286
runners
22
runs
Jogging around Pleasant Hill offers access to a network of trails and parks within the city and connecting to broader regional open spaces. The terrain features a mix of paved paths, well-maintained park trails, and natural surface routes through hills and open spaces. Notable natural features include scenic viewpoints, lush greenery, and areas with redwood and oak trees. The region provides varied elevation gains, from gentle gradients along canal trails to more challenging ascents in open space parks, catering to…
Last updated: June 1, 2026
44
runners
21.7km
02:14
50m
50m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
39
runners
37.5km
03:55
210m
210m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
30
runners
16.5km
01:43
80m
80m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
runners
11.8km
01:14
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Pleasant Hill
A small Asian-style garden alongside the Des Moines River, the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens features pagodas, stone sculptures, small ponds, waterfalls, and picturesque bridges.
1
0
The Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge is a car-free bridge that gives you the chance to enjoy a pleasant ride or walk across the Des Moines River—even at night, thanks to its good lighting.
1
0
This sandy beach at Gray’s Lake is a great spot to pause during or after your hike. Dip your feet in the water, relax on the sand, or even have a quick picnic before finishing the loop around the lake.
0
0
The Principal Riverwalk is a smooth, scenic pathway along the Des Moines River, perfect if you're looking to explore downtown. Its well-paved paths and pedestrian bridges connect key districts, making it an excellent route for both casual spins and fast-paced rides. The city views and riverside breeze make it a great place to stretch your legs on two wheels.
0
0
Greenwood Park Lagoon is a small, 2.3-acre pond within Greenwood Park and was one of the first urban wetland projects in the country. Adjacent to this historic pond is a large outdoor amphitheater that is a popular spot to rest and relax while exploring the area.
0
0
Water Works Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and spans 1,500 acres. It is managed by Water Works, a publicly owned municipal water utility serving the greater Des Moines metropolitan area. It ranks among the largest urban parks in the United States, features a beer garden, and is dog-friendly.
0
0
As you make your way over the bridge you will catch views of the Raccoon River, a tributary of the Des Moines River. Stretching over 30.8 miles, this river winds through an area of intense cultivation, including croplands and livestock farming. Since the 19th century, the Des Moines metropolitan area has relied on this river for drinking water, although it faced challenges during the Great Flood of 1993.
0
0
Greenwood Park Lagoon is a small, 2.3-acre pond within Greenwood Park.
0
0
Komoot offers a diverse selection of over 20 running routes in the Pleasant Hill area. These include a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging trails, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
Jogging routes in Pleasant Hill feature a varied terrain. You'll find paved paths, such as sections of the Contra Costa Canal Trail, well-maintained park trails within places like Pleasant Hill Park, and natural surface routes through hills and open spaces like Dinosaur Hill Open Space. This mix provides options from gentle gradients to more challenging ascents.
Yes, Pleasant Hill offers several parks with well-maintained trails suitable for families. Pleasant Hill Park, for instance, provides a serene environment with diverse landscapes and amenities like playgrounds, making it ideal for a casual family run or stroll. The city's commitment to its parks ensures many accessible options.
Many parks and trails in Pleasant Hill are dog-friendly. Paso Nogal Park is a notable option, featuring 63 acres of hiking trails and a dedicated 2.5-acre public dog park, perfect for exercising with your canine companion. Always check local regulations for specific leash requirements.
Pleasant Hill boasts several scenic spots. Dinosaur Hill Open Space offers commanding views of Pleasant Hill, Mount Diablo, and the Diablo Valley. You can also find peaceful settings with redwood and oak trees in places like Chilpancingo Park. For more expansive views, the nearby Briones Regional Park provides panoramic vistas of Mount Diablo and the Diablo Valley.
Yes, for those seeking longer distances, the Contra Costa Canal Trail offers extensive paved sections that connect through Pleasant Hill and neighboring cities, providing opportunities for extended runs. Additionally, nearby Briones Regional Park has many miles of trails, including connections like the Lafayette Ridge Trailhead to Briones Crest Trail, suitable for longer, more challenging runs.
Pleasant Hill's mild climate allows for year-round enjoyment of its outdoor spaces. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures for running, with lush greenery. Even in summer, early mornings or late evenings are comfortable, and the city's parks provide ample shade. Winters are generally mild, making it possible to run throughout the year.
Yes, for runners looking for a challenge, open space parks like Dinosaur Hill Open Space and the broader trails within Briones Regional Park offer more significant elevation gains. These natural surface routes provide a more strenuous workout compared to the flatter canal trails.
For an easy and accessible run, Pleasant Hill Park offers well-maintained, relatively flat trails amidst lush greenery. The Contra Costa Canal Trail also provides long stretches of paved, gentle paths, perfect for a relaxed jog or a beginner runner.
The komoot community frequently praises Pleasant Hill's varied terrain and extensive parkland. Runners appreciate the mix of paved paths, well-maintained park trails, and natural surface routes, as well as the scenic viewpoints and peaceful environments found throughout the area. Over 170 runners have used komoot to explore these diverse routes.
Yes, many of Pleasant Hill's parks and trail systems offer loop configurations, allowing you to start and end your run in the same location. For example, within Pleasant Hill Park, you can find various loops. The broader trail networks, including those connecting to the Contra Costa Canal Trail, can also be combined to create custom loop routes.
While running in Pleasant Hill, you'll encounter various natural and community landmarks. The redeveloped downtown area often connects with trails, and parks like Rodgers-Smith Park offer community amenities. For specific points of interest, consider exploring areas near the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge or the Principal Riverwalk, which are part of broader trail systems.


Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.