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Can trail running be done in urban areas or is it limited to rural or wilderness areas?

Angie Picard

As a trail runner myself, I can confidently say that you can absolutely run trails in urban areas! While it may seem counterintuitive, cities have plenty of opportunities for trail running and getting in touch with nature - even amidst the concrete jungle!

Now, I know what you may be thinking - "But trails are supposed to be surrounded by trees and mountains, right?" Well, while that may be the case for some trails, there are plenty of options for trail running in urban areas too. For example, many cities have parks with extensive trail systems. In fact, some cities like Los Angeles have massive urban parks like Griffith Park that span over 4,000 acres! Within these parks, you can find miles upon miles of dirt trails, hills, and even streams and waterfalls. These urban parks are truly a hidden gem for runners who want to escape the chaos of city life.

Another great option for urban trail running is finding trails near bodies of water. Many big cities have waterfront areas that offer stunning views of the city skyline while still allowing for some time in nature. For example, in Chicago, you can head to the Lakefront Trail, which runs for 18 miles along the shore of Lake Michigan. While this may not be your traditional wilderness trail, it's still an incredible option for those wanting to run in an urban environment.

And if you're looking for an even more unique trail running experience in an urban area, try exploring abandoned sites. While it may sound eerie, many cities have old highways, railways, and even factories that have been abandoned and converted into trail systems. For example, in New York City, you can run the High Line - an old elevated railway that has been transformed into a stunning park and trail system that runs through the heart of the city. It's definitely not your typical trail running experience, but it's an adventure nonetheless!

So, in short, trail running is not limited to rural or wilderness areas - there are plenty of opportunities for trail running in urban areas as well. Whether it's finding trails in urban parks, exploring waterfront areas, or even discovering abandoned sites, the options are endless. So next time you're traveling to a big city, don't leave your trail running shoes behind - you may just discover a new love for urban trail running!