By Maggie McClurg
Hey there runners of all distances and paces (and walkers)! Are you new to the area and looking for a good safe running route? Are you tired of your normal running route and want to change it up? Luckily I’ve meet some pretty awesome people in the running community that have let me in on the best running spots around Savannah. One of my favorite parts about Savannah is that you have so many different terrains available within a 30 min drive, you can run downtown in the city, or along the beach, or even in the woods! Here’s a list of the places and routes that I think are amazing!
Daffin Park Loop
One of my favorite routes is simply running around Daffin Park. The loop is 1.5 miles long and has a rubberized trail (great for impact)! The park is super convenient for people who live in the surrounding neighborhoods, but if you don’t there is also tons of free parking. You will be running/walking alongside dog walkers, speed walkers, strollers and runners alike.
Forsyth Park Loop
Running around Forsyth park is super convenient for anyone who lives Downtown. The perimeter of Forsyth spans exactly 1 mile so it is easy to track distance. The park is busy with tourists so if you’re looking for a more quieter run spot I would avoid the park. If you do not live downtown there is free parking at the Southside of the park, but it is very limited so be prepared to have to drive around to find parking! Once you finish your run you can pop over and check out the famous Forsyth Fountain or stop and grab a snack at the Collins Quarter in Forsyth.
Whitemarsh Island Preserve
The Whitemarsh Island Preserve trails are located approximately 15 minutes from Downtown and boast over 2 miles of dirt trails. For those runners looking to take it easy on their joints and surround themselves in nature this is a great route! Immerse yourself among the beautiful Spanish-moss draped live oak trees. What I love most about these trails is that they are very shaded, perfect for those hot summer days. There is a mix of dirt trails and paved trails and there is also a ton of mountain biking trails! There’s an abundance of parking at the YMCA and some dirt parking lots along the side entrances off of Johnny Mercer Boulevard.
Rails to Trails
The McQueen Island Rails to Trails trail is officially fully re-opened! This 12 mile long trail runs along the south channel of the Savannah River and was destroyed back when hurricane Matthew hit. Make sure to bring your trail shoes, this is a dirt trail! Beautiful coastal views of the river make this trail so amazing. The only con about this trail is that it is not shaded, so in the hot summer months run earlier in the morning or later at night when the heat has cooled. There are two entry points with parking, Fort Pulaski Road entrance and the mid-point entry on U.S. 80 near Bull River. Also a little FYI this trail is not dog friendly.
Skidaway Island State Park
A personal favorite. Make the trip out to Skidaway Island and check out the State Park. There are miles and miles of trails (588 acres) that are shaded and discover areas along the marsh that you wouldn’t see otherwise. My personal favorite trail is the Big Ferry Loop! Make sure to check out the lookout tower, you’ll get the best views of the water. It is a great area to run, make sure to wear your trail shoes and r bug-spray it gets a very buggy out there! It does cost $5 to enter the park but it’s totally worth it AND you can bring your four-legged friend!
Lake Mayer Park
Lake Mayer offers a 1.7 mile loop around the lake! Super kid friendly area and is located right off the Truman Parkway. Considered an easy route this is a popular spot where you’ll find runners, walkers, bikers, people fishing and all the sorts! This trail is open year round and generally pretty busy! Also, FYI this trail is not dog friendly.
Tom Triplett Park
For all you Pooler folks this park is a great option! Miles of paved pathways span this 200 acre park. It is a very popular spot so expect it to be busy! Paved pathways allow for an easy terrain and you get to enjoy the scenic views of the pond! There is a lot of parking available. Also, FYI this trail is not dog friendly.
Oatland Island Wildlife Center Main Trail
The Oatland Island Wildlife Center has a ton of trails! If you are looking for an easier trail head out on the Main trail for a 2.1-mile loop. This trail does not have a lot of elevation gain so it’s great for an easy run. It’ll will take you through the lovely forests and wetlands of Savannah. Great trail to run if you want to experience more of Savannah’s wildlife. There is an entrance fee, per person.
Fleet Feet Run Group
The running community here is amazing and super active! If you’re looking for a fun run group, Fleet Feet Savannah hosts a couple runs a week. On Tuesday nights Run Club will meet at the Fleet Feet store on Waters Ave at 6:30 pm and do a run through the surrounding neighborhoods and Daffin Park! On Thursday nights run club meets at Service Brewing Company in Downtown Savannah at 6:30 pm and will run along the Savannah River. Nothing better then getting a good sweat in and then grabbing a nice cold beer! Both run groups offer different distances and are a ton of fun, dogs are welcome as well. Fleet Feet Pooler hosts a run on Tuesday nights at 6:30 pm at Boston Pizza in Pooler! Fleet Feet is doing a reward program for every run you join you get that much closer to a free pizza at Boston Pizza! On Saturdays Fleet Feet will also do pancake runs and other fun sponsored runs – those change monthly so make sure to follow their instagram and facebook pages to stay updated!
AllTrails App
One of my favorite running apps to use to discover new routes is AllTrails. It makes finding trails in your area super easy. It provides a description of the trail as well as reviews from people who have visited it and it even allows people to upload photos of it!
Happy Running Folks!
I hope this article is helpful, and I’d love to here from you what your favorite routes are! Feel free to send a DM at @teamcallahan and let me know!
*Please note: this is not an ad, just a local running junky here!
