The best running trails around Lima

This easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) jogging loop from Swarthmore offers a delightful blend of campus beauty and natural woodland serenity, perfect for a quick escape. You'll glide through the scenic Swarthmore College campus, past the impressive Scott Arboretum, before dipping into the tranquil, forested paths of Crum Woods. With only 154 feet (47 metres) of elevation gain, this route is designed for a relaxed 30-minute run, making it an ideal choice for a refreshing outdoor experience.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trails are easily accessible from the Swarthmore College campus, where visitor parking is typically available. While the Crum Woods offers more challenging terrain elsewhere, this specific loop is a "no-sweat" option, making it great for a casual outing. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and remember that trail conditions can vary with weather, especially after rain.

The Swarthmore trail network is celebrated for its remarkable diversity, offering everything from paved paths to more technical singletracks within a compact area. The Crum Woods, a significant natural feature, serves as a living classroom for the college and provides a vital green space in Delaware County. This particular loop highlights the area's natural beauty and accessibility, making it a popular choice among the Komoot community for its well-maintained and scenic paths.

The White Trail – Ridley Creek overlook loop offers a robust jogging experience through Ridley Creek State Park's diverse landscape. You'll navigate a mix of mature forests, open fields, and tranquil meadows, with picturesque views along Ridley Creek for much of the 13.7-mile (22.0 km) journey. The route includes 1082 feet (330 metres) of elevation gain, making it a difficult challenge that takes around 2 hours and 38 minutes to complete, best suited for those with very good fitness.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is well-marked with white blazes, and parking is available within Ridley Creek State Park. The park welcomes leashed dogs, so your furry friend can join the adventure. Spring is a particularly beautiful time to go, as wildflowers add splashes of color to the varied scenery.

This trail is part of a larger system, allowing for connections to other routes if you want to extend your run. Be aware that some sections are multi-use, so you might share the path with mountain bikers or horseback riders. The park's 2,600 acres provide a refreshing outdoor experience with typical eastern deciduous forest flora and riparian ecosystems along the creek.

The Crumhenge loop offers a truly unique jogging experience through the Crum Woods, blending natural beauty with a touch of local lore. You'll navigate a mix of gravel and dirt paths, winding past dense woodlands, open meadows, and scenic creek views of the Crum Creek. The highlight is undoubtedly Crumhenge itself, a fascinating circular arrangement of boulders that feels like a hidden gem, providing a memorable focal point for your run.

This moderate 4.5-mile (7.3 km) route, with 314 feet (96 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 48 minutes to complete. While some sections are flat and easy, be prepared for inclines, timber steps, and rugged parts with roots and rocks that demand attention. The trail is well-suited for joggers who appreciate varied terrain and a bit of a challenge, especially if you enjoy pushing yourself on rewarding climbs.

Part of the broader Swarthmore trail network, the Crumhenge loop is nestled within the 220-acre Crum Woods, an integral part of Swarthmore College's campus. Beyond its recreational appeal, the woods serve as a living laboratory for academic study and ecological research, boasting diverse woodlands, meadow plants, and one of the country's finest Holly Collections. It's a tranquil escape, often punctuated only by the gentle sounds of nature and the occasional SEPTA train.