8.28.2025
10 Bucket List Running Trails across the USA
You’re booking your next US getaway and you’re a trail runner, a one-off experience awaits. The only decision is which part of the country to visit. From dusty deserts to ancient forest paths… Where will you go? Here are 10 of the best trail runs in the United States.
Key takeaways at a glance:
In Northeast lies the famed Appalachian Trail, accessed via New Hampshire or New York.
Shooting Southeast opens up possibilities like the Great Smoky Mountains and Chattahoochee National Forest.
In the Northwest, the Deschutes River Trail chases cascades and creeks, lush forest and alpine meadows.
Midwest, Indiana Dunes National Park supplies sandy slopes.
Southwest, runners can conquer Grand Canyon National Park and rocky routes in Zion National Park.
Out West, Lake Tahoe’s scenic trails call, along with Green Mountain’s sweeping vistas.
Why the US is the Destination of Choice for Trail Runners
All terrain types can be found in America, as can numerous trail races for competitive types. There’s also a thriving running culture near many iconic trails. Community hubs in cities like Boulder and Aspen (Colorado) offer trail tips and advice. To tap into the scene, stop by local cafes near trailheads, ranger stations, outdoor gear and running stores, or climbing gyms (popular cross-training digs for trail runners).
Northeastern Trails
1. Mount Moosilauke via Glencliff Trail and Appalachian Trail
Distance: 7.2 miles (out-and-back)
Elevation Gain: 3,200 ft
Location: White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
Why it’s Great:
Rolling hills, steeped in forestry
Phenomenal summit views over White Mountain National Forest, which change with the seasons. The reds and golds of autumn are particularly striking
Trail Surface: Mix of dirt and rocky
What to Expect:
Runnable start through serene forest trail
Wide, exposed summit with a true alpine feel
2. Bear Mountain to Harriman State Park
Distance: 15.9 miles (point-to-point)
Elevation Gain: 3,200 ft
Location: Harriman State Park, New York
Why it’s Great:
Connects two iconic New York parks via the Appalachian Trail
A mix of runnable forest paths, rocky climbs, quiet lakes, and open ridgelines
It’s perfect for trail runners seeking varied terrain, solid elevation change, and easy transit access from NYC
Trail Surface: Rolling, rocky terrain
What to Expect:
A longer route with incredible views of untouched landscapes
Navigate dense forestry and squeeze through thin boulder corridors
Racing in the Northeast
Ultra races of varying distance and terrain call the Northeast home, such as the Eastern States 100 (Pennsylvania), which starts and ends in the Little Pine State Park. Or the gruelling Manitou’s Revenge (New York), known for a 15,000 feet steep climb that gets progressively tougher as you go.
Southeastern Trail Runs
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Trillium Gap Trail to Grotto Falls
Distance: 7 miles (out-and-back)
Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft
Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Why it’s Great:
Trickling creeks guide you to the 25-foot Grotto Falls
Panoramas of Mount LeConte from the summit of Brushy Mountain
Trail Surface: Rocky and rooty
What to Expect:
A path often cloaked in the misty haze that gives the Smokies their name
Dense ancient woodland and hills present both a challenge and a treat
4. Chattahoochee National Forest, Mount Yonah Trail
Distance: 4.2 miles (out-and-back)
Elevation Gain: 1,500 ft
Location: Chattahoochee National Forest, Atlanta, Georgia
Why it’s Great:
Flowing streams, thick forestry, and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains
On clear days, the peaks of Blood Mountain and Tray Mountain emerge, along with Lake Chatuge in the far distance
Mountain views and cascading waterfalls, all under the quiet spell of nature
Terrain Surface: Rocky, can get muddy
What to Expect:
A tough climb, with a rewarding break at the top!
Soak up a real sense of wilderness; peace and quiet guaranteed
Racing in the Southeast
Seeking a challenge? Several ultra runs are hosted Southeast. The Umstead State Park 100 (North Carolina) is always well-attended. While the Stone Mountain 50k or ‘Roaring Gap’ Ultra (Georgia) tackles tough elevations but rewards participants with views from Stone Mountain’s striking granite dome.
Trail Running in the Northwest
5. The Deschutes River Trail: Tumalo Creek Falls via North Fork Trail
Distance: 6 miles (out-and-back)
Elevation Gain: 1,000 ft
Location: Deschutes National Forest, Oregon
Why it’s Great:
Wind through canyons, skirt basalt rimrock, and take in the dramatic, 97-foot Tumalo Creek Falls
Refresh with a swim in the creek on warm days
Classic high desert scenery: scrub brush, ponderosa pines, and open skies
Running Surface:
Mostly dirt trail
Dusty in drier sections
Some wet or slippery spots near the creek crossings
What to Expect:
A moderate challenge with steady climbing
Stunning waterfalls and cascades at nearly every turn
A mix of sun and shade, ideal for a morning or late-afternoon run
Racing in the Northwest
The Cascade Crest 100 (Washington) is a challenging ultra, winding through alpine lakes and dense forest. For newer runners or those after a more relaxed pace, the Timberline Half Marathon & 5K (Oregon) offers stunning views of Mount Hood and a welcoming vibe.
Trail Running in the Midwest
6. Indiana Dunes Trail 9 & 10 Loop
Distance: 4 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain:
Location: Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana (about 1 hour from Chicago)
Why It’s Great:
Offers a unique mix of steep dunes, forested trails, wetlands, and lakeshore running
Stunning views of Lake Michigan and, on clear days, glimpses of the Chicago skyline
Part of a 15,000-acre national park: 50 miles of trails, 15 miles of sandy shoreline
Running Surface:
A mix of packed dirt and soft sand (you’ll sink in and push through in places)
Some slippery or unstable footing on dune sections, especially after rain
What to Expect:
A moderately challenging loop, alternating between shaded woodland and open beach
Expansive views of rippling water and rolling dunes
A peaceful yet invigorating trail that’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset
Racing in the Midwest
Head to the Midwest for exceptional trails and races. The Midwest 100 (Wisconsin) is a popular event for ultra athletes. For first-timers, the Blueberry Trail Run 5k (Michigan) can be walked or run at any speed.
Spectacular Southwest Trail Running
7. Rim-to-Rim: South Kaibab to North Kaibab (Grand Canyon Corridor)
Distance: 20.3 miles (point-to-point)
Elevation Gain: Over 5,000 ft ascent; over 6,000 ft descent
Location: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Why It’s Great:
A legendary section of the 800+ mile Arizona National Scenic Trail
Crosses one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders from rim to rim
Experience dramatic transitions from high desert to alpine, sheer cliffs to lush canyon floor
A silent, awe-inspiring journey through out-of-this-world geology and layered history
Running Surface:
Steep, rocky paths
Hot, dry conditions at the bottom; cooler and windier at the rims
Water availability is limited, so plan carefully
What to Expect:
A very challenging route. Perfect for experienced runners comfortable with desert heat and major elevation shifts
Early morning or shoulder-season starts are recommended
Unforgettable views, quiet solitude, and a true bucket-list experience!
8. West Rim Trail (Top-Down from Lava Point)
Distance: 16.2 miles (point-to-point)
Elevation Gain: -3,300 ft (with some climbs along the way)
Location: Zion National Park, Utah
Why It’s Great:
Run one of the Southwest’s most dramatic landscapes, flanked by near-vertical canyon walls, red-and-white rock layers, and shrubby forest zones
The top-down route from Lava Point offers expansive views, remote stretches, and a true wilderness experience. Find solitude away from the park’s main trails
Running Surface:
Rocky, uneven footing in parts
Exposed sections with little shade. Sun protection and hydration are key
Best run during cooler seasons or with an early morning starts
What to Expect:
A challenging yet unforgettable point-to-point adventure
A perfect hit of technical downhill, runnable flats, and jaw-dropping scenery
Trail Races in the Southwest
Racing highlights in the Southwest include the Mohican Trail 100 (Ohio) and the Moab Trail Running Festival (Utah), with races delving into the region’s red rock canyons.
Trail Running Out West
9. Tahoe Rim Trail: Spooner Summit to Kingsbury Grade
Distance: 12.2 miles (point-to-point)
Elevation Gain: 1,500 ft
Location: Lake Tahoe (Nevada side)
Why It’s Great:
A scenic stretch of the 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail loop
Panoramic views of Lake Tahoe’s crystalline waters, granite ridgelines, and open meadows
Cool, high-altitude air makes for an energizing run
Trail access is easy from Spooner Summit or Kingsbury Grade Trailheads
Running Surface:
Smooth, mostly packed dirt
Occasional rocky sections
At altitude (~7,000–9,000 ft), so pacing and hydration are important
Generally well-marked and maintained
What to Expect:
A moderate to challenging trail with rewarding views at every turn
Great wildflowers in summer and long sightlines of the High Sierra
10. Green Mountain via Gregory Canyon and Ranger Trail
Distance: 6.4 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Why It’s Great:
An ideal intro to running at elevation, with quiet forest sections and big summit rewards
Wildflowers in spring and summer, dense pine forest, and rocky outcrops along the way
Stunning views of the Rockies and the plains
Running Surface:
Rocky, rooty, and occasionally icy in winter
Can get slick in shoulder seasons, so tread carefully
Shaded forest floor in early sections, exposed rock near the summit
What to Expect:
Especially beautiful at sunrise, when the light hits the Front Range
A rugged, forested peak just outside Boulder that’s easy to access but still delivers a mountain-worthy challenge. Leave the city behind and run above it all!
Western Trail Races
Iconic events like California’s Western States 100 and the Broken Arrow Skyrace draw elite athletes and passionate mountain runners from around the world, offering both challenge and inspiration to boot.
US Trail Running - FAQs
Still wondering where to run in the USA? Find the answers to some frequently asked questions.
What is the best state for trail running? Colorado has a huge trail network, high elevations, alpine scenery and a strong running culture. For these reasons, it’s arguably the best state for trail running in the US. But California is also a top destination for year-round accessible trails and bucket-list tracks, like the Tahoe Rim Trail.
What defines a trail run? Trail runs are routes created by nature. This means they include various terrains, from grass and mud to gravel and loose rocks.
Why do people do trail running? Often called the "runner's high," one key benefit of trail running is the endorphin rush. As you move, the brain releases endorphins (natural chemicals that help melt away stress and fatigue), leaving you feeling clear-headed, calm, and maybe even a little euphoric.
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