9 of the best running spots in Birmingham

I’m an avid runner, but I understand—it can be so hard to motivate yourself to get outside and move, especially in this Alabama heat. My fingers may be crossed that Alabama will somehow cool down to fall temperatures in September. In the meantime, I’m enjoying my runs by taking in the beautiful views of Birmingham. Here are nine of my favorite spots to sweat it out—from sidewalks to dirt trails.

1. Jemison Park

Nestled in Mountain Brook, this wooded trail may be my favorite place to run in town. I love having the option of running on both dirt trails and sidewalks. Since the trail is surrounded by trees, Jemison Park is a perfect spot to run in the shade.

• Location: 2615 Mountain Brook Parkway Mountain Brook, AL 35223

2. Shades Valley Greenway

Along Lakeshore Drive, this greenway isn’t only perfect for runners, but also bikers due to its paved trail. You can also look forward to taking longer runs on this trail due to its upcoming 1.5 miles extension. It’s a convenient location for Homewood locals and a quick hop-off Highway 31.

• Location: Lakeshore Drive, Homewood, AL 35209

3. Moss Rock Preserve

If you’re looking to feel like you’re in the great outdoors without driving far, Moss Rock Preserve near Bluff Park is one of the best places to take a run. I love being able to run on dirt trails and take in the beautiful scenery. Even better, you can carb load after at Vecchia Pizzeria Mercato.

• Location: 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, AL 35226

4. Edgewood neighborhood

Is there anything better than running through the quaint neighborhood of Edgewood? With wide sidewalks, it’s easy to forget you’re running while admiring the beautiful homes in this residential area. Plus, I’m always more motivated to run when tacos and queso from Taco Mama are promised after.

5. Railroad Park

Downtown dwellers, stretch out your legs at Railroad Park. Known as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” you can admire the over 600 trees and abundance of flowers while you run the 0.75-mile jogging trail.

• Location: 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

6. Vulcan Park

If you’re looking for an iconic Birmingham spot, then Vulcan Park is the place for you. You can stop to see the Vulcan himself. If you’re more like me and heights really aren’t your thing (my legs do in fact shake while going up the Vulcan), then you can admire some of the most scenic views of downtown Birmingham while running the trails here.

• Location: 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209

7. Oak Mountain State Park

Are you looking for a challenge? Oak Mountain State Park, a 940-acre park, has dirt trails that are no easy feat. The fresh air and beautiful scenery make it worth running up these hills.

• Location: 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124

Plus, there are so many other outdoor activities you can do with friends at Oak Mountain State Park if running isn’t really your thing, such as:

• Archery
• BMX
• Boating
• Fishing
• Golfing
• Horseback riding
• Swimming

8. Hugh Kaul Trail

Part of Freshwater Land Trust’s red Rock Trail System, this newest urban trail brings you some of my downtown favorites, including:

• Avondale
• Pepper Place
• Sloss Furnaces

Catch me running to Red Cat Coffeehouse in Pepper Place for a caffeine fix.

• Location: 3501 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222

9. Red Mountain Park

The 16 miles of multi-use trails at Red Mountain Park are perfect for you to sweat it out. Once a place of active ore mines, you can discover the history of our city’s industrial origins while spending time outside at this park.

• Location: 2011 Frankfurt Dr, Birmingham, AL 35211

Did we miss your favorite place to run in Birmingham? Tag us @BhamNow on social to let us know!