Walnut Creek, California

Looking for the best running in Walnut Creek? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Walnut Creek. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Running Spots in and near Walnut Creek

  • San Mateo County, California

    Sawyer Camp Trail

    5.0
    11.61 mi / 1152 ft gain
    The Sawyer Camp Trail is a popular paved trail that stretches alongside the Crystal Springs Reservoir all the way to Hillcrest Blvd. The sixth mile crosses over the San Andreas Dam with nice views of San Andreas Lake. There are markers every half mile which makes timing and tracking your run eas...
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  • Napa, California

    Westwood Hills Park Loop

    3.8
    2.12 mi / 476 ft gain
    This park can get a little crowded on weekends, so best to go early if possible. In terms of parking, there's a lot at the trailhead, but also plenty of available street parking.  The loop can be broken up in a various ways as there are several offshoots from the main trailhead/trail leaving fro...
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  • Pacifica, California

    Mori Point Loop

    4.8
    2.54 mi / 276 ft gain
    Start at the parking lots close to the pier, where bathrooms are also available. Walk along the pier to watch the sunset as it begins. Next, walk along Sharp Park Beach to discover the plethora of wild flowers and friendly locals always ready to guide you on your walk. Take the stairs up to the...
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  • Novato, California

    North Levee Trail

    5.0
    3.78 mi / 157 ft gain
    North Levee Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Novato, California.
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  • Stinson Beach, California

    Dipsea Trail to Steep Ravine Trail Loop from Stinson

    5.0
    5.99 mi / 1568 ft gain
    Dipsea Trail to Steep Ravine Trail Loop from Stinson is a loop trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Stinson Beach, California.
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  • Stinson Beach, California

    Matt Davis-Coastal Trail Loop

    4.7
    6 mi / 2231 ft gain
    This hike is an alternative to the famous Matt Davis to Steep Ravine Loop. The hike starts at Stinson Beach, just behind the fire Station. I recommend parking at the Beach parking lot. The Matt Davis trail is one of the best constructed trails I have ever seen. After 2.2 miles, turn left on the ...
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  • Pacifica, California

    Montara Mountain Trail

    5.0
    6.77 mi / 1900 ft gain
    Montara Mountain Trail is a loop trail that takes you through a forest out to ocean views at the top of Montara Mountain. This hike located near Pacifica, California. and can be accessed from Highway 1 as well. If you're looking to do a similar loop hike from the coast, consider Montara Mountain ...
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  • Pacifica, California

    Brooks Falls Loop

    4.0
    2.26 mi / 781 ft gain
    Brooks Falls Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Pacifica, California.
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  • Redwood City, California

    Cordilleras & Dusty-Footed Woodrat Loop

    3.7
    3.83 mi / 676 ft gain
    Getting there: exit Highway 280 at Edgewood Road, travel .75 miles east, turn left on Crestview Drive, then immediately left again on Edmonds Road. Once parked, there are several different path options through the park. All of them connect in a large loop, and return to the parking lot. The Cord...
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  • Redwood City, California

    Hassler Loop Trail

    4.0
    1.48 mi / 289 ft gain
    Experience the natural beauty of the San Francisco Peninsula on the scenic Hassler Loop Trail, a 1.5-mile moderately challenging hiking trail nestled in Redwood City's Emerald Hills neighborhood. This beloved local trail offers hikers, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers a perfect blend...
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  • Emerald Hills, California

    Edgewood Loop

    4.0
    3.29 mi / 607 ft gain
    Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve rests in San Mateo County, California. The sweeping hillsides exemplify the true native flora of California, as the foundation of rock and soil is poor in nutrients. Only a few specialized native plants are adapted to live here--don't miss the unique wildflower ...
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  • Emerald Hills, California

    Sylvan Loop Trail

    2.53 mi / 522 ft gain
    Sylvan Loop Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Redwood City, California.
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  • Redwood City, California

    Stulsaft Park Loop

    4.0
    0.91 mi / 98 ft gain
    Stulsaft Park Loop in Redwood City, California, is a scenic and family-friendly 0.9-mile loop trail, ideal for hiking, walking, and running. This is a relatively easy stroll with only 98 feet of elevation gain and is accessible for people of all fitness levels. This trail is also particularly pop...
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  • Napa, California

    Alston Park Loop Trail

    5.0
    2.76 mi / 184 ft gain
    Alston Park Loop Trail, located in Napa, California, is a 2.76-mile loop trail that offers a moderate level of difficulty for hikers. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running and is accessible year-round. The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it suitable for ...
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  • San Jose, California

    Alviso Slough Loop

    3.0
    8.76 mi / 256 ft gain
    This tranquil 20.6 acre park is open year round from 8am to sunset. It’s the gateway to the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It is filled with boardwalks, trails, and all kinds of wildlife. I went here with the sole intent of catching a pretty sunset after a long week.  I g...
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  • Sonoma, California

    Grape Stomp and You-Walk Miwok Loop

    5.0
    2.17 mi / 463 ft gain
    Explore the beauty of Sonoma, California, on the Grape Stomp and You-Walk Miwok Loop, a breathtaking hiking trail offering a mix of rolling vineyards, oak woodlands, and stunning valley views. This moderate loop is perfect for nature lovers, trail runners, and photographers seeking an immersive o...
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