Top 5 Running Trails in Springfield

Looking for a great place to run in Springfield? These five running trails are among the best in Springfield. These running routes primarily follow non-motorized sidewalks, trails, and greenways and have free parking. Distances and intensity vary among these routes, so there's a running trail for beginners as well as experienced runners. Certainly, you'll find one that suits your needs.

1. South Creek Greenway is a 3.17 mile urban run on a paved greenway trail along South Creek. The trail is mostly level and winds through residential and commercial areas. Bicyclists also share this running trail. Start your route at McDaniel Park and head east on the greenway trail to National St., then return to the point of origination, following the same route. Free parking is available at McDaniel Park.

2. Wilson's Creek National Battlefield has many running trail options. There are several miles of a paved motorized tour route in addition to pedestrian and horse trails throughout the park. The motorized route is one way and has a very low speed limit, so it's fairly safe for pedestrians. The battlefield has both hills and level areas, primarily following Wilson's Creek. View the website for more information about the trails to create your own route. This is a great place to run since the area is very natural, rural, and there are so many interesting historic features. Free parking is available in the visitor's lot.

3. MSU Campus Run is an urban 2.3 mile run around the Missouri State University campus. Although traffic is heavy at times, the route is primarily on level sidewalks. Begin at the intersection of E. Elm at S. National and run south to intersection at Grand St. Turn west on Grand to the intersection at Kimbrough. Head north on Kimbrough to E. Elm St, then turn east and end at beginning position at S. National. If you don't have a university parking pass, you may park along any side street as designated.

4. Greenway at Galloway Station is a 13.32 mile run with urban and park-like scenery on a paved greenway trail in southeast Springfield. Start at the greenways trail at historic Galloway Station, run past the iron bridge, then continue on the trail to Pershing Middle School, then return to the starting point at Galloway Station. Free parking is available at Galloway Station.

5. Springfield Conservation Nature Center has trails that were designed for hiking, but many choose to run these for a great cardiovascular workout. There are six trails of varying lengths, but all have inclines. Adjacent to Lake Springfield, the trails wind through gorgeous Ozark forests. Immediately south of the James River Freeway, you will quickly forget that you are still in town. Visit the website for more trail information. Plenty of free parking is available at the Nature Center.

For more running trail ideas, visit the MapMyRun website which has over 400 routes mapped in Springfield, or let them help you create your own route.