The best running trails around Walled Lake
4.5
(3)
204
runners
44
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Jogging around Walled Lake offers diverse routes through a landscape characterized by the central Walled Lake, extensive wooded paths, and former railway corridors. The region provides a mix of natural aquatic features and dedicated green spaces, including recreational areas. These trails cater to various fitness levels, from flat lake loops to more rugged terrain, making it suitable for different running preferences.
Best jogging routes around Walled Lake
- The most popular jogging route is Woodpecker Lake Outlook – Woodpecker Lake loop from Zerbo's Market & Bistro, an 8.5 miles (13.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 25 minutes to complete. This route offers consistent lake views and often features paved surfaces.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Lakeshore Park Trailhead – Novi Trail Stream loop from Twelve Oaks Mall, a moderate 7.5 miles (12.1 km) path. This route traverses Lakeshore Park, providing access to well-maintained multi-use trails and recreational amenities.
- Local runners also love the Woodpecker Lake Overlook – Woodpecker Lake loop from Walled Lake, a 12.8 miles (20.7 km) trail leading through areas around Woodpecker Lake, often completed in about 2 hours 8 minutes.
- Jogging around Walled Lake is defined by serene lake views, wooded paths, and accessible former railway corridors. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more difficult running experiences.
- The routes in Walled Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from 2 reviews. More than 100 runners have used komoot to explore Walled Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
23
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
runners
6.54km
00:43
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
runners
7.73km
00:49
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
runners
5.14km
00:33
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
runners
11.4km
01:11
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The wetlands in West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve are a key part of the preserve’s rich ecosystem. These low-lying, often seasonally flooded areas support a diverse mix of plant and animal life, including amphibians, songbirds, and wading birds. You’ll find cattails, sedges, and wetland wildflowers thriving here, along with mature hardwoods growing on slightly higher ground. Boardwalks and trails let you explore without disturbing the habitat, making it a great place for quiet walks, nature observation, or photography. The wetlands also help filter water and prevent flooding, playing an essential role in the area’s natural balance.
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The Heron Rookery Outlook is a peaceful viewpoint along the West Bloomfield Trail, a 6.8-mile path built on a former rail line. Overlooking a lush wetland, it’s a great spot to pause and watch for herons, egrets, and other wildlife. Bring binoculars if you have them—this quiet corner is perfect for birding or just soaking in the scenery. Whether you're walking, running, or biking the trail, the outlook offers a scenic break and a glimpse into the area’s natural habitat.
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Woodpecker Lake in Oakland County is a peaceful spot and a great place to ride past on the West Bloomfield Trail. This is a great spot to keep an eye out for birds and other animals as you zip past.
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You'll find both mountain biking and multiuse trails in Lakeshore Park. Take the time to read the signs and make sure you're okay with the type of trail you're getting into!
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Lakeshore Park, which is the largest park in the city, features a well-maintained mountain bike trail system. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty for both beginners and experienced riders. After you're done riding, the park also boasts a variety of recreational amenities, including a swimming beach on Walled Lake, play structures, and picnic shelters.
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West Bloomfield Woods is a beautiful pocket of woodland featuring mature oak and hickory trees with a stunning understory of white trillium and yellow trout lilies. The woodland is recognised as an Urban Wildlife Sanctuary. It is visited by over 100 bird species as well as white-tail deer, red fox, coyote, weasel, mink and salamanders. A compact gravel path will lead you straight through the preserve along West Bloomfield Trail, or you can choose to take one of the unpaved nature trails deeper inside the forestry to discover rivers, ponds and lookouts.
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The West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve is located south of Pontiac Trail in the middle of the Township, along the West Bloomfield Trail. The Preserve was the first in Michigan to receive recognition as an Urban Wildlife Sanctuary from the National Institute for Urban Wildlife. The 162 acre preserve is frequented by over 100 bird species as well as white-tail deer, red fox, coyote, weasel, mink and salamanders. Great carpets of white trillium and yellow trout lilies thrive under mature oak and hickory trees. Large black walnuts and wild dogwoods can also be found within the preserve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Walled Lake?
There are over 40 diverse running routes around Walled Lake, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. These include easy, moderate, and more challenging options.
Are there easy running routes suitable for beginners in Walled Lake?
Yes, Walled Lake offers several easy running routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the 4.8-mile "Walled Lake loop" mentioned in regional research provides an easy, flat course with consistent lake views. Overall, there are 3 easy routes available.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the jogging trails around Walled Lake?
The terrain around Walled Lake is quite varied. You'll find a mix of serene lake views, extensive wooded paths, and former railway corridors like the Michigan Airline Trail. Some routes, such as those around Woodpecker Lake, feature mostly paved surfaces, while areas like Proud Lake Recreation Area offer more rugged, natural terrain.
Can I find routes with scenic lake views in Walled Lake?
Absolutely. The Walled Lake itself is a central feature, and many routes offer consistent lake views. For example, the Woodpecker Lake Outlook – Woodpecker Lake loop from Zerbo's Market & Bistro provides picturesque scenery around Woodpecker Lake.
Are there any circular running routes available?
Yes, many of the running paths in Walled Lake are designed as loops. A popular option is the Lakeshore Park Trailhead – Novi Trail Stream loop from Twelve Oaks Mall, which takes you through Lakeshore Park.
Where can I find parking for the running trails in Walled Lake?
Many trailheads and parks in Walled Lake offer convenient parking. For example, Lakeshore Park, a major hub for multi-use trails, provides ample parking. Routes like the 754 Loop – Novi Trail Stream loop from MTB Trailhead Parking explicitly mention parking at the MTB Trailhead.
What are some notable natural features or attractions I might see while running?
While running in Walled Lake, you can encounter several natural attractions. You might pass by Woodpecker Lake, explore the West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve Wetlands, or even spot wildlife at the Heron Rookery Outlook along the West Bloomfield Trail.
Are there paved running paths in Walled Lake?
Yes, Walled Lake offers paved running paths, particularly along former railway corridors like the Michigan Airline Trail. Routes around Woodpecker Lake also often feature paved surfaces, providing a smooth experience for runners.
What do other runners say about the trails in Walled Lake?
The running routes in Walled Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 2 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, from serene lake views to wooded paths, and the well-maintained trail systems.
Are there longer running routes for experienced runners?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, Walled Lake has options. The Woodpecker Lake Overlook – Woodpecker Lake loop from Walled Lake is a challenging 12.8-mile (20.7 km) trail that takes approximately 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete.
Can I combine running with other activities like visiting a cafe?
Yes, some routes are conveniently located near amenities. For example, the Woodpecker Lake Outlook – Woodpecker Lake loop from Zerbo's Market & Bistro starts from a market and bistro, making it easy to grab a refreshment before or after your run.
What is the best time of year to go running in Walled Lake?
Walled Lake is suitable for running throughout much of the year. The diverse landscapes, from lake views to wooded paths, offer beauty in every season. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is great for enjoying the lake and park amenities. Winter running is also possible on cleared paths.
Are there trails suitable for families with children?
Many of Walled Lake's trails are multi-use and suitable for families. Lakeshore Park, for instance, features a well-maintained trail system along with recreational amenities like a swimming beach and play structures, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination for all ages.
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