Autumn is one of the most amazing times of year for a scenic run. As the colors of the leaves change, you can see nature's unique beauty emerge. Fall scenery can be breathtaking, giving you a special view of the eco system in all it's glory, halfway between the lush blossoms of summer and the crisp dryness of winter. It's also cool enough to really enjoy heating up during a long nature run.
If you love running trails in the autumn, we're delighted to suggest ten of the best trails to enjoy the fall foliage in landscapes all over the US. No two running trails are the same, and each one has its own special beauty.
Top 10 US Running Trails for Autumn Foliage
1. Maine: Kennebec Valley Trail
Maine is well-known as one of the best places to watch the leaves turn, and you can't beat the breathtaking scenery of the Kennebec Valley Trail. There are over 40,000 miles of running trail maps, but you can choose a route that is the right length for you as you run through the vibrant autumn sugar pines, cottonwoods, red oaks, elms, hemlocks, and beeches. Loop past several glittering lakes and maybe even spot a moose on the way.
2. New Hampshire/Massachusetts: Nashua River Trail
In a park on the border between New Hampshire and Massachusetts, you will find the Nashua River Trail, a legendary running and biking trail to visit during the fall changing of the leaves. This 11-mile trail winds past the river through beautiful trees and local farmland. It is paved and smooth with absolutely gorgeous foliage in every direction. There are also park amenities and fishing spots, so you don't have to run the whole trail at once.
3. Virginia: Guest River Gorge Trail
If you're passing through Virginia, you simply must run the Guest River Gorge Trail. Only 5.8 miles long, the running trail follows an ancient rail and features 300 M year old sandstone cliffs above the Guest River. You will also pass through the 20s era Swede Tunnel, a shady and mysterious experience. Of course, what you really want to see are the trees. Virginia is known for its red maples, redbuds, hemlock trees, dogwood, birch, and persimmon.
4. Washington: Ferry County Rail Trail
Washington is one of the most thickly forested states in the country where you can see a spectacular display of autumn foliage as the leaves turn. Ferry County Rail Trail is a popular route to take in the autumnal beauty often used for running, biking, and even horseback riding. Follow the path of the Great Northern Railway, cross railroad bridges, and immerse yourself in a golden tunnel of autumn foliage.
5. North Carolina: Salem Lake Trail
North Carolina is a great place for nature hikes and a destination for adventure enthusiasts. One of the best places for an autumn run is the Salem Lake Trail, a 7-mile path of dirt, sand, and gravel ideal for variable terrain running. not only will you see the vibrant autumn leaves of a North Carolina fall, but the surface of Salem Lake also acts as a reflecting pool, providing you with double the beauty.
6. Colorado: Pawnee Buchanan Loop
Colorado has a uniquely stark beauty where desert meets forest in the Rocky Mountains. One of the most breathtaking places for a fall run is the Pawnee Buchanan Loop. It is among the lusher natural terrains of Colorado, where you can see a combination of fall foliage in the deciduous trees in a landscape of eternal pines and low flowering shrubs. This 27-mile loop travels from Brainard Lake Trailhead, past the waterfalls of Buchanan pass, and down to Pawnee Lake.
7. Idaho: Wood River Trail
The Midwest also has some great autumn views. Check out the Wood River Trail in Idaho. It is known only as "the bike path" to locals, but this 36-mile natural rail-trail is also fantastic for running. The central trail is over 20 miles long and connects the Wood River Valley to the sun Valley. This path features amazing views as you follow the river, go over rail bridges, and discover the color-changing wonder of Idaho in the fall.
8. Pennsylvania: Clarion-Little Toby Trail
Pennsylvania is legendary for its amazing autumn foliage, and you'll enjoy its full beauty on the Clarion-Little Toby Trail. This rail trail offers a vibrant pathway surrounded by color-changing trees in every direction. With 18 miles of crushed stone for traction, you'll get your autumn workout, and you might even meet a few deer and wild turkeys on the route.
9. California: Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail
There are even great autumn trails all the way out in California. The Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail travels through Susan River Canion, featuring thick woodlands that you wouldn't expect from the sun-drenched state. The trail will take you through golden foliage tunnels, surprising canyon views, tunnels, and trestles as you run through 25.4 miles along the old Fernlay and Lassen Branch Line of the Southern Pacific Railroad.
10. New Jersey: Henry Hudson Trail
Back in the Northeast, you will find the Henry Hudson Trail in New Jersey, offering a unique blend of urban and natural surroundings, each decorated with vibrant autumn foliage. The trail is paved and broad and splits into 2 sections. The Northern section is 12 miles long and travels past Sandy Hook Bay to Popamora Point.
Preparing for an Autumn Trail Run
Whether you are finding your autumn running trails close to home or taking a yearly soujurn to see the leaves change, remember to prepare. Most of these nature trails are long, so pack your running belt, water bottle, and your best running shoes, so don't forget to layer up for those crisp mornings and consider bringing a light snack for the journey. With the right gear, you'll be ready to fully enjoy the beauty of the season.
