Best Running Routes in Chicago

Chicago is a runner's city, anchored by the spectacular Lakefront Trail that stretches for miles along Lake Michigan. Flat, scenic, and traffic-free, it's perfect for everything from easy runs to marathon-pace efforts. Add the elevated greenway of The 606 and the paths of Lincoln Park, and you have a wealth of excellent routes in a famously flat, fast running town.

The Lakefront Trail

The Lakefront Trail runs roughly 18 miles along the shore of Lake Michigan, offering flat, uninterrupted running with stunning lake and skyline views. Separate paths for runners and cyclists in many sections keep it safe and flowing. It's the heart of Chicago running — ideal for long runs, where you can pick almost any distance without stopping for traffic.

The 606 (Bloomingdale Trail)

The 606, centered on the elevated Bloomingdale Trail, is a roughly 2.7-mile car-free greenway built on a former rail line on the city's northwest side. It offers a flat, scenic run above the streets, connecting neighborhoods and parks — a great option when you want a change from the lakefront.

Lincoln Park and beyond

• Lincoln Park: paths winding past the zoo, ponds, and gardens, connecting easily to the Lakefront Trail.
• The Riverwalk: a downtown path along the Chicago River for a shorter, urban run.
• Neighborhood parks across the city offer quieter local loops.

Running the Chicago Marathon route

Chicago is home to one of the world's flattest, fastest major marathons, winding through the city's diverse neighborhoods. Even outside race day, you can run sections of the course through downtown and the neighborhoods to soak up the city. The flat terrain that makes Chicago great for PRs also makes everyday training fast and friendly.