5.0
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316
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If you've ever tried to find the perfect jogging route around Great Neck, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many parks and paths, it's hard to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in: komoot's community has mapped, run, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best, saving you the guesswork.
Jogging around Great Neck is all about variety and views. You'll find everything from extensive forest trails in places like Kings Point Park to mostly paved paths with expansive waterfront vistas overlooking the Long Island Sound. The terrain ranges from easy, flat loops around lakes to moderate runs with gentle climbs, offering something for every fitness level. While most routes are accessible year-round, the coastal paths are particularly refreshing on a warm day.
If you only do one route, we'd start with the Little Bay Park – Joe Michaels Mile loop from Throgs Neck Bridge. This 6.5 miles (10.4 km) route is a local favorite for its mostly paved surface and stunning views of the lake and historic Fort Totten. For a different flavor, the Baxter Estates Beach loop from Port Washington, at 5.6 miles (9.1 km), offers a unique coastal experience through residential streets and along the water. With more than 280 runners having explored Great Neck with komoot, you're in good company. Dive in and find your next favorite run!
Last updated: June 4, 2026
42
runners
10.4km
01:04
20m
20m
The Little Bay Park – Joe Michaels Mile loop offers a refreshing jogging experience with continuous waterfront views and ample green space. This moderate 6.5-mile (10.4 km) route, which takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete, features mostly paved paths that wind past the Bayside Marina and provide excellent vantage points of the Throgs Neck Bridge. With only 73 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, it's an ideal choice for a relaxed run or a quick workout, allowing you to soak in the scenery without significant physical strain.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as Little Bay Park provides multiple parking lots, restrooms, and water stations. The trail is also dog-friendly, making it a great option for you and your canine companion. To avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful jog, consider heading out on a weekday. The area is particularly beautiful around sunset, when the views over the Throgs Neck Bridge are bathed in rich colors, perfect for an evening outing.
The Joe Michaels Mile is named in honor of Joseph Michaels, a health activist who inspired many to embrace running for cardiac fitness. This historical context adds a layer of meaning to your run, connecting you to a legacy of health and community. Beyond the main loop, the trails within Little Bay Park connect to Fort Totten Park, offering additional opportunities for exploration if you wish to extend your adventure.
39
runners
10.1km
01:02
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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18
runners
9.07km
00:57
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
runners
8.79km
00:55
50m
50m
Lace up for the Mill Pond loop from Manorhaven, a popular 5.5-mile (8.8 km) jogging route that offers a refreshing escape with continuous water views. This moderate route, with its 179 feet (55 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along mostly paved surfaces through park-like settings, providing a tranquil experience. You'll enjoy the gentle undulations and coastal scenery, making it an ideal spot for a focused run or a leisurely jog.
Completing this loop takes approximately 55 minutes, making it a great option for fitting a workout into a busy day. The Manorhaven area is known for its well-maintained paths, ensuring a smooth experience. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the popularity of these Manorhaven running trails suggests convenient access for local visitors.
This Mill Pond loop is a local favorite, celebrated for its accessible nature and scenic beauty. It's part of a broader network of coastal paths and waterfront trails in Port Washington, showcasing the region's natural charm. The diverse landscapes and well-kept paths make it a standout among Port Washington running routes, suitable for various fitness levels.
9
runners
5.94km
00:37
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Great Neck
Fort Totten Lake offers a big grassy area with expansive views of the lake. The lake is located in the park of the same name, with a preserved Civil War fortress. The lake area is a peaceful place to set a picnic and enjoy the breeze coming from the ocean.
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Very close to Manhasset Bay and the coastline is this small pond. You can complete a full loop around it via Mill Pond Road and Harbor Road while enjoying views of the water and the various birds that inhabit it.
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This small beach next to the paved bikepath can be a great spot for a mid-ride stop while you recharge and enjoy the waterfront.
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From here, you have a great view of the Throgs Neck Bridge and of Little Bay.
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From here, you have a great view of the Throgs Neck Bridge and of Little Bay.
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A beautiful stretch of bike path. It is named after Joseph Michaels (1941-1987), a health activist who used to live in Queens.
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Great Neck offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 40 options available for you to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy strolls to more challenging runs.
You'll find a diverse range of terrain on Great Neck's running trails. Many parks, like Kings Point Park, offer a beautiful forest environment with natural trails. Other areas, such as Little Bay Park, feature mostly paved paths suitable for all skill levels. Overall, expect a mix of well-maintained paths, lush greenery, and winding trails.
Yes, Great Neck has several parks with paths suitable for families. Little Bay Park's Joe Michaels Mile loop is mostly paved and offers an easy, accessible option. Parks like Memorial Park and Village Green Park also provide peaceful, scenic pathways ideal for a family jog or walk.
While specific regulations can vary by park, many of Great Neck's outdoor spaces are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check the specific park's rules before you go. For general information on local parks, you can visit the Great Neck Parks Department website.
For stunning waterfront views, consider routes that pass through Little Bay Park, which offers expansive views of the bay and the historic Fort Totten. The Baxter Estates Beach loop also provides coastal scenery. Many parks, including Steppingstone Park, offer picturesque views overlooking the Long Island Sound.
Absolutely! You can incorporate history into your run. The Little Bay Park – Joe Michaels Mile loop passes by the preserved Civil War fortress at Fort Totten. You might also encounter the 18th-century Saddle Rock Grist Mill and its adjacent millpond, or the Shore Road Bridge.
Yes, many of the running routes in Great Neck are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your run in the same location. Popular examples include the Little Bay Park – Joe Michaels Mile loop and the Mill Pond loop.
For longer runs, Great Neck has several options exceeding 5 miles. The Little Bay Park – Joe Michaels Mile loop from Fort Totten Park is 6.8 miles, and the Little Bay Park – Joe Michaels Mile loop from Bayside is 6.3 miles. Kings Point Park also features over five miles of trails within its 175 acres, allowing for extended runs.
Yes, most major parks in Great Neck, such as Kings Point Park, Little Bay Park, and Steppingstone Park, offer designated parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check the specific park's website for detailed parking information and any potential fees.
Great Neck is accessible via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to the Great Neck station. From there, local bus services or a short walk can connect you to many of the area's parks and running routes. For specific park access, you might consult local transit maps or the Great Neck Parks Department facilities page.
The running routes in Great Neck are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. More than 280 runners have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the varied parkland, scenic waterfront views, and well-maintained paths that offer options for different ability levels.
Great Neck offers several excellent parks for jogging. Kings Point Park is ideal for those seeking extensive forest trails, while Little Bay Park is popular for its paved loops and lake views. Other notable parks include Saddle Rock Park for tranquil paths, and Memorial Park for a peaceful ambiance in the heart of Great Neck.
Great Neck's parks are enjoyable year-round. In spring and summer, the lush greenery is vibrant, but be mindful of warmer temperatures and potential insects. Fall offers beautiful foliage and cooler weather, while winter can provide crisp, quiet runs, though some paths might be icy or covered in snow. Always check local weather conditions and park advisories before heading out.


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