Last Updated on March 29, 2024
For those of you who love to go running, you will be overjoyed with the number of unique and best places to run in Orlando.
If you are new to running, you may be wondering where the best place is to start.
It is recommended to begin running on asphalt roads, like sidewalks, which are optimal for foot traffic, and trails, which are softer surfaces that provide a more cushioned impact on each step – also excellent for runners who have experienced overuse injuries.
This list features both trails and paved paths.
The great trails on this list of the best places to run in Orlando feature a spectacular variety of nice parks, local gems, scenic places, and big-name areas.
You can enjoy natural Central Florida areas and glamorous resort spots near theme parks.
And don’t worry: if you aren’t a fan of running, you will be happy to know that these are all fantastic places to walk.
Most of these trails are open from sunrise to sunset and often feature public restrooms, water fountains, and an Emergency Response Marker System.
When utilizing these trails, always follow safety guidelines, such as informing someone of your location and carrying a fully charged phone with you.
Best Places to Run in Orlando
Table of contents
Here are eleven of the best places to run in Orlando.
Cady Way Trail
Cady Way Trail is a 7.2-mile paved trail perfect for long runs. It connects Orlando and Winter Park.
The Trail Head is located on Herndon Avenue by the Orlando Fashion Square Mall, stretches north through Baldwin Park, and ends near the Orlando Magic Recreation Center on Goldenrod in Winter Park.
You can also access the trail from Cady Way Park.
Cady Way Trail Address: 821 Herndon Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Orlando Urban Trail
Orlando Urban Trail is a 3-mile trail with asphalt and concrete sections. It is an integral part of Orlando’s trail network because of its location near Downtown Orlando.
Though this trail is one of the shorter options on this list, it is packed full of urban and scenic sections, running from Lake Highland by the Mennello Folk Art Museum and the Orlando Science Center to Mead Garden.
Orlando Urban Trail Address: N Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32804
Lake Eola Park
Lake Eola Park has a short trail on a gorgeous, tree-lined 0.9-mile sidewalk that loops around Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando.
On your run, you can see the Orlando skyline, swans and ducks waddling by, and people cruising around the lake in Swan paddleboat rentals.
Lake Eola Park Address: Lake Eola Park, Orlando, FL 32801
Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort has various running trails to choose from within its resort areas. Since each resort is themed, many different scenic options are available – from golf course greens to rivers to lakes.
A great trail for nature lovers is a 3.1-mile path through the backcountry of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground in the Magic Kingdom Resort Area.
On a side note, people come from all over the world to participate in the variety of races offered at the Walt Disney World Resort.
This is clearly one of the best places to run in Orlando. Learn more from Run Disney.
Walt Disney World Address: Fort Wilderness Trail, Bay Lake, FL 32836
Lake Baldwin Trail
Lake Baldwin Trail is a 2.6-mile trail that goes around Lake Baldwin in Orlando and Winter Park. The paved path offers runners a variety of offerings from the Baldwin Park Town Center, the Baldwin Park Dog Park, and a Veteran’s Memorial Park.
The trail provides views of the lake and town center, with many shops and restaurants to check out.
Just make sure you are using the trail during daylight hours since the path around the lake does not have lights throughout the trail.
Lake Baldwin Trail Address: 1825 Lake Baldwin Ln, Orlando, FL 32814
Bill Frederick Park
Bill Frederick Park is a 183-acre park and popular fishing spot, thanks to its position along Turkey Lake, one of the best fishing lakes in Florida.
Though there is a $5 per car entry fee, it is well worth it, as there is plenty to do there.
Both paved and mulch paths loop around most of this large park, providing a combined 2.4-mile trail.
The park also has picnic tables, which are convenient if you pack lunch or snacks.
Bill Frederick Park Address: 3401 S Hiawassee Rd, Orlando, FL 32835
Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort has walking and jogging paths available at their Loews Portofino Bay Hotel area.
The path provides lovely views of the resort and waterway and connects with the Hard Rock Hotel and Universal CityWalk.
Universal Orlando Resort Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
West Orange Trail
West Orange Trail is a 22-mile paved trail and bike path that starts in Winter Garden and runs up to Apopka.
This multi-use trail accommodates runners, walkers, bicyclists, skaters, skateboarders, and even horseback riders.
If you run through the section by the Tildenville outpost, the butterfly garden is a great place to stop by.
West Orange Trail Address: W Orange Trail, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Orlando Wetlands Park
Orlando Wetlands Park is a 1650-acre man-made wetland located in Christmas. The park has different trails to explore with woods, marsh, and wildlife views.
However, if you visit this destination, beware of alligators, as they are known to hide out in the marshes.
Orlando Wetlands Park Address: 25155 Wheeler Rd, Christmas, FL 32709
Seminole Wekiva Trail
Seminole Wekiva Trail is a 14-mile trail that is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, a network of trails in Florida that equals approximately 1000 miles.
The Seminole Wekiva Trail was developed on what used to be the Orange Belt Railway, which was once the longest railroad in the country and stretches from Sanford to Wekiva Pines Boulevard.
Seminole Wekiva Trail Address: 371 San Sebastian Prado, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Rock Springs Run State Reserve
Rock Springs Run State Reserve has approximately 17 miles of trails within the reserve’s many natural environments, including pine flatwoods, swamps, oak hammocks, and of course, the spring/run river system.
This state reserve is another destination where you will need to watch out for wildlife, as many species call this area home, including sandhill cranes, gopher tortoises, and the Florida black bear.
Rock Springs Run State Reserve Address: 30601 County Rd 433, Sorrento, FL 32776
If you enjoyed this article on the best places to run in Orlando and are looking for a few other recommendations in the area, check out these suggestions:
- 7 Ways to Experience Orlando Like a Local
- Plan a Weekend Retreat North of Orlando in Seminole County
- Take a Tour Through Black Owned Businesses and Historic Sites of Orlando
- 4 Best Things to Do in the Orlando Milk DistrictSeven Reasons to Fall in Love with Winter Park
- The Top 6 Things to Do in Magnificent Maitland, Florida
- Explore the Mister Rogers Walking Tour at Rollins College
- The City of Winter Garden Launches “Living Local” Campaign