5 Best Cities to go Running in the U.S.

These are the best cities in the U.S to go running in

5 Best Cities to go Running in the U.S.

You don't have to give up your running schedule when planning a vacation or trip. In fact, there are many destination cities that are perfect for the routine runner. From planned races running groups to maintained parks and trails, these U.S. cities are the best when it comes to running.

1. Washington, D.C. This city is perfect for those who like to run in packs. This major city has dozens of popular running groups, including the D.C. Road Runners and the Capital Striders. This city is also home to some of the best and most popular races, such as the Marine Corps Marathon and the Army Ten-Miler.

If you're looking for a great place to run, try the five-mile loop around the National Mall and monuments. If you want some scenic trails, Rock Creek Park can be the best option. Another popular running spot is the C&O Canal trail. Other runners tend to be courteous on paths and even helpful with directions. Plenty of other runners you see will also be travelers.

2. Flagstaff, Arizona. Do you want to add a little heat to your daily run? Flagstaff, Arizona is a vibrant, runner-friendly city. In fact, there are more than 50 miles of trails alone in Flagstaff. The Schultz Creek Trail and the Old Caves Crater Trail are considered two of the best trails for running.

Many travelers say the altitude aids in stamina, with the city sitting at 7,000 feet above sea level. For those that want to get more serious about running, the city is home to several running camps. Arizona Running and McMillan are two popular camps. For a true look at the city, native runners always recommend the trails of Buffalo Park, which connects to the San Francisco Peaks.

3. Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. These twin cities are considered the perfect landscape for the serious runner. This could be because the area is known for the popular Twin Cities Marathon, called the most beautiful urban marathon in the United States. These cities are even home to some of the most elite running groups, like Team USA Minnesota.

If you're a runner looking for a new place to try, check out the West River Parkway and the Chain of Lakes. If winter has come and the snow is a deterrent, you can check out the Metrodome indoor track.

4. San Francisco, California. Running competitions have found a great home in this eclectic city. San Francisco is a great destination for those with a competitive streak. You will find numerous local teams training around the city on a regular basis. This city is also home to some of the best races, like the Dipsea Race and the Bay to Breakers.

Some of the best places to run are Golden Gate Park, Crissy Field and the Presidio. Remember to wear mesh leggings in hotter cities, to prevent excess sweating and overheating.

5. Portland, Oregon. Want to get back in tune with nature while taking your daily run? Portland is a great travel destination for all those who like to see a little green as they run. In fact, the city has more than 220 miles of trails and more than 10,000 acres of greenery. You will never run out of new choices when looking for a place to run. Some of the best places to run are in Forest Park and on the Banks-Veronica State Trail.

Portland tends to be a hub for runners, with the parks and recreation department hosting the infamous $5 for 5k. This is a series of five races in five different city parks. This city is also headquarters to several major shoe manufacturers, like Nike, Adidas and KEEN.

Some cities are just built for running, with perfectly maintained trails and elaborate races. It can be hard to resist visiting a city where running is so celebrated and popular. These five cities are the best in the U.S. for running.