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United States
South Carolina
Horry County

Briarcliffe Acres

The best running trails around Briarcliffe Acres

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated June 1, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Briarcliffe Acres, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in: our komoot community has mapped, run, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best. Consider this your shortcut to finding the perfect run.

Jogging around Briarcliffe Acres truly feels like a breath of fresh air. This tranquil community offers a unique blend of private, uncrowded beaches with rolling dunes and heavily wooded areas shaded by mature oak and pine trees, alongside natural lakes and marshlands. You'll find everything from moderate park loops to more difficult coastal paths, ensuring there's a route for every mood and fitness level.

For a fantastic park experience, we'd start with the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Loop, a moderate 7.5 miles (12.1 km) that’s perfect for a steady pace through varied park settings. If you're looking for extensive coastal views and a more challenging run, the Windy Hill Beach – Atlantic Beach loop from Briarcliffe Acres offers a great 5.8 miles (9.3 km) along the coast. More than 100 runners have already explored these routes with komoot, so dive in and discover your next favorite run!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Loop
  2. 2

    Windy Hill Beach – Atlantic Beach loop from Briarcliffe Acres
  3. 3

    Windy Hill Beach loop from Atlantic Beach

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Loop

12.1 km

10 m

Moderate

Windy Hill Beach – Atlantic Beach loop from Briarcliffe Acres

9.40 km

10 m

Moderate

Windy Hill Beach loop from Atlantic Beach

8.86 km

10 m

Moderate

Kingston Beach – Apache Beach loop from Cottage Beach

5.96 km

0 m

Moderate

Meher Beach loop from Kingston Beach

6.54 km

0 m

Moderate

Atlantic Beach loop from Briarcliffe Acres

4.62 km

0 m

Easy

Windy Hill Beach – Yow Park Playground loop from Atlantic Beach

13.7 km

50 m

Moderate

North Myrtle Beach – Crescent Beach loop from North Myrtle Beach

10.2 km

0 m

Moderate

Running loop from Sweetbriar

9.21 km

20 m

Moderate

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1.

North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Loop

12.1km

01:17

10m

10m

The North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Loop offers a refreshing escape into nature, winding through peaceful woodlands and meadows. You'll jog around a picturesque 25-acre lake, including Cypress Lake, and pass through a 12-acre Carolina Bay, providing diverse scenery and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The varied terrain, from natural paths to gravel and paved sections, keeps the 7.5-mile (12.1 km) route engaging and enjoyable for a sustained workout.

Located within the 162-acre North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex, this trail is easy to access with ample parking and restrooms available. It's a moderate route that takes about 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete, making it a great option for a morning or afternoon run. No special permits are needed, so you can simply show up and hit the trail.

This loop is part of the Peter Horry Wildlife Preserve, blending managed parkland with serene natural sections. Its gentle 45 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain makes it suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners looking for a longer, yet not overly strenuous, jogging experience. The integration of the trail within the larger complex means you have amenities close by, but the route itself feels wonderfully natural.

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2.

Windy Hill Beach – Atlantic Beach loop from Briarcliffe Acres

9.40km

01:06

10m

10m

This scenic loop takes you along the beautiful coastline of North Myrtle Beach, offering a refreshing jogging experience with constant ocean breezes. You'll primarily be on paved surfaces, but expect stretches of packed sand near Windy Hill Beach, providing a softer, low-impact option right by the Atlantic Ocean. It's a fantastic way to soak in the coastal atmosphere while getting your miles in, with residential areas blending into the natural beach environment.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this accessible route. The trail is mostly flat, with only 20 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain over its 5.8 miles (9.4 km), making it a moderate jog that takes about 1 hour and 6 minutes. It's an ideal choice for regular runners seeking a consistent pace without challenging ascents. Consider an early morning or late evening start to enjoy cooler temperatures and the best light for those stunning ocean views.

What makes this route stand out is its seamless blend of a good workout with the natural beauty of the Grand Strand. You get to experience the vibrant atmosphere of a popular beach community while enjoying the serene views of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a great option if you're looking for a dog friendly jogging trail near Briarcliffe Acres that combines accessibility with a truly coastal feel.

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3.

Windy Hill Beach loop from Atlantic Beach

8.86km

01:03

10m

10m

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

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8.

North Myrtle Beach – Crescent Beach loop from North Myrtle Beach

10.2km

01:14

0m

0m

This North Myrtle Beach – Crescent Beach loop offers a delightful coastal jogging experience, blending the soft, packed sands of the beach with potential stretches of paved path or boardwalk. You'll enjoy expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, particularly if you start early enough to witness the sunrise over the Cherry Grove Pier. The route provides a peaceful escape, especially along the less commercialized Crescent Beach, making it ideal for a refreshing workout.

Planning your visit is straightforward; ample parking is typically available near public beach access points and local parks. To make the most of your run and avoid the heat, aim for an early morning or late afternoon start. This moderate 6.4-mile (10.2 km) jog, with a negligible 2 feet (1 metre) of elevation gain, takes approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick, scenic outing.

The North Myrtle Beach area is renowned for its diverse natural environments, from the immediate coastline to marshlands and preserves. While this specific loop focuses on the beach, the region's trails often provide opportunities to observe local wildlife, including various bird species. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast while getting some exercise.

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Tips from the Community

Matthew
December 15, 2023, Windy Hill Beach

Windy Hill Beach backs up to a long row of hotels and residential neighborhoods. The beach is a popular spot for early morning and late evening runs and walks, but the shore can be kind of crowded in the middle of the day (especially on weekends).

0

0

Matthew
December 15, 2023, Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach is both a small town and a public beach area just down the shoreline from North Myrtle Beach. You can walk the sandy beach and connect to other beaches and piers nearby.

0

0

Wilko Koning
April 13, 2023, Cypress Lake

Cypress Lake offers a wonderful 1+ mile trail loop around the lake. While running around the lake you might catch some action from the Shark Wake Park!

1

0

Across the street from North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex, you'll find the North Myrtle Beach Nature Trail. It will feel much more remote than the other trails around the complex because there are no sports fields.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many running routes are available in and around Briarcliffe Acres?

There are over 25 running routes available in and around Briarcliffe Acres, offering a variety of experiences for joggers. These routes range from moderate to difficult in terms of challenge.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the running trails in Briarcliffe Acres?

Jogging routes in Briarcliffe Acres feature diverse terrain. You can expect runs along the pristine, uncrowded private beach with rolling dunes, as well as shaded paths through heavily wooded areas with mature oak and pine trees. Some routes also pass by lakes and natural marshlands, offering a varied natural landscape.

Are there any running routes that offer coastal views or beach access?

Yes, several routes provide excellent coastal views and beach access. The private beach in Briarcliffe Acres is ideal for beach runs. For a specific route, consider the Crescent Beach – Windy Hill Beach loop from Briarcliffe Acres, which leads through coastal areas. Another option is the more challenging Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk loop from Woodsy Parking Garage, which offers extensive coastal views along the boardwalk.

Are there any family-friendly running paths in the area?

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't provided, the shaded streets within the Briarcliffe Acres community offer pleasant routes for leisurely jogs, which can be suitable for families. Additionally, the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Loop is a moderate trail through park settings, which might be a good option for families.

What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see while running?

Briarcliffe Acres is rich in natural beauty. Runners can enjoy views of rolling dunes, mature oak and pine trees, lakes, and natural marsh areas. The community is also designated as a Bird Sanctuary and a Tree City. Habitat Park and Green Park offer peaceful nature spots overlooking North Lake. While not directly on a running route, Apache Pier is just 3 miles away and offers scenic views.

When is the best time of year to go jogging in Briarcliffe Acres?

Briarcliffe Acres offers a tranquil environment suitable for outdoor activities year-round. The coastal location means milder winters, and the heavily wooded areas provide natural shade during warmer months. Early mornings and late evenings are particularly popular for beach runs to avoid the heat and crowds.

Are there any loop running routes available?

Yes, several loop running routes are available. Popular options include the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Loop, the Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk loop from Woodsy Parking Garage, and the Crescent Beach – Windy Hill Beach loop from Briarcliffe Acres.

Where can I find parking for running trails in Briarcliffe Acres?

While specific parking details for all routes are not listed, the Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk loop specifically mentions starting from a 'Woodsy Parking Garage', indicating parking availability for that route. For other routes, parking may be available near trailheads or within the community, especially for those utilizing the private beach or shaded streets.

What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Briarcliffe Acres?

Runners frequently praise the tranquil environment and the diverse scenery. The combination of pristine, uncrowded beaches and shaded, heavily wooded paths with mature trees, lakes, and marshlands offers a unique and enjoyable experience. The community's commitment to preserving natural beauty is often highlighted.

Are there any longer, more challenging running routes for experienced runners?

Yes, for experienced runners seeking a challenge, the Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk loop from Woodsy Parking Garage is a difficult 12.1-mile (19.5 km) path that provides extensive coastal views and a longer distance. Most other routes are classified as moderate, offering a good balance of distance and effort.

Can I find running routes that are less crowded?

Briarcliffe Acres is known for its tranquil environment and lack of overdevelopment. The private beach is described as pristine and uncrowded, making it an excellent option for a quieter run. The shaded streets within the community also offer peaceful routes away from busier areas.

Are there any running routes near places to eat or get coffee?

While specific cafes directly on routes are not detailed, Briarcliffe Acres is conveniently located near various attractions. Barefoot Landing, a popular destination featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment, is only minutes away and could be a good option for refreshments after a run.

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