you follow the paved path, you'll enjoy continuous views of the Mad River, pass through the green expanses of Eastwood MetroPark with its lake and gardens, and even catch glimpses of the downtown Dayton skyline and the impressive Five Rivers Fountain of Lights. This 13.5-mile (21.7 km) route, while mostly flat, is rated difficult due to its length, making it a great option for runners seeking a longer, engaging outing.
Planning your run is straightforward, with ample parking typically available at Eastwood MetroPark, a convenient hub that also offers picnic areas and a playground. The trail is part of a much larger network, connecting seamlessly to the Creekside Recreation Trail and the Great Miami River Recreation Trail, which means you have plenty of options for extending your run or exploring different routes. Given its paved surface, the trail is generally accessible for jogging year-round, though checking local conditions is always wise.
What makes this trail stand out is its role as a vital link within one of the nation's largest networks of off-street trails, offering incredible connectivity for extended adventures. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll also pass by the U.S. Air Force Museum, adding an interesting cultural backdrop to your run. It's a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a long, diverse jogging route that combines natural beauty with urban and historical points of interest.
3.0
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6
runners
3.96km
00:28
0m
10m
Enjoy an easy 2.5-mile jog on the Eastwood Park Buckeye Trail, winding through Eastwood MetroPark with river views and wildlife spotting.
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2
runners
17.0km
01:45
60m
60m
Jog the difficult 10.6-mile Creekside Trail, gaining 207 feet in elevation, with a scenic Stone Bridge at Eastwood MetroPark.
2.30km
00:16
0m
0m
The Huffman Prairie Trail offers a truly unique jogging experience, blending historical significance with natural beauty across varied terrain. You'll find yourself on mowed grass paths through restored prairie land, tracing the flight path where the Wright Brothers perfected controlled flight, and passing replicas of their 1905 hangar. The open prairie landscapes burst with diverse wildflowers and native grasses, especially in late July, making it a vibrant spot for birding and spotting butterflies.
Planning your visit is straightforward, though it's wise to check for any base closures as part of the trail is within Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. This easy 1.4-mile (2.3 km) jogging route has a minimal 4 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, accessible run. The Huffman Prairie Trail terrain includes both paved sections and grassy paths, with a short, steep climb to the Wright Brothers Memorial for those seeking a viewpoint.
Beyond its appeal as a jogging trail, the Huffman Prairie Trail is a significant landmark, preserving the location where the Wright Brothers made aviation history. It's also one of Ohio's largest native prairie remnants, showcasing a rich diversity of flora and fauna. This trail is an excellent choice for anyone interested in a short, easy jog that combines a dose of American history with beautiful natural surroundings.
3.40km
00:22
10m
10m
The Huffman Prairie Bikeway offers a delightful blend of history and nature, perfect for an easy jog. You'll follow a mostly paved path through the very grounds where the Wright brothers made aviation history, passing replicas of their hangar and launching catapult. The route also winds through one of Ohio's largest native prairie remnants, showcasing vibrant wildflowers and offering excellent birdwatching opportunities, particularly near Huffman MetroPark River View. Expect gentle terrain with some rolling hills and minimal shade in sections, making it a pleasant, varied experience.
This multi-use trail is easily accessible and dog-friendly, making it a great choice for a quick outing. While the main path is paved, some areas within the Huffman Prairie State Natural Landmark feature unpaved grassy sections, so wear appropriate footwear. Parking is available at various access points, and it's generally a good idea to bring water, especially on warmer days, due to the limited shade.
More than just a jogging path, the Huffman Prairie Bikeway is an integral part of the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park and the extensive Miami Valley Trail System. It connects downtown Fairborn with Huffman Reserve MetroPark and even passes Wright State University. This trail offers a unique opportunity to experience a significant piece of American history while enjoying the natural beauty of a restored prairie landscape.
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Popular around Riverside
Tips from the Community
Eastwood Metro Park is one of the most beautiful in the Dayton Area. Large, easily accessible parking lot, BBQ shelters, public toilet and lots of nature.
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If you want to see the city silhouette from a different perspective, you can do so from here. A bridge takes you to the other side.
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There is a partially paved, partially grass trail within Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. The trail is flat, short, and a great place to stretch the legs without having to run on a sidewalk. You can also learn about history along the way.
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Huffman MetroPark has a few miles of wooded and grassy trails that spend some time locked in the trees along with some time right next to the water of the lake. The trails are pretty flat and great for seasoned and new trail runners, alike.
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Buckeye Trail is the main nature trail in Eastwood MetroPark. It gets right up next to the water at times and includes other sections that are on tight singletrack in the trees. You can combine this trail to a few of the other paths to make different loops in the park.
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The Creekside Trail actually totals over 15 miles in one direction and connects various parks and trailheads from Xenia to Dayton. This particular section starts a long stretch along the interstate corridor. It's kind of close to the road, but you're in a tunnel of trees for a lot of the path.
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The Fifth Third Gateway Trailhead has a sizable parking area, restrooms, a pavilion, and access to the Creekside Trail. This is a popular starting point for runs since it's just off the side of the interstate.
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Deeds Point is a city park that is best known for its views. You get a great shot of the Dayton skyline from the paths near the water, and you can easily spot the Five Rivers Fountain of Lights from anywhere in the park. There is a parking area here that offers access to both the Mad River Recreation Trail and Great Miami River Trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Riverside?
Riverside offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 75 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy park loops to more challenging trails through hills and canyons.
What types of terrain can I expect on jogging trails in Riverside?
You'll find diverse terrain for jogging in Riverside. Options include paved paths with panoramic city views like those on Mount Rubidoux, long and generally flatter multi-use trails along the Santa Ana River, and challenging routes through hills and canyons in areas like Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. Historic, tree-lined avenues such as Victoria Avenue also offer scenic on-road running.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running paths in Riverside?
Yes, Riverside has several easy running options perfect for beginners or a relaxed jog. For instance, the 1.2-mile loop around Lake Evans in Fairmount Park is ideal for a quick, relaxing run. Additionally, sections of the Santa Ana River Trail offer flatter terrain suitable for an easier pace.
Where can I find challenging running trails in Riverside?
For a more challenging run, consider the 7.9-mile loop in Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, which features varied terrain and city views. The ascent and descent on Mount Rubidoux also provide a moderate challenge with its 3.4-mile loop and elevation changes.
What are some scenic running routes with good views in Riverside?
Mount Rubidoux is a top choice for scenic views, offering panoramic city vistas from its 3.4-mile loop. The Santa Ana River Trail also provides varied scenery as it winds through urban areas and natural habitats. For a unique aesthetic, Victoria Avenue is known for its historic, tree-lined beauty and orange blossoms.
Are there any dog-friendly jogging trails in Riverside?
Many of Riverside's outdoor spaces are dog-friendly, though leash laws and specific park regulations apply. The Santa Ana River Trail is generally a good option for running with dogs, offering ample space. Always check local signage for specific rules in parks like Mount Rubidoux or Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park.
Which running routes are suitable for families in Riverside?
For family-friendly jogging, the easy 1.2-mile loop around Lake Evans in Fairmount Park is a great choice, offering a relaxed environment. Sections of the Santa Ana River Trail are also suitable for families due to their generally flat and wide paths. The paved trail on Mount Rubidoux is popular with families for its accessible ascent and scenic views.
What landmarks or attractions can I see while jogging in Riverside?
While jogging in Riverside, you can encounter several notable landmarks. The Mount Rubidoux loop features historical landmarks including the Peace Tower. The California Citrus State Historic Park offers paths through fragrant citrus groves, combining history with nature. Fairmount Park boasts Lake Evans and a rose garden. For specific points of interest, you might find highlights like Fifth Third Gateway Park and Ride Facility or Taylorsville Dam listed on komoot tours, though these specific examples may be outside the immediate Riverside area.
Are there loop running routes available in Riverside?
Yes, Riverside offers several excellent loop running routes. The 3.4-mile loop on Mount Rubidoux is a popular choice, providing a complete circuit with city views. The 1.2-mile loop around Lake Evans in Fairmount Park is another easy and accessible option for a circular run.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Riverside?
The running community highly rates Riverside's diverse trails, with an average score of 3.3 stars from komoot users. Runners often praise the variety of landscapes, from prominent hills offering panoramic views to extensive river trails and serene park paths. The well-maintained trail systems and numerous parks are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects.
Is public transport available to access jogging trails in Riverside?
Public transport options are available in Riverside to reach various parks and trailheads. For example, local bus services can provide access to areas near Mount Rubidoux Park and Fairmount Park. For specific routes and schedules, it's best to consult the Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) website.
Are there any permits required for jogging on trails in Riverside?
Generally, permits are not required for casual jogging on public trails and in parks within Riverside. However, for specific wilderness areas or special events, it's always advisable to check with the relevant park authority, such as the City of Riverside Parks and Recreation Department, for any specific regulations or requirements.
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