If you enjoy trail running in California, Long Beach is a great spot to do it. There are several excellent running trails in Long Beach, as well as a ton of fantastic sights to make the landscape enjoyable. To help you decide which trails to visit, here are the best 10 running trails in Long Beach, CA.
Running Trails in Long Beach, CA
Running trails in Long Beach are stunning; however, no two running trails are the same. Each running trail has distinct characteristics like trail length, opening times, and difficulty level. This article will highlight things you need to know about running trails in Long Beach.
Waterfront Run
General description
The Waterfront Run is a beautiful multi-use path that connects Long Beach’s Belmont Shore area to the end of the breakwater across Island Grissom at the Long Beach Coastal Marina. The trail offers easy access to the Pacific Ocean and the city’s well-known Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier and runs beside a white sand beach for almost the entire course of its route.
There is plenty of space for trail users of all kinds on the 17-foot-wide paved trail, which has dedicated 6-foot-wide bicycle lanes and a 5-foot-wide walking lane. As you might expect, the vistas from the route are breathtaking. In addition to more classically gorgeous images of the delta of the San Gabriel River and the Palos Verdes in the distance, you can see cranes from the container port, oil islands, and ships docked in the outer harbor.
Level of difficulty
Easy
Length
7.5 miles
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 16,890
Average run (6mph): 12,540
Opening time
Open year-round
Getting there
Official website
https://www.visitlongbeach.com/neighborhoods/downtown-waterfront/
Elevation gain
47 m
Route type
One way
Map of the trail
Amenities
Easy to park
Benches along the way
Other activities/ features
Walking on the beach
Playing volleyball
Visiting the Aquarium of the Pacific
Opportunities for scenic views
The Lion lighthouse
Long Beach Marina (Los Angeles River meets the ocean there)
Nice views on the ocean and boats
Terrain/ Surface
Mostly paved
Weather Forecast
Long Beach Downtown and Marina
General description
This 5-mile trail in downtown Long Beach is lovely and features a lagoon, a couple of fantastic parks, and a circle around the harbor. If you’re staying close to the Convention Center or downtown, it’s a wonderful choice.
The Hyatt Hotel, next to the Convention Center, is a good starting point for exploring this Long Beach running trail. From there, explorers may complete a 0.8-mile circle around Rainbow Lagoon Park’s walkways. From this point, you can take the Convention Center Walkway, a multipurpose route, eastbound, over Ocean Boulevard, to Promenade Square. This pleasant route passes through a neighborhood with stores and eateries.
If you would like to continue your exploration, you may turn left onto one of the side streets downtown and travel 0.7 miles to Shoreline Dr. From there, you can choose between walking through Cesar Chavez Park or along the bike routes across the Los Angeles River.
Level of difficulty
Easy
Length
5.3 miles
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 11,936
Average run (6mph): 8,862
Opening time
Open year-round
Getting there
Official website
https://www.visitlongbeach.com/neighborhoods/downtown-waterfront/
Elevation gain
50 m
Route type
Loop
Map of the trail
Amenities
Easy to park
Other activities/ features
Walking
Exploring parks, the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Shark Lagoon and the Jellyfish Touch Tank
Opportunities for scenic views
The Lion lighthouse
Pleasant parks
Relaxing views on the lagoon and marina
Weather Forecast
Wrigley Greenbelt
General description
The Wrigley Greenbelt is a fantastic 2-mile running trail in Long Beach. It is typically considered an easy course. Although walking, cycling and horseback riding are famous on this path, I found that there are still moments of the day when it is pretty empty. The paved path and bike routes on this running trail makes it one of the best trails. The route is lovely to explore anytime and is open all year.
Level of difficulty
Easy
Length
2 miles
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 4,504
Average run (6mph): 3,344
Opening time
Please check the official website
Getting there
Official website
https://www.longbeach.gov/park/park-and-facilities/directory/wrigley-greenbelt/
Route type
Out and back
Map of the trail
Amenities
Horse path, walking and bicycle riding trails
Other activities/ features
Walking, cycling, horseriding
Opportunities for scenic views
Peaceful, with a bit of nature: Ice plants, trees, hawks, American white pelicans, rabbits…
Beautiful sunsets
Relaxing views on the riverbed
Weather Forecast
California State University
General description
The California State University running trail is a trail surface with beautiful views. This easy course has an elevation rise of around 0 feet. For those looking to get outside and explore Long Beach, this running trail will increase accessibility to the region.
The trail creates a lovely multi-terrain circle around campus by going along George Allen Field, Carpenter Performing Arts Center, Atherton St, Earl Warren Dr, Beach Dr and Deukmejian Way.
Level of difficulty
Easy
Length
1.9 mile
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 4,279
Average run (6mph): 3,177
Opening time
Open year-round
Getting there
Elevation gain
0 m
Route type
Loop
Map of the trail
Amenities
Several parking lots in the area
Other activities/ features
Walking, inline skating
Opportunities for scenic views
Opportunity to run along George Allen Field, which is home to Long Beach State Women’s Soccer
Weather Forecast
Signal Hill Trail
General description
Signal Hill is one of the best running trails in Long Beach for its great panoramic views of Catalina Island, Orange County and downtown LA.
It takes 42 minutes on average to accomplish what is typically considered an easy journey. Since jogging, walking, and hiking are popular activities here, you can run across other individuals while exploring. The route is lovely to explore anytime and is open all year. I particularly enjoyed the wonderful sunset. It is really worth running there in the evening!
Level of difficulty
Easy
Length
1.7 mile
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 3,828
Average run (6mph): 2,842
Estimated duration
42 min
Opening time
Open year-round
Getting there
Official website
https://www.cityofsignalhill.org/588/Walkways-and-Trails
Elevation gain
63 m
Route type
Loop
Map of the trail
Amenities
Kid and wheelchair friendly
Dogs allowed on leash
Parking lot
Benches and picnic tables
Other activities/ features
Walking, hiking, exploring
Opportunities for scenic views
Great panoramic views of Catalina Island, Orange County and downtown LA
Great place for sunset or sunrise
Terrain/ Surface
Paved and smooth sidewalk, 4 feet wide minimum
Some dirt around the upper part of the trail
Weather Forecast
Some More Running Trails in Long Beach CA
Dominguez Gap Wetlands Trail
General description
The Dominguez Gap Wetlands Trail is a short hike that runs beside the Los Angeles River in Long Beach, California. The trail’s popularity has increased over time, and there have been efforts to extend it so that more people may use the well-lit path for biking, horseback riding, and running. The easy and enjoyable path is open all year and provides tranquil and picturesque views close to the city. On average, this 2.2-mile Long Beach trail takes 40 minutes to complete. Dogs are permitted, but they must be leashed.
Level of difficulty
Easy
Length
2.2 miles
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 4,954
Average run (6mph): 3,678
Estimated duration
40 min
Opening time
Open year-round
Getting there
Official website
http://dpw.lacounty.gov/wmd/documents/DominguezGap_article.cfm
Elevation gain
15 m
Route type
Loop
Map of the trail
Amenities
Plenty of parking
Other activities/ features
Walking, wildlife watching
Opportunities for scenic views
Beautiful vegetation: wild flowers, sage, cottonwood trees…
Wonderful wildlife: rabbits, turtles, squirrels, coyotes, herons, ducks, mallards, cranes, sea birds, butterflies…
Pretty view on the river
Terrain/ Surface
Paved, dirt
Weather Forecast
Heartwell Park Trail
General description
The Heartwell Park Trail is often considered a simple walk, taking about 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete. Despite the fact that this is a well-liked route for birding, jogging, and walking, you may still find some peace and quiet there at slower times of the day.
This route is fantastic for a pleasant dog stroll, within a scenic landscaped park of 122.5 acres. There are several shaded spots, as well as some cute tiny natural animals like birds, squirrels, and ducks. I particularly appreciated the shaded picnic areas and the pond. And street parking is easily available off the road. Else, there is a parking lot off Carson and Bellflower.
Level of difficulty
Easy
Length
5 miles
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 11,260
Average run (6mph): 8,360
Estimated duration
1 h 28 min
Opening time
Open year-round
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 10 – 4pm
Saturday: 12 – 4pm
Sunday: Closed
Getting there
Official website
https://www.longbeach.gov/park/park-and-facilities/directory/heartwell-park/
Elevation gain
15 m
Route type
Out and back
Map of the trail
Amenities
Street parking off the road, or parking lot off Carson and Bellflower
Shaded picnic areas
Playground for kids
Restrooms
Community Center
Courts and fields
Other activities/ features
Baseball, Basketball, Roller Hockey, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball
Opportunities for scenic views
Scenic landscaped park of 122.5 acres, with a fishing pond
Terrain/ Surface
Paved
Weather Forecast
El Dorado Park Nature Trail
General description
This running trail in Long Beach travels through a housing neighborhood and it is surrounded with beautiful street views. This running trail typically takes 43 minutes to complete. The route is smooth and simple to navigate. This track allows for skating as well as running, walking, and jogging. It’s ideal for both novice and experienced runners.
Because this is a popular spot for birding, jogging, and strolling, you’ll undoubtedly come across other folks visiting. The route is lovely to explore anytime and is open all year. The ponds are my favorite feature, with all the adorable tiny turtles lounging in the water. Be cautious about leaving belongings in your car, as hijackers and pickpockets may wander around.
Level of difficulty
Easy
Length
2.3 miles
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 5,180
Average run (6mph): 3,846
Estimated duration
43 min
Opening time
Open year-round
Regional park hours:
March 1st – October 31st: 7:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.
November 1st – February 29th: 7:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Getting there
Official website
https://www.longbeach.gov/park/park-and-facilities/directory/el-dorado-east-regional-park/
Elevation gain
18 m
Route type
Loop
Map of the trail
Amenities
Parking lot.
Cash and Credit Cards accepted for the vehicle entrance fees
Pedestrians and bicyclists don’t have to pay these fees
Stroller, kid and wheelchair friendly
Lots of seatings throughout the trail
Bathroom in the middle of the trail
Other activities/ features
Walking, wildlife watching
Opportunities for scenic views
Beautiful scenery with lots of ducks, turtles, squirrels and birds
Ponds, variety of wildflower, perfect escape into nature with lots of shade
Terrain/ Surface
Paved concrete, dirt, roots, wooden bridge with railings. 4 feet wide minimum
Weather Forecast
Bud Turner Trail
General description
The Bud Turner Trail in Orange County lets you experience hiking trail in a relaxed lifestyle. The route, which is suited for all forms of trail usage and specially designed for equestrian use, is located in a peaceful area of the running trails in Long Beach. The Juanita Cooke Greenbelt, which connects the route to other city areas, is accessible from there.
The route heads southwest after skirting the lake’s southern side and starting at the northern end of Laguna Lake Park. This serene, grassy lakeside park is a beautiful location for a picnic or fishing practice. Additionally, it serves as the junction of the Juanita Cooke Greenbelt and the Bud Turner Trail. A riding arena sits immediately after the lake; don’t be shocked to see locals riding horses here, as this is a well-known location.
The lovely area you walk through after leaving the ring is your last stop before arriving at North Euclid Street. The remaining distance of the path is along this busy road. I would particularly recommend to be careful since you must navigate several significant crossroads, including the one at West Bastanchury Road.
Level of difficulty
Easy
Length
3.7 miles
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 8,332
Average run (6mph): 6,186
Opening time
Open year-round
Getting there
Official website
https://www.cityoffullerton.com/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/116/624
Route type
Out and back
Map of the trail
Amenities
Convenient parking area along the street
Other activities/ features
Walking, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, picnic
Opportunities for scenic views
Peaceful nature along the lake
Terrain/ Surface
Dirt, woodchips
Weather Forecast
Dana Point Headlands Trail
General description
Visit the Dana Point Headlands’ trail network to explore this beautiful coastal region of Long Beach. The network consists of paved shared-use roads and walking trails with a natural surface. You may enjoy the stunning ocean views and the salty air from a number of viewpoints. The route also has a unique connection to a funicular on Strands Beach. The slanted elevator brings guests from the cliff to the beach and vice versa for free.
It takes an average of 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete this trek, which is often regarded as fairly tricky. This route is well-liked for hiking and strolling. Dogs are not permitted on this route, so you must leave your puppies at home.
Level of difficulty
Moderate
Length
3 miles
Number of steps
Average walk (3mph): 6,756
Average run (6mph): 5,016
Estimated duration
1 h 16 min
Opening time
The opening hours may vary. Please refer to the official website.
Getting there
Official website
Elevation gain
138 m
Route type
Loop
Map of the trail
Amenities
Plentiful street parking
Restroom
Drinking fountains
Kid-friendly
Other activities/ features
Walking
Opportunities for scenic views
Palm-lined walkway
Good views of coast and ocean
Beautiful neighborhoods with dream houses
Wildlife
Cliff views with ocean breezes
Terrain/ Surface
Asphalt, Concrete, Dirt, Partially paved, Stairs
Weather Forecast
Conclusion
- Waterfront run is an easy one way path located 3 minutes from Long Beach City center. It offers volleyball playing locations, a lighthouse, and a visit to the Pacific aquarium.
- Long Beach Downtown and Marina is an easy loop located 3 minutes from Long Beach City center. It offers pleasant parks and a visit to the Pacific aquarium.
- Wrigley Greenbelt is an easy out and back route 10 minutes from Long Beach City center. It offers horse paths and bicycle riding trails.
- California State University is an easy loop located 11 minutes from Long Beach City center. It offers inline skating and the opportunity to run along George Allen Field, which is home to Long Beach State Women’s Soccer.
- Signal Hill Trail is an easy loop located 13 minutes from Long Beach City center. It usually takes about 42 minutes to complete this trail, and it also offers hiking and great views of Catalina Island, Orange County, and downtown LA.
- Dominguez Gap Wetlands Trail is an easy loop located 13 minutes from Long Beach City center. It usually takes about 40 minutes to complete this trail, and it also offers wildlife watching and beautiful vegetation.
- Heartwell Park Trail is an easy out and back route located 16 minutes from Long Beach City center. It usually takes about 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete this trail. It also offers courts and fields and a playground for kids.
- El Dorado Park Nature Trail is an easy loop 17 minutes from Long Beach City center. It usually takes about 43 minutes to complete this trail, and it also offers wildlife watching and beautiful scenery.
- Bud Turner Trail is an easy out and back route located 38 minutes from Long Beach City center. It offers mountain biking, horse riding, and fishing. This is my favorite trail because of the peaceful nature along the lake.
- Dana Point Headlands Trail is an easy loop located 1 hour and 15 minutes from Long Beach City center. It usually takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete this trail. It also offers good coast views, wildlife, and beautiful neighborhoods.
