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Onondaga Creek – Thornden Park loop from Syracuse

Routes

Running trails & routes

Onondaga Creek – Thornden Park loop from Syracuse

Hard

4.6

(4758)

16,172

runners

Onondaga Creek – Thornden Park loop from Syracuse

01:47

17.0km

150m

Running

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: May 27, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

378 m

Armory Square

Highlight • Settlement

In this area of Syracuse there are many restaurants, bars and various microbreweries.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

526 m

Onondaga Creek

Highlight • River

When the snow melts and there is heavy rain, this small river can become quite dangerous.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

14.1 km

Thornden Park

Highlight • Natural

76-acre Thornden Park is a pleasant urban refuge with almost anything you could want: Flowers? There's a rose garden and a lily pond. Performing arts? There's an amphitheater and stage. …

Tip by

17.0 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

7.18 km

5.48 km

4.17 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

6.71 km

6.54 km

3.56 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (190 m)

Lowest point (120 m)

Weather

Today

Friday 26 June

24°C

16°C

56 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Description

If you're an experienced jogger in Syracuse looking for a real workout that blends urban exploration with lush parkland, the Onondaga Creek – Thornden Park loop from Syracuse is definitely worth your time. This difficult 10.6 miles (17.0 km) route packs in 506 feet (154 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete, making it a solid choice for those who want a diverse and demanding run.

What to expect on Onondaga Creek – Thornden Park loop from Syracuse

The journey starts along the Onondaga Creekwalk, where you'll weave through urban landscapes, passing historic Armory Square and eventually reaching views of Onondaga Lake. This section is mostly flat and paved, offering a smooth run. As you transition into Thornden Park, the terrain shifts dramatically. Expect rolling hills and moderate inclines as you explore this urban oasis, encountering the vibrant E.M. Mills Memorial Rose Garden, a serene lily pond with a waterfall, and an historic amphitheater. From the park's highest points, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Syracuse, including picturesque sunsets over Onondaga Lake. This dynamic change in scenery and elevation makes it a demanding run, best suited for those with good fitness looking for an engaging experience.

Planning your visit

This loop is primarily on paved surfaces, making it suitable for jogging in most conditions. Both the Creekwalk and Thornden Park offer amenities like benches and lighting, and the park includes playgrounds and sports courts. The northern end of the Onondaga Creekwalk, near Onondaga Lake, is also known as a birder's paradise, so keep an eye out for local wildlife. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the diverse scenery and historical points of interest.