The best running trails around Southern Shops

Southern Shops offers access to a diverse network of trails within Spartanburg County. You'll find a mix of paved urban trails, such as the Mary Black Rail Trail, and natural-surface paths through preserves like the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve, which hosts the Cottonwood Trail. These routes feature wetlands, open spaces, tree canopies, and creek crossings.

Yes, there are several easy options. The Cottonwood Trail is an easy 2.6-mile path through natural surfaces. Another great choice is The Rail Yard loop from Spartanburg, an easy 2.7-mile route through urban landscapes and parks.

While jogging, you can explore several natural features and landmarks. The Cottonwood Trail winds through the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve, offering views of wetlands and diverse wildlife. You might also encounter the River Birch Trail, known for its beautiful tree canopy and crossing over Lawson's Fork Creek. Duncan Park also features a 14-acre Duncan Park Lake.

For those looking for a longer challenge, the Mary Black Rail Trail – The Rail Yard loop from Duncan Park Stadium offers a difficult 9.6-mile (15.5 km) route. This extensive loop provides a significant workout with varied scenery.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For instance, The Rail Yard loop from Spartanburg is a popular circular option. Another is the Running loop from Spartanburg, which is a moderate 5-mile (8 km) route.

Many trails are family-friendly, especially those with paved, flat surfaces. The Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail is ideal for families, offering a traffic-free environment and connecting to parks with amenities. The Mary H. Wright Greenway also includes playgrounds, making it suitable for outings with children.

Yes, many trails in Spartanburg County are dog-friendly. The Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail, for example, features a dedicated dog park along its route, making it a great option for running with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow local regulations.

The routes around Southern Shops cater to various fitness levels. You'll find a good mix, with approximately 5 easy routes, 6 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route available. This variety ensures options for beginners, intermediate runners, and those seeking a more challenging run.

Absolutely. The Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail is a key urban route that links several neighborhoods directly to downtown Spartanburg. It's a flat, paved, and traffic-free path, perfect for an urban run or commute.

On natural surface trails like the Cottonwood Trail within the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve, you might spot diverse wildlife. Common sightings include deer, wild turkey, fox, and beaver, especially in the wetland areas.

There are over 10 dedicated jogging routes available around Southern Shops, offering a wide range of distances and difficulty levels to explore.

The komoot community frequently praises the variety of terrain, from the smooth, paved surfaces of the rail trails to the serene natural paths through preserves. Runners often highlight the accessibility of these routes and the opportunity to experience both urban landscapes and natural scenery.