The best running trails around Plymouth

The Toby Creek loop from Kingston, drawing inspiration from the Clarion-Little Toby Creek Trail, offers a delightful jogging experience through scenic woodlands. You'll follow a well-packed, fine gravel surface that meanders alongside the Clarion River and Little Toby Creek, providing picturesque mountain and water views. This route is mostly flat, making it an accessible and enjoyable option for a relaxed run, with opportunities to spot local wildlife.

This moderate 7.9-mile (12.6 km) route, with a minimal 87 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. It's open year-round, but if you visit during hunting season, remember to wear fluorescent orange as sections pass through state game lands. Be prepared for limited cell phone service in some areas, so download your route beforehand.

Historically, this trail follows a former railway line, offering glimpses into the area's lumber heritage and even passing remnants of 1800s ghost towns. Its rail-trail nature ensures gentle grades, making it suitable for various fitness levels. The unique Blue Rock Swinging Bridge, just off the trail, adds a notable feature to this charming and historically rich route.

The River Common Park – Wilkes-Barre River Common loop offers a delightful and accessible jogging experience along the Susquehanna River. You'll follow paved asphalt and concrete paths, enjoying continuous scenic views of the water, its forested banks, and the Wilkes-Barre city skyline. Look for the impressive Market Street Bridge and the historic eagle statues as you pass, with lush gardens and ornamental trees adding to the pleasant atmosphere.

This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) route involves a minimal 169 feet (51 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 31 minutes to jog, making it ideal for a quick workout or a leisurely stroll. The trail is suitable for all users, including those with strollers or mobility devices, thanks to its smooth and generally level terrain. It's a great option for beginner jogging routes in Wilkes-Barre.

The River Common is a historic riverfront park, with origins dating back to 1769, and plays a crucial role in flood protection as part of the Wyoming Valley Levee System. Beyond its natural beauty, the park features a 750-seat amphitheater for public events and provides easy access to other green spaces like Kirby Park. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as bald eagles and heron along the river.

The Luzerne County Levee Trail offers a refreshing jogging experience along the Susquehanna River, providing a mix of river views, green spaces, and even a unique vantage point for watching planes near the Wilkes-Barre/Wyoming Valley Airport. The terrain is predominantly flat and paved, making it an easy-to-navigate route for a consistent workout. You'll find yourself moving through varied scenery, from natural riverbanks to urban park settings, all on a smooth surface.

This moderate route is 6.1 miles (9.8 km) long with a gentle 73 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete. It's an excellent choice for those looking for a low-impact run or a family-friendly outing. With numerous access points, including convenient parking near Swoyersville, it's easy to jump on the trail, and its year-round accessibility means you can enjoy it whenever the mood strikes.

The trail is built atop an extensive levee system, originally constructed for flood protection in the Wyoming Valley, with parts raised after Tropical Storm Agnes in the 1970s. This historical context adds an interesting layer to your jog. It's a popular multi-use path, connecting various communities and parks, and future plans aim to link it with other regional trails like the Susquehanna Warrior Trail, further expanding its reach and utility.