Lacing up on Houston’s Best Running Trails
- Explore the 6th Ward or Historic District
- Embark on an Adventure at the Armand Bayou Nature Center
- Combine Running with Sports at the Bear Creek Pioneers Park
- Roam through the Brazos Bend State Park
- Discover Serenity at the Buffalo Bayou Park
- Journey through the Brays Bayou Park
- Run in Forests and Swamplands at the George Bush Park
- Traverse the George Mitchell Nature Preserve
- Savor the Architecture at the Heights Neighborhood
- Wander around Hermann Park
- Take a Post-Run Dip at the Lake Houston Wilderness Park
- Venture into Memorial Park
- Spot Art on Your Run at the Paul Carr Jogging Trail
- Appreciate Architecture at the Rice University Loop
- Hike and Run through the Sam Houston National Forest
- Turn a Run into an Afternoon at the Terry Hershey Park
- Enjoy a Quiet Run at the Yolanda Black Navarro Buffalo Bend Nature Park
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger seeking a scenic escape, Houston’s diverse views and scenery offers an extensive collection of running trails that can elevate your fitness routine or awaken your inner adventurer.
We’re embarking on a journey through the. So, lace up your running shoes, hydrate, and let’s set out on an adventure and go for a run!
Explore the 6th Ward or Historic District
Image Source: Downtown Houston Organization Website
Address: The Six Wards, Houston, TX, United States
Nestled near the downtown area, the 6th Ward or Houston’s Historic District offers a unique blend of history and running trails. This residential area plays host to buildings dating all the way back to the late 19th century.
As you jog through this charming district, you’ll find yourself almost immersed in a bygone era, surrounded by Victorian houses lining the streets. Don’t forget to explore the nearby parks like Midtown Park for a trail that’s closer to nature.
| Pro Tip: For more interesting scenery, you can take a detour to the Glenwood Cemetery, where you can comfortably run amid the 84-acre space. It’s the final resting place of iconic Houstonians, but also offers tranquil paths and a peaceful atmosphere. |
Embark on an Adventure at the Armand Bayou Nature Center
Image Source: Armand Bayou Nature Center Website
Address: 8500 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, TX 77058, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 474 2551
Hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday – 9 am to 5 pm
- Sunday – 12 pm to 5 pm
If you want to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, you can do that at the expansive Armand Bayou Nature Center, a 2,500-acre urban wilderness preserve. It’s home to an impressive five miles of trails that wind through different ecosystems.
The wetlands, prairies, and forests offer an excellent opportunity to connect with the local wildlife while on your run. If you’re short on time, try the Discovery Loop, a 1 to 2 hour run that takes you to the Environmental Learning Center.
| Pro Tip: After your run, make sure you drop by the many sites within the nature center like the John P. McGovern Children’s Discovery Area. The Bison Viewing Platform and the farm from the 1800s are also great places to take a breather in between your run. |
Combine Running with Sports at the Bear Creek Pioneers Park
Address: 3535 War Memorial St, Houston, TX 77084, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 496 2177
Hours: Everyday 7 am to 10 pm
Bear Creek Pioneers Park, spanning over 2,155 acres, offers a wide array of running options. On the northeast part, you’ll find a well-lit trail suitable for both day and evening runs.
If you’re in the mood for an extended jog, you can try and explore the Cullen Park Hike and Bike Trail, an eight-mile concrete paved course shaded by trees.
This path welcomes runners of all levels and connects to other trails, allowing you to customize your route by exploring the various offshoots along the way.
| Pro Tip: For a holistic workout experience, the park also has sports areas with baseball, softball, and soccer fields, workout stations, as well as courts for tennis, horseshoe throwing, and even pickleball. |
Roam through the Brazos Bend State Park
Image Source: Brazos Bend State Park — Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Website
Address: 21901 Farm to Market Rd 762, Needville, TX 77461, United States
Phone Number: +1 979 553 5101
Hours: Everyday 8 am to 10 pm
If you head just an hour southwest of Houston, and you’ll discover one of the best places to go for a run. Brazos Bend State Park is a 5,000-acre state park that’s a runner’s dream with its mix of marsh, prairie, and woodland landscapes.
While jogging along the park’s 37 miles of multi-use trails, you’ll find yourself amidst breathtaking natural scenery and an abundance of wildlife, including the famed gators.
To make the most of your visit, consult the trail map. The park offers various lake loops ranging from 1.2 to 1.9 miles that can be easily combined for longer adventures.
| Pro Tip: If you like trails that are more straightforward, with minimal twists and turns, we suggest that you combine the 1.9-mile River View Trail and the 1.8-mile Sawmill Trail for a longer but more relaxed run. |
Discover Serenity at the Buffalo Bayou Park
Image Source: Buffalo Bayou Park Website
Address: Shepherd Drive to Sabine Street between Allen Parkway and, Memorial Dr, Houston, TX, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 752 0314
Hours: Everyday – 6 am to 11 pm
Within sight of the downtown skyline, Buffalo Bayou Park stands as a 160-acre urban oasis, enticing runners with its picturesque trails. These winding paths follow the meandering Buffalo Bayou and lead you through a wide variety of scenery.
You’ll see woodlands, fields with wildflowers, waterfalls, and even art installations here and there, making your run a combination of both artistic and nature-immersed.
The 1 Sandy Reed Memorial trail is open to bikers and those on foot, so if you prefer to not have to worry about bikes, you should take the Kinder Footpath that runs along the bayou’s banks lit up by a lunar-cycle lighting system in sync with the moon’s phases.
| Pro Tip: In addition to its trails, check out the Johnny Steele Dog Park, the “Dandelion” fountain, and even the famous Waugh Bat Colony where thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats take flight at sunset from March to October. |
Journey through the Brays Bayou Park
Image Source: Brays Bayou Park – City of Houston Website
Address: 9601 Braes Bayou Dr, Houston, TX 77074, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 496 2177
Hours: Open 24/7
The Brays Bayou Park is where we go for a quick run when we want to run riverside. The greenway trail for hiking and biking that runs parallel to the Brays Bayou. Stretching 31 miles, this bayou trail leads you through some great places in the city.
It flows from Fort Bend County, through the Texas Medical Center, and onwards to the Houston Ship Channel. Whether you’re starting your run from Hermann Park, Mason Park, or MacGregor Park, the bayou-side trail offers a pleasant urban escape.
| Pro Tip: Make sure you check out the collection of pedestrian bridges on the opposite side of the bayou including the Bill Coates Bridge and the Mason Park Bridge that overlooks both the parks they belong to and the water of the bayou. |
Run in Forests and Swamplands at the George Bush Park
Address: 6756 Westheimer Parkway Houston, TX 77082, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 496 2177
Hours: Everyday – 7 am to 10 pm
Located on the west side of Houston, the expansive George Bush Park spans a whopping 7,800 acres, offering an outdoor playground for running enthusiasts. Here, you’ll discover a winding network of jogging trails.
These trails lead you through thick forests, along the banks of the bayous, duck ponds, and even a swampland. The park’s unique scenery showcases nature’s calming characteristics. Just don’t forget to put on some bug spray before heading out.
| Pro Tip: For a satisfying run, explore the George Bush Park Hike & Bike Trail, an 11.4-mile route that also connects to the Terry Hershey Park Hike & Bike Trail, providing an opportunity for longer runs of up to 22 miles. |
Traverse the George Mitchell Nature Preserve
Image Source: George Mitchell Nature Preserve Website
Address: 5171 Flintridge Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77381, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 210 3800
Hours: Everyday – 6:30 am to 8 pm
If you make the drive north to The Woodlands, you’ll stumble upon the George Mitchell Nature Preserve which features a 2-mile jogging loop that winds through soil paths surrounded by dense forests and wildflowers for the authentic feel.
Also, the Flintridge Drive trailhead offers three miles of trails, giving you a chance to explore the scenic beauty of the preserve while maintaining your fitness routine.
| Pro Tip: As you revel in the beauty of the preserve on your run, be on the lookout for migrating birds and other wildlife. If you’re up for it, you can extend your run to the Spring Creek Nature Trail to really maximize the trip there. |
Savor the Architecture at the Heights Neighborhood
Image Source: Texas State Historical Society Website
For a change of pace on your run, you can head to the Heights Neighborhood. This neighborhood features meticulously restored historic bungalow homes.
You can follow the trail along Heights Boulevard, lined with public art and trees, for an ideal route with good views.
To extend your journey, consider incorporating the Heights trail, which leads southeast, or head northwest along the White Oak Bayou Trail, connecting to the eastern end of the Buffalo Bayou Trail.
| Pro Tip: After your run, explore 19th Street and shop around or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that locals and visitors go back for. Our favorite is Moon Rabbit with their authentic Vietnamese dishes like lemongrass pork and spring rolls. |
Wander around Hermann Park
Image Source: Hermann Park Conservancy Website
Address: 6001 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 526 2183
Hours: Everyday 6 am to 11 pm
Home to the Japanese and McGovern Centennial Gardens and the McGovern Lake, Hermann Park is a favorite among Houstonians. For runners, the Marvin Taylor Jogging Trail surrounded by nearly 10,000 Texas trees, some of which are almost a century old, is there for you.
Whether you choose to loop around the golf course or weave through the entire park, you’ll uncover charming bridges and beautifully landscaped gardens that provide unparalleled visuals to your run.
| Pro Tip: You can explore the park during the quieter hours of the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the serenity and peace of the area. Make sure you drop by the Jones Reflection Pool for a quick break. |
Take a Post-Run Dip at the Lake Houston Wilderness Park
Image Source: Lake Houston Wilderness Park Website
Address: 25840 FM 1485, New Caney, TX 77357, United States
Phone Number: +1 832 395 7690
Hours:
- Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday – 7 am to 6 pm
- Friday and Saturday – 7 am to 8 pm
- Tuesday – Closed
If you’re in search of an encounter with nature just beyond the city limits, Lake Houston Wilderness Park provides a great escape from the stresses of city life.
Situated on the northern edge of Lake Houston, this expansive 5,000-acre park offers over 20 miles of running trails that takes you into forested landscapes.
There’s also a refreshing creek which you can dive right into to cool off in the heat.
| Pro Tip: For an immersive experience, you should consider an overnight stay in the cabins or camping sites in the park. Just make sure you get in touch with the park’s management to reserve a slot. |
Venture into Memorial Park
Image Source: Memorial Park Conservancy Website
Address: 6501 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 863 8403
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6 am to 7 pm
- Saturday – 6 am to 6 pm
- Sunday – 6 am to 2 pm
A beloved spot for runners in Houston is Memorial Park. The Seymour Lieberman Exercise Trail, or more commonly referred to as the 3 mile loop by locals, is the most frequented route there.
For a more tranquil run, you can follow the southern side of the trail, where you’ll discover scenic trails winding through wooded areas. These paths offer ample shade which is a reprieve from the scorching Houston heat during the summer months.
It loops around the Memorial Park Golf Course so watch out for the occasional rogue golf balls.
| Pro Tip: Make the most of the well-maintained facilities by utilizing the Memorial Park Running Trails Center, where you can securely store your belongings in lockers or freshen up with a post-run shower. |
Spot Art on Your Run at the Paul Carr Jogging Trail
For a charming urban run, you don’t have to look further than the Paul Carr Jogging Trail along Heights Boulevard. Stretching from a little bit north of I-10 to 20th Streets, this 2-mile trail immerses you in history.
As you run, you’ll pass by stately mansions and Victorian-style homes with wrap-around porches.
The trail also has art installations, adding an artistic flair to your run which is extra great for people like us who need distractions to push ourselves to complete a full run.
| Pro Tip: Try to spot the iconic art installations you’ll pass by like the giant paper airplane, giant chairs, and even the World War II Monument. Just be warned that you’ll need to cross a few busy streets while on the trail, so it’s best to leave the kids at home! |
Appreciate Architecture at the Rice University Loop
Image Source: Rice University Website
Address: 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 348 0000
Hours: Open 24/7
If sun exposure is the only thing you hate about running, the Rice University Trail is the perfect path to take on your next run. Adjacent to Hermann Park, the Rice University Loop offers a 2.92-mile route through the picturesque Rice University campus.
The oak trees that call the university home provide more than enough shade for you on your run. This trail is also a paradise for architecture lovers. The old-style campus buildings and ivy-covered homes outside make for a fairytale-like setting.
Plus, the gravel path is flat, ensuring a gentle run that’s easy on your knees.
| Pro Tip: One of the key highlights is the James Turrell Twilight Epiphany Skyspace, where LED light sequences illuminate the sky during sunrise and sunset. These captivating displays are open to the public. It’s free, so go on and check it out! |
Hike and Run through the Sam Houston National Forest
Image Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture Website
Address: 394 FM 1375 West, New Waverly, TX 77358, United States
Phone Number: +1 936 344 6205
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 am to 11:30 am; 12 pm to 4:30 pm
- Saturday and Sunday – Closed
Just 50 miles north of Houston, saying that the Sam Houston National Forest is big is an understatement. The entire forest sprawls over 163,000 acres, spanning three counties and boasting a history dating back 12,000 years.
Runners can embark on the 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail. Hiking enthusiasts will find this trail, part of the National Recreation Trail, an absolute delight. The forest features three main sections within the Lone Star Hiking Trail, each with its unique character.
As you hike, you’ll encounter beautiful Lake Conroe, the Four Notch area, and the Winters Bayou and Tarkington Creek area.
| Pro Tip: The trail is typically less crowded in November and December, allowing you to more authentically immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest. But, this is deer hunting season so you should wear highly visible clothing for safety. |
Turn a Run into an Afternoon at the Terry Hershey Park
Image Source: Terry Hershey Park Website
Address: 15200 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079, United States
Phone Number: +1 281 496 2177
Hours: Everyday – 7 am to 10 pm
If you can’t decide whether you enjoy cement, gravel, or dirt more when you’re going for a run, you can find trails with a mix of all three at Terry Hershey Park. It spread across 500 acres, including some parts of Buffalo Bayou and South Mayde Creek.
The location near the bodies of water offers a great ambient noise which means you can leave your earphones at home. The Terry Hershey Park Hike & Bike Trail is a favored choice for runners, providing over 10 miles of scenic and well-lit routes.
If you can’t get enough and find yourself at the end of the trail, the Terry Hershey Trail is connected to the George Bush Park Hike and Bike Trail.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on everything else the park has to offer which includes exercise stations and a playground for the kids. There are also picnic spots, gazebos and even a butterfly garden for a full day of outdoor fun. |
Enjoy a Quiet Run at the Yolanda Black Navarro Buffalo Bend Nature Park
Image Source: Yolanda Black Navarro Buffalo Bend Nature Park Website
Address: 2300 S Sgt Macario Garcia Dr, Houston, TX 77011, USA
Phone Number: +1 713 752 0314
Hours: Everyday – 7 am to 7 pm
If you run to clear your head, we’ve got a perfect suggestion for you. The trail at the Yolanda Black Navarro Buffalo Bend Nature Park is one of the very few ones in the city and anywhere else that offers complete peace and quiet to the runners there.
The park is designated for passive recreation which means visitors aren’t allowed to engage in any activities that make noise or cause a distraction like sports and events.
This 10-acre park, formerly an industrial area, was transformed into a vibrant greenspace and wildlife conservation area. opened in 2016, with all new amenities like native wetland plants, rock walls, and winding hike and bike trails.
| Pro Tip: If you love duck ponds as much as we do, we suggest bringing some stale bread that you can crush up and feed them. It’s a great way to make them approach you to get a closer interaction with the animals. |
