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Greece

The best running trails around Greece

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 31, 2026

If you’ve ever tried to plan jogging around Greece, you know how quickly the sheer number of options can become overwhelming. It’s tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just generic filler. We get it – you want the real highlights, not just a list of every path.

That’s where komoot comes in. Our community has meticulously mapped, run, and reviewed countless routes across Greece, so we’ve done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best. This guide isn't a recycled highlights reel; it’s a trusted shortcut to the trails that are truly worth your legs.

Greece is a jogger’s dream, with its dramatic mix of extensive mountainous terrain, thousands of kilometers of coastline, and surprisingly serene urban green spaces. You’ll find everything from gentle coastal paths to challenging mountain ascents, offering scenic jogging paths Greece for every mood. While accessible year-round, spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds for exploring these trails.

If you only do one, we’d start with the iconic Santorini Caldera Path. This 6.2 miles (10.0 km) route offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and picturesque villages – it’s the biggest payoff for the least effort when it comes to views. For a taste of Greece's wilder side, the Mount Olympus Foothills Trail is a fantastic moderate 7.5 miles (12.0 km) path winding through lush forests. With more than 300 runners already exploring Greece with komoot, you’re in good company. Dive in and find your next favorite route!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Genesee Riverway Trail – High Falls loop from Rochester
  2. 2

    Pont de Rennes Bridge – High Falls loop from Northgate Plaza
  3. 3

    Genesee Riverway Trail loop from Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Genesee Riverway Trail – High Falls loop from Rochester

26.9 km

200 m

Hard

Pont de Rennes Bridge – High Falls loop from Northgate Plaza

30.3 km

220 m

Hard

Genesee Riverway Trail loop from Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

9.65 km

60 m

Moderate

View of Court Street Dam loop from Rochester

6.84 km

30 m

Moderate

Genesee Riverway Trail loop from Seneca Park Zoo

9.97 km

60 m

Moderate

Irondequoit Lakeside Trail – Lake Ontario sand beach loop from Irondequoit

18.7 km

120 m

Hard

Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse – Genesee Riverway Trail loop from Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

19.4 km

110 m

Hard

Pond in Durand Eastman Park – Lake Ontario sand beach loop from Irondequoit

14.1 km

90 m

Moderate

Running loop from Irondequoit

7.45 km

40 m

Moderate

Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse loop from Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

16.6 km

70 m

Hard

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1.

Genesee Riverway Trail – High Falls loop from Rochester

26.9km

02:49

200m

200m

The Genesee Riverway Trail – High Falls loop offers a captivating blend of urban history and natural spectacle, making it one of the more popular trails in the Rochester area. You'll jog along mostly paved surfaces, enjoying ever-changing scenery from the dramatic 96-foot High Falls plunging in the city's heart to the ancient rock formations of the Genesee River Gorge. This difficult 16.7-mile (26.9 km) route, with its 656 feet (200 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 48 minutes, providing a substantial workout for experienced joggers.

Planning your visit to the Genesee Riverway Trail is straightforward, as it's well-integrated into Rochester's urban fabric. While the full loop is a challenging commitment, you can easily access shorter, more family-friendly sections around the High Falls for a quick scenic view. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned, and parking is generally available in various spots along the trail's urban stretch, though arriving earlier in the day is always a good idea for popular jogging routes.

This trail isn't just a path; it's a journey through Rochester's past and present. Designated a National Recreational Trail, it highlights the historic significance of the High Falls, which powered the city's early industrial development. The route also connects to other major regional trails like the Erie Canalway Trail, offering even more exploration opportunities, and future plans include a new New York State Park at High Falls, promising expanded access and new viewpoints.

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3.

Genesee Riverway Trail loop from Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

9.65km

01:01

60m

60m

The Genesee Riverway Trail loop from Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse offers a delightful blend of historical charm and natural beauty, perfect for a refreshing jog. You'll start near the iconic 1822 stone lighthouse, immediately soaking in panoramic views of Lake Ontario and the Genesee River. The route largely follows paved surfaces, making for a smooth run as you pass through Ontario Beach Park and over the scenic boardwalks of Turning Point Park, where marshy landscapes meet river views. It's a moderate 6.0-mile (9.6 km) journey with a gentle 200 feet (61 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the historic Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse serving as a clear starting point. Parking is generally available in the vicinity of the lighthouse and Ontario Beach Park, making access easy. This multi-use trail is enjoyable in most seasons, but always a good idea to check local weather conditions, especially if you're considering a winter run. It's a great option for those looking for a relatively easy, high-reward outing without needing extensive planning.

This section of the Genesee Riverway Trail is part of a designated National Recreational Trail, highlighting its significance and quality. Beyond the lighthouse, the trail connects to other major systems like the Erie Canalway Trail, offering options for much longer runs if you desire. Keep an eye out for the diverse scenery, from the lively atmosphere of Ontario Beach Park to the tranquil river views from the Turning Point Park boardwalk, making it a fantastic spot for nature watching and enjoying the waterfront.

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4.

View of Court Street Dam loop from Rochester

6.84km

00:42

30m

30m

The View of Court Street Dam loop from Rochester offers a refreshing urban escape, guiding you along the Genesee River on mostly paved, flat paths. You'll experience a dynamic blend of city views and natural river scenery, with the historic Court Street Dam serving as a prominent landmark. This moderate 4.3-mile (6.8 km) jogging route, with just 87 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, is a quick 42-minute outing that provides a consistent and enjoyable running experience.

Planning your visit to this popular Rochester jogging path is straightforward. The trail's central location makes it easily accessible, and its paved surface is suitable for year-round use, though spring and fall provide ideal weather. It's a great option for a quick workout or a scenic run at any time of day, offering a safe and well-maintained environment for joggers.

This loop is a key part of the extensive Genesee Riverway Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail that connects various parks and historical sites throughout Rochester. It highlights the city's unique combination of urban development and natural beauty, providing pedestrian access to the Genesee River and its features. The Court Street Dam itself is historically significant, playing a role in maintaining water levels for the Erie Canal.

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6.

Irondequoit Lakeside Trail – Lake Ontario sand beach loop from Irondequoit

18.7km

01:56

120m

120m

The Irondequoit Lakeside Trail offers a dynamic jogging experience, blending paved paths with sandy stretches along the Lake Ontario shoreline. You'll pass through the verdant Durand Eastman Park, enjoying tree-lined sections and views of Durand Lake, before a unique timber boardwalk guides you through Tamarack Swamp. This route provides a varied workout with scenic rewards, perfect for those who enjoy changing terrain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with multiple parking areas and restrooms available along the trail. While generally accessible, the route includes some challenging inclines, particularly near Seabreeze, so consider your fitness level. Starting earlier in the day can help you avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures, especially during warmer months.

Historically, a significant portion of the trail follows a former trolley bed, repurposing old infrastructure for modern recreation. Beyond its natural beauty, you can spot landmarks like the Seabreeze Pier and even the

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7.

Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse – Genesee Riverway Trail loop from Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

19.4km

02:01

110m

110m

This Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse – Genesee Riverway Trail loop offers a dynamic jogging experience, tracing the Genesee River from Lake Ontario. You'll start at the historic 1822 Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse, enjoying sweeping views of the lake before the trail guides you through a mix of urban parks and natural areas. Expect to see a scenic gorge and three impressive waterfalls along the way, with the path transitioning between paved and some unpaved sections.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse serving as a convenient starting point with available parking. This 12.1-mile (19.4 km) route, rated difficult, involves 370 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 2 hours and 1 minute to complete. It's a solid choice for experienced joggers seeking a longer, varied run, and autumn is particularly scenic with the fall foliage.

The Genesee Riverway Trail is notable for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, connecting nine historic districts. It's a multi-use path that integrates Rochester's neighborhoods with its natural attractions, making it a vital community asset. The trail also links to other major systems like the Erie Canalway Trail, offering possibilities for even longer explorations.

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8.

Pond in Durand Eastman Park – Lake Ontario sand beach loop from Irondequoit

14.1km

01:29

90m

90m

This diverse jogging loop in Durand Eastman Park offers a fantastic blend of scenery, taking you from the sandy shores of Lake Ontario into the tranquil, wooded areas around Durand Lake or Eastman Lake. You'll experience varied terrain, from paved paths along the lakefront to packed dirt and rooty single-track inland, all while enjoying consistent lake views and dense woodlands. Keep an eye out for waterfowl and painted turtles as you move through the fully enclosed canopy.

Durand Eastman Park provides free access, making it an easy choice for a spontaneous outing. While specific trailhead parking isn't detailed, the park's size suggests multiple entry points. This route is best enjoyed during spring for wildflowers or fall for vibrant foliage, but it's a solid option year-round for a moderate workout. Be prepared for a mix of surfaces and some rolling hills.

At 8.8 miles (14.1 km) with 292 feet (89 metres) of elevation gain, this moderate loop takes about 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete, offering a good challenge without being overly strenuous. The park is known for its rich biodiversity and 5,000 feet of Lake Ontario waterfront, providing a unique combination of beach and forest experiences. It's a prime spot for birdwatching and enjoying diverse flora, making it a versatile and engaging route for joggers near Irondequoit.

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9.

Running loop from Irondequoit

7.45km

00:46

40m

40m

This Irondequoit running loop offers a diverse experience, primarily following the Irondequoit Lakeside Multi-Use Trail. You'll jog on predominantly paved asphalt, with some residential sidewalks, enjoying continuous views of Lake Ontario and Irondequoit Bay. The route takes you through comfortable, tree-lined areas and past the lush forests of Durand Eastman Park, providing a rich array of scenery for your 4.6-mile (7.5 km) journey.

While considered a smooth journey, the trail does present some hills, contributing to a 'great workout' with 131 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain. Expect a notable uphill stretch of about one mile along Culver Road, followed by a shaded downhill segment. This moderate loop can be completed in about 46 minutes, making it a good option for those seeking a varied workout without committing to an all-day excursion.

Historically a trolley bed, this multi-use trail connects key waterways and offers opportunities to link up with other recreational routes like the Genesee Riverway Trail for longer runs. Its proximity to Seabreeze Amusement Park is a distinctive landmark, and the trail's blend of urban elements, wooded areas, and beach access makes it one of the best running routes in Irondequoit for varied scenery.

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Tips from the Community

Lisa
May 20, 2025, View of Rochester Skyline from Genesee River Trail

This paved-over rail trail runs more than 22 miles along the river. If you bike the whole length you'll see at least three waterfalls in the beautiful Genesee River Gorge, while also passing through eleven parks and across eight pedestrian bridges.

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The Court Street Dam, just south of Court Street's crossing of the Genesee River, was built in 1927. It replaced the Mohawk Dam that was built in 1917.

1

0

The viewpoint from Maplewood Drive is beautiful and lush.

0

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Offering sweeping views of High Falls and the Genesee River Gorge, the Pont de Rennes is more than just a pedestrian bridge—it’s a front-row seat to Rochester’s industrial past and natural beauty.

0

0

Tim
April 15, 2025, High Falls

The bridge renovation is wonderful!

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Lisa
September 28, 2024, Genesee Riverway Trail

This paved-over rail trail runs more than 22 miles along the river. If you bike the whole length you'll see at least three waterfalls in the beautiful Genesee River Gorge, while also passing through eleven parks and across eight pedestrian bridges.

0

0

Zachary
September 19, 2024, High Falls

From this decorated terrace platform you overlook this 96-foot high natural waterfall. The Genesee River is fairly wide at this point and the power of the falls is something to behold. The falls have been used throughout U.S. history to power mills and industry; today they generate hydroelectric power.

0

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This is an old historic bridge built in 1893. You will pass an information board on the Promenade that details the history of the three attempts that were made at its construction. You may need to dismount your bike to cross the bridge itself if you are making a loop with the Genesee River Trail. From here you get a great view of the Frederick Douglass Susan B Anthony Bridge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many running routes are available in Greece?

There are over 30 dedicated running routes in Greece, catering to various preferences and skill levels. The komoot community has explored these trails extensively, with over 200 runners using komoot to discover the diverse terrain.

What kind of terrain can I expect on running trails in Greece?

Greece offers a remarkable variety of terrain for runners. You'll find everything from extensive mountainous paths, deep gorges, and dense forests to thousands of kilometers of coastline with scenic sea views. Even urban areas like Athens provide green spaces and hills for a varied running experience.

Are there any easy running paths suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, Greece has several easy running paths. For instance, the Athens National Garden Loop is a serene 2.5-mile (4.0 km) trail through an urban oasis, perfect for a gentle jog. Coastal promenades in cities like Chania and Rethymno on Crete also offer flat, accessible options.

What are some challenging running routes for experienced runners?

For those seeking a challenge, Greece's mountainous regions provide excellent options. Trails on Mount Olympus, Greece's highest mountain, offer invigorating experiences. Additionally, the Genesee Riverway Trail – High Falls loop from Rochester, though not in Greece, is classified as difficult, indicating the type of challenging routes you might find in Greek mountains with significant elevation changes.

Can I find running routes with historical landmarks or ancient sites?

Absolutely. Greece is rich in history. You can find trails that combine natural beauty with historical significance, such as paths around Meteora's unique rock formations topped with ancient monasteries. In Athens, areas like the Zappeion and Panathenaic Stadium offer a historical running experience. Philopappos Hill, opposite the Acropolis, also provides stunning views of ancient sites.

Are there any running trails that offer scenic viewpoints?

Many running routes in Greece boast incredible scenic views. The Santorini Caldera Path is famous for its panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Mount Lycabettus in Athens offers an incredible 360-degree panoramic view of the city, making for a rewarding uphill run.

What is the best time of year to go jogging in Greece?

Greece's mild Mediterranean climate allows for year-round outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, from wildflowers to autumn foliage. Even winter offers opportunities for running, especially in coastal areas, while certain mountain regions might offer snow sports.

Are there any circular running routes available?

Yes, many routes in Greece are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Genesee Riverway Trail loop from Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse is a moderate 6.9 km circular route. You'll find similar circular options across various regions, from urban parks to coastal paths.

What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Greece?

The komoot community highly rates running in Greece, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 20 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from breathtaking coastal views to challenging mountain trails, and the opportunity to combine physical activity with exploring historical sites and natural wonders.

Are there any notable natural features to see along the running routes?

Greece is home to spectacular natural features. You can run near the impressive Samaria Gorge on Crete, one of Europe's longest, or explore the deep Vikos Gorge in the Pindus Mountains. The Rodopi Mountains offer dense conifer forests and numerous waterfalls, while the unique rock formations of Meteora provide a stunning backdrop for a run.

Are there any attractions near the running trails in Greece?

Yes, many running trails are close to interesting attractions. For example, the Erie Canal Trail and Genesee Riverway Trail are popular trails themselves. You might also find historical sites like the Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse or architectural marvels such as the Frederick Douglass Susan B Anthony Bridge near various routes.

Are there running routes with significant elevation gain?

For runners looking for elevation, Greece's mountainous regions are ideal. Trails on Mount Olympus and Mount Parnitha (near Athens) offer substantial uphill challenges. Even within Athens, Mount Lycabettus provides an exhilarating uphill route with a rewarding panoramic view at the summit.

Can I find running paths along the coast or on islands?

Greece's extensive coastline and numerous islands offer abundant coastal running paths. The hike from Fira to Oia on Santorini is a popular route with idyllic sea views. Crete features extensive shoreline promenades, and islands like Mykonos and Rhodes also have pleasant waterfront running options.

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