This post details three locations that are a paradise for runners to let loose and experience the runner’s high.
As beneficial as running on a treadmill can be, sometimes, you need to venture into the great outdoors to touch base with your love of running and find a paradise for runners.
There’s nothing quite like being able to head into a wide open space, work up a sweat, and admire the picturesque views that unfold before you with every step.
If running is an important part of your travel plans, then it’s safe to say you can run anywhere. Every city has a park and every rural area has a trail you can follow.
However, some places on this planet promise truly spectacular running experiences above and beyond the norm. So why not consider these when booking your next trip?
#1: Yosemite National Park, California
Anywhere in Yosemite National Park will make for an exciting running experience, featuring breathtaking natural views that will delight you. However, there is one particular road that is known for its ability to thrill runners: Glacier Point Road.
Weave high above the valleys falls, and picturesque landscape, pausing to delight at the numerous viewing points along the way, making this a paradise for runners.
If you do decide to run Glacier Point Road, it’s worth giving yourself a couple of days to acclimatize. The altitude at the peak of Glacier Point itself is over 7,000 ft; the valley beneath is still over 3,000 ft above sea level.
These numbers aren’t too concerning — especially if you’re already fairly fit — but most runners prefer to explore the lower trails before ascending up Glacier Point Road itself.
#2: Brisbane City Loop, Australia
The Brisbane city loop is a popular 9km long run and features all the best sights of one of Australia’s biggest and best cities. Here’s how to piece it together:
- Start at the famous Brisbane Botanic Gardens, which are well worth exploring as a gentle warm-up for your run.
- Cross the stunning Goodwill Bridge, which spans the Brisbane River. This bridge is particularly fun to run, as it does not carry any motorized transport; only pedestrians and cyclists are allowed!
- Continue through the South Bank, the cultural heart of Brisbane.
- Finish at Eagle Street Pier, where you can relax and rehydrate in this famous culinary district.
If you’re looking for a city loop, then they don’t get much better than Brisbane. Just remember that if traveling during the summer months (December, January, and February in Australia) Brisbane can be hot.
You’ll need to ensure you’ve got plentiful supplies of natural sunscreen and water, as well as timing your run to avoid the heat of the midday sun.
#3: Peak District, UK
The Peak District is one of the national parks of England and offers a wide range of different experiences for runners who are happy to go off-road. As the name implies, the Peak District is a warren of peaks and valleys, providing stunning scenery that makes for a running expedition unlike any other.
The Derwent Edge route is probably the best-known running route in the Peak District and allows for truly stunning views over the Derwent Valley and reservoir system. The conventional route is around 14km, making this a paradise for runners.
If you’d prefer not to go off-road, circle through the reservoir system itself, which has wide sidewalks that are perfect for runners.
Do you think any of the destinations above might tempt you to visit?