The best running trails in Hillsdale County

Hillsdale County is known for its "hills and dales" topography, offering a mix of rolling terrain and scenic valleys. You'll find routes winding through oak-hickory forests, mixed oak savannas, and alongside numerous lakes and rivers. Elevations reach up to 1,250 feet, providing gentle ascents and descents rather than steep climbs.

There are 5 curated running routes available in Hillsdale County, all rated as moderate in difficulty. These routes offer a good variety of distances and scenery for runners.

Yes, Hillsdale County is home to over 100 lakes, and several running routes offer beautiful waterside scenery. For example, the Clark Lake loop from Clarklake and the Clark Lake loop from Columbia Township both circle Clark Lake, providing consistent lakeside views.

Many of the trails in Hillsdale County are suitable for families due to their moderate difficulty and scenic surroundings. The Baw Beese Trail, for instance, is a paved path that leads to a park by Lake Baw Beese, which has a beach, playground, and picnic area, making it ideal for a family outing combined with a run.

Hillsdale County boasts several excellent parks for running. The Baw Beese Trail and Lake Baw Beese are very popular. Other notable spots include Slayton Arboretum with its serene trails, Owens Park, Cold Springs Park, and Lewis Emery County Park, which features paths winding through woods and alongside streams.

While all routes in this guide are rated moderate, Hayden Park is known for its hills and is frequently used for cross-country races, offering a more challenging workout for runners seeking varied elevation. The rolling terrain throughout the county also provides natural challenges.

The running routes in Hillsdale County vary in length. You can find options like the MacCready Nature Reserve loop at about 6.4 km (4 miles), or longer routes such as the Clark Lake loop from Clarklake, which is approximately 12.4 km (7.7 miles).

Yes, many of the running routes in Hillsdale County are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Clark Lake loop from Clarklake and the Running loop from Hillsdale, which allow you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your steps.

Many parks and trails in Hillsdale County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations regarding leashes and waste disposal. Natural areas like the Lost Nation State Game Area, with its 1.5-mile Lost Nation Trail, offer a great environment for running with your canine companion.

For a more secluded experience, consider Lewis Emery County Park, which features paths winding through woods and alongside a small stream, providing a quiet running environment. The Lost Nation State Game Area also offers a natural setting away from more populated areas.

Yes, the Baw Beese Trail is a prominent paved path in Hillsdale County, ideal for runners who prefer a smoother surface. It offers small-town scenery and leads to a park by Baw Beese Lake.

Hillsdale County's moderate climate allows for outdoor activities much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Even in winter, parks like Hayden Park can be used for cross-country skiing, and many trails remain accessible for running, though conditions may vary.

Absolutely. The city of Hillsdale itself maintains a variety of parks and 7.5 miles of multi-use non-motorized trails. Routes like the Running loop from Hillsdale are easily accessible from the city, offering varied local terrain.