7 Best Places to Run in Atlanta (Chosen by Running Experts)

Looking for the best running routes in Atlanta? Whether you’re training for your next race or just enjoying the mental reset of a solo jog, Atlanta is packed with a ton of runner-friendly paths to explore. While it’s easy to always run your same route each day, do yourself a favor and spruce up this training cycle by trying out each of these running spots in and around Atlanta.

As a physical therapy clinic that specializes in treating runners, we work with athletes training all over the city. From paved trails and park loops to riverside runs and hill repeats, here are 7 of the top places to run in and around Atlanta. Grab your shoes. Grab a friend. Time to test them out and choose your new favorite running spot!

1. The BeltLine

Distance: 22 mile loop (soon to be expanded)
Surface: Paved, multi-use trail
Location: Entrances all around Atlanta
Best for: Long runs, midweek mileage, recovery jogs

The Beltline runs through the heart of Atlanta so it is so much more than just a place to run. This iconic urban trail connects over 45 neighborhoods with it’s various offshoots and connections. It’s flat, scenic and lively which is great for runners who thrive on community energy. It’s the perfect spot to meet up with a group of friends for a run then follow it up with a stop at one of the many restaurants, coffee shops or breweries along the path.

Runner tip: Go early on weekends to beat the crowds.

2. Piedmont Park

Distance: ~4 miles
Surface: Paved & gravel trails
Location: Midtown
Best for: Intervals, hill sprints, skyline views

Piedmont Park is one of Atlanta’s most popular running destinations. You can loop the Active Oval for speed work, run rolling hills in the meadow or log easy miles through shady paths. A major perk of running here is that the park connects to the BeltLine which makes it easy to add on distance.

Runner tip: Perfect for getting in a track workout or distance intervals.

3. Cochran Shoals Trail (Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area)

Distance: ~3 miles (flat) plus trail offshoots
Surface: Packed dirt & gravel
Location: Northside / I-285
Best for: Soft surface long runs, tempo runs, injury recovery

Cochran Shoals is a runner’s favorite for injury prevention thanks to its flat, forgiving dirt surface. The out-and-back trail follows the Chattahoochee River, with gentle shade and minimal elevation making it ideal for steady-state runs or comeback miles. There are several detours off the main path that allow for adding some trail run miles for even more variety. Another common addition is running up and down Columns Drive (right next to one entrance) which can add up to 5 miles to your run.

Physical therapy pro tip: Runners recovering from injury often benefit from this softer terrain.

4. Chastain Park Trail

Distance: ~3-mile loop
Surface: Mostly paved
Location: Buckhead
Best for: Moderate to intense hills

The Chastain Park loop is tucked in a residential neighborhood with just enough rolling elevation to challenge your legs. It’s peaceful, well-maintained and offers restroom access and ample parking. You can branch off into the many neighborhoods to add on mileage while giving yourself a break from the hilly path. Running this trail gives you plenty to look at during your run as you pass a golf course, baseball fields, a horse farm and more.

Runner tip: Make sure you run with proper form downhill to avoid overuse/impact injuries.

5. Westside Reservoir Park

Distance: ~2.5 miles of paved trail
Surface: Concrete paths
Location: West Midtown
Best for: Hill repeats, scenic views, long run variety

This newer park features wide trails, water views and one of the best hill training spots in the city. It’s ideal for runners prepping for hilly races like the Peachtree Road Race or other trail events. This trail also connects to the Westside Beltline which gives you the chance to add on mileage if you need.

Runner tip: Go at sunset for unbeatable skyline views.

6. Riverside Park in Roswell

Distance: 5+ miles connected through Roswell Riverwalk
Surface: Concrete & boardwalk
Location: Roswell
Best for: Suburban long runs, family-friendly outings, tempo efforts

Riverside Park connects to the scenic Roswell Riverwalk Trail offering a serene, shaded path along the Chattahoochee River. It’s a hidden gem for runners looking to escape the city and still enjoy wide, well-kept trails. You have the option to go out in two different directions from the park: one goes towards shaded gravel trails past neighborhoods while the other leads down a paved path towards the boardwalk. Between both directions, you can easily run close to 13 miles which is perfect training for the annual Alien 13.1 Half Marathon race hosted here in the fall.

Runner tip: Start from the park and extend your run to Azalea Drive for a longer out-and-back.

7. Silver Comet Trail

Distance: 60+ miles
Surface: Paved rail trail
Location: Smyrna westward
Best for: Marathon training, uninterrupted long runs, bike-run workouts

A flat, long-distance paradise for Atlanta runners. The Silver Comet is great for zone 2 long runs or race-specific workouts. It’s quiet, well-maintained, and extends all the way to the Alabama border! It can get crowded on weekends and nice weather days so go early to avoid having to navigate through bikers and strollers.

Runner tip: Bring water and fuel! Bathroom and refill stops get sparse the farther out you go.

Are You Running Strong or Running Into Issues?

No matter where you run, how you run matters! If you’re struggling with:

• Recurring pain or tightness

• Overuse injuries like IT band syndrome or plantar fasciitis

• Feeling “off” in your stride or balance

...you may benefit from a 3D running gait analysis or a customized strength plan built for runners. Our clinic helps runners like you stay pain-free, run faster and prevent injury!

Final Thoughts

Atlanta offers some of the best urban and suburban running in the Southeast. From flat river trails to skyline views and hidden neighborhood loops, there’s something for every kind of runner.

Don’t let pain or poor form limit your progress. If you’re logging miles on these trails but feeling stuck, injured or unsure what’s holding you back, let’s fix it together. Book a free consultation call with us to get you back on the right track!