1. Grapevine Lake, Texas
A favorite of runners in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Grapevine Lake boasts several trails of varying difficulty that wrap around the shore. With 8,000 acres to go around, you're sure to find a few trails off the beaten — well, running path, so to speak.
2. Palmer Park, Colorado
3. Ice Age Trail, Wisconsin
Never discount the beauty of the Upper Midwest. Ranked as one of the best trail runs in the country, Wisconsin's Ice Age Trail is nature's masterwork 12,000 years in the making and a shining example "of how continental glaciation sculpts our planet."
4. McKenzie River Trail, Oregon
25 miles through hot springs, placid pools, flourishing underbrush, and yes, ex-lava fields, the McKenzie River Trail in Eugene, Oregon is a must-see during the transitional months. One word of advice: bring a camera — you won't regret it.
5. Channel Islands, California
When National Geographic calls a trail one of the top 10 in the United States, you know the views will be jaw-dropping — and the Channel Islands are no exception. Accessible only by boat or plane, the islands also offer views of marine wildlife.
6. Appalachian Trail, Appalachia
Now this is it, the big one. Stretching 2,179 miles across 14 states, the Appalachian Trail is probably the most famous among runners. While millions hit the path every year, only a select few have gone end to end. The current record is under 48 days.
7. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
You'd be hard-pressed to find a more scenic trail than the Kalalau Trail in Kauai. Running along the Nā Pali Coast, you'll find "towering sea cliffs, waterfalls, white sandy beaches, lush tropics, and even ancient Hawaiian ruins." Umm, yes please.
8. Breakneck Ridge Trail, New York
There's a lot more to New York than the city. Less than 60 miles north of Manhattan, the Breakneck Ridge Trail is one of the most favored in the country. While it remains a popular nature destination, make sure you bring plenty of water — it's a hike!
9. Ocala National Forest, Florida
Sure, Florida attracts loads of vacationers for theme parks, but what about the state's national parks? The 360,000-acre Ocala National Forest, just 50 miles west of Daytona Beach, boasts the finest trails in the region, through lovely Florida scrub.
10. Glacier National Park, Montana
If you're up for a challenge — specifically 7,000 up above sea level — the 10-mile Siyeh Pass Trail in Montana's Glacier National Park is for you. Called the "Crown of the Continent," the park features alpine meadows, mountains, and historic chalets.
11. Indiana Dunes, Indiana
Can you believe these pictures are even from the same state? Located just off Lake Michigan, the Indiana Dunes provide breathtaking views of the shore, along with 70 miles of trails through sand dunes and rugged terrain for a truly challenging workout.