Jacksonville has miles of waterfront paths, shaded trail systems, and beach routes that make it one of Florida's best cities for running year-round. Here are the top spots locals actually use.
Medical disclaimer: The training information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider or sports medicine professional before beginning any new training program, particularly if you have a pre-existing health condition, injury history, or have been inactive for an extended period.
Jacksonville is a runner's city. With over 840 square miles of land, 22 miles of Atlantic coastline, and a network of trails and waterfront paths winding through its neighborhoods, it offers more variety than almost any other Florida metro. Here are the best places to run in Jacksonville — the spots that local runners return to week after week.
Riverside and Avondale
The Riverside neighborhood is Jacksonville's most beloved running district. The streets are lined with historic bungalows and oak trees, the terrain is gently rolling, and there is always another runner out no matter what time of day. The route along the St. Johns River — running the riverwalk past Intuition Ale Works and along the waterfront — is a Jacksonville classic. Many runners loop through neighboring Avondale for added mileage and variety. The area is also home to the Riverside 5K and several First Place Sports training groups.
The Emerald Trail
The Emerald Trail is Jacksonville's most ambitious urban trail project — a planned 30-mile loop connecting parks, neighborhoods, and the riverfront through the heart of the city. Sections are open and actively used by runners, cyclists, and walkers. Running the completed segments gives you a feel for Jacksonville from the ground up, passing through urban greenways and connecting some of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. As more of the trail opens, it will become one of the best long-run routes in Northeast Florida.
Jacksonville Beach
The beach is the most obvious and most satisfying place to run in Jacksonville. The wide, hard-packed sand along Jacksonville Beach is ideal for barefoot running or easy miles with ocean views. Most runners head out early morning — sunrise on the Atlantic coast is one of Jacksonville's genuinely special things. The beach route is flat, the salt air is energizing, and the turnaround is wherever you decide it is. Several Jacksonville running events use the beach as their backdrop, including the Kilwins Ice Cream Run and Run Santa Run.
Ed Austin Regional Park
Ed Austin Regional Park in the Southside offers one of Jacksonville's best multi-use trail networks — a mix of paved and natural surface paths winding through forest and open fields. It is far enough from the city center to feel like a true escape, but accessible enough for a weekday morning run. The park's trail system connects to other greenways in the area, making it a popular choice for runners who want something longer and more varied than a neighborhood out-and-back.
Fleming Island and the Greenway System
For runners in the Orange Park and Fleming Island areas, the Clay County greenway system offers miles of paved multi-use trails through suburban and wooded corridors. The Fleming Island loop is a local favorite — flat, well-maintained, and quiet enough on weekday mornings to feel like you have it to yourself. It connects to broader trail networks that can take you well beyond the immediate neighborhood.
San Marco and the Southbank Riverwalk
The Southbank Riverwalk runs along the south side of the St. Johns River with direct views of the downtown Jacksonville skyline. The paved path stretches for over a mile and connects to the San Marco neighborhood — one of Jacksonville's most charming and runner-friendly areas. The Southbank is where many downtown runners do their easy morning miles, and it connects to the Main Street Bridge for those who want to cross the river and add a Hart Bridge simulation to their route.
Mandarin
The Mandarin area along the south side of the St. Johns River offers some of Jacksonville's most scenic road running. Tree-lined streets, river views, and a quiet, residential character make it a favorite for long runs away from traffic. The Mandarin race — a local running event with deep roots in the community — calls this area home for good reason.
Ready to race? Browse all upcoming Jacksonville running events or explore the full Jacksonville running guide on Run Florida Run.