The best running trails in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge
4.5
(33)
2,192
runners
130
runs
Jogging routes in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge offer an urban wetland and freshwater marsh environment for outdoor activity. The area features an accessible circuit trail, including a wooden pontoon walkway, providing a flat and well-maintained pathway around the lagoon. This setting allows for physical activity within a tranquil natural ambiance, close to urban conveniences. The trails meander along the lagoon's edge, offering views of the waters and the local ecosystem.
Best jogging routes in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge
- The mostโฆ
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.6
(9)
348
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
127
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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27
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
30
runners
5.79km
00:36
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Trestle Bridge provides access to many of Santa Cruz's most popular attractions. Including, but not limited to Santa Cruz beach, the boardwalk, and downtown Santa Cruz.
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The Santa Cruz Boardwalk is an icon of the California Coast. Tourists have been flocking here since it first opened in 1907, and it is the state's oldest surviving amusement park.
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Stunning Natural Bridge Beach is known for its natural arches made of fine clay or mud rock, carved by time, water, and wind. The beach is also known for being home to a colony of monarch butterflies, with over 150,000 coming to live here for the winter. If you're lucky, you might even spot whales!
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This is a great place to stop and have a look over the water. The cliffs and ocean area treat on their own, but the surfers and sailboats add an extra touch to the scene.
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The Santa Cruz Pier is a staple of the area. It has a paid amusement park, public restrooms, classic fair food options, and access to the beach. The Ferris wheel with the ocean in the background makes for an iconic photo op.
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The Santa Cruz Riverwalk runs along the San Lorenzo River levee from the Highway 1 Bridge to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, providing easy access to downtown Santa Cruz.
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The Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail crosses the river on the San Lorenzo River Railroad Bridge. You are right next to the actual tracks and get a pretty cool view up and down the waterway.
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In the summer of 1885, three young Hawaiian princes ignited the California coast's surfing phenomenon by introducing their boards and the ancient Hawaiian sport to the American mainland. A commemorative plaque near the former lighthouse, now home to a quaint surfing museum, immortalizes this significant moment in history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge?
There are over 130 running routes available in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge, offering a wide variety of options for different fitness levels and preferences.
What is the typical difficulty level of jogging trails in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge?
The trails in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge are generally considered easy to moderate. The refuge features an accessible circuit trail with flat terrain, suitable for various fitness levels. Out of the 131 routes, 18 are easy and 88 are moderate, making it a great spot for a relaxed run.
Are the jogging paths in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge suitable for families?
Yes, the accessible circuit trail around Neary Lagoon is suitable for individuals of all ages and abilities, including families. Its flat, well-maintained pathways make it ideal for a peaceful run or stroll with children.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge?
No, dogs are unfortunately prohibited in the Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge area to maintain its serene atmosphere and protect the diverse wildlife. This rule helps ensure a tranquil environment for both visitors and the local ecosystem.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while jogging in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge?
Neary Lagoon is a critical wildlife refuge, offering diverse birdwatching opportunities. Joggers can spot mallard and wood ducks, pied-billed grebes, coots, geese, and various fish species. Occasional sightings of great blue herons and hawks are also possible, with interpretive signage providing educational information along the way.
Are there any loop running trails in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge?
Yes, the refuge features a less-than-one-mile circuit around the lagoon, including a wooden pontoon walkway, which is ideal for a peaceful loop run. Additionally, komoot offers several loop routes in the wider Santa Cruz area, such as the Surfer Statue loop from Santa Cruz, an easy 3.3 km path.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Runners often praise the tranquil ambiance, scenic views of the shimmering waters, and the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife within an urban setting.
Is there parking available near the jogging trails?
Yes, there is limited parking available near Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge. Public entrances are conveniently located at the ends of Chestnut and Blackburn Streets, and at the corner of Bay and California Streets.
How can I get to Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge using public transport?
Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge is easily accessible by public transport. Public entrances are conveniently located at the ends of Chestnut and Blackburn Streets, and at the corner of Bay and California Streets, making it well-connected by Santa Cruz Metro routes.
Are there any notable landmarks or scenic spots along the running routes?
While the refuge itself is an urban wetland oasis, offering scenic views of the lagoon and its thriving ecosystem, some nearby running routes extend to other notable areas. For example, the Natural Bridges State Beach โ Santa Cruz Lighthouse loop from Santa Cruz offers coastal views and passes by the Santa Cruz Lighthouse.
What is the best time of year to go running in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge?
Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge offers a pleasant running experience year-round due to its mild climate. However, the diverse wildlife, especially birds, can be particularly active during migration seasons, making spring and fall excellent times for combining your run with nature observation.
Are there any amenities like restrooms or cafes near the trails?
The refuge offers amenities such as restrooms, though they may occasionally be closed for maintenance. While there are no cafes directly within the refuge, its urban location means there are various cafes and restaurants within walking distance in the surrounding Santa Cruz area.
Most popular routes in Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge
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