The best running trails around Herent
4.1
(67)
4,331
runners
117
runs
Jogging routes around Herent offer a diverse landscape for runners, characterized by accessible canal paths, expansive nature parks, and varied forest trails. The region features the mostly paved Leuven-Dijle Canal Path, providing relatively flat surfaces suitable for different fitness levels. Inland, areas like De Groene Vallei Nature Park present a mix of marshes, forests, grasslands, and agricultural zones, offering engaging trail running experiences. This combination of terrain ensures a range of options from smooth, longer runs to more dynamic, natural…
Last updated: May 7, 2026
4.8
(6)
896
runners
13.9km
01:28
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(6)
142
runners
6.66km
00:42
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.0
(1)
89
runners
9.44km
00:58
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
94
runners
7.94km
00:49
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
77
runners
9.86km
01:07
140m
140m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Herent
Tips from the Community
The Stella Artois brewery is located in the heart of Leuven. In the city registers of Leuven, we find a record of excise duties for the Den Hoorn brewery as early as 1366. It was at this brewery that Sébastien Artois became master brewer on June 13, 1708. His name thus became inextricably linked to the brewery and the city of Leuven. In 1926, the Artois brewery launched a Christmas beer, following the tradition of the time. It was called "Stella," the Latin word for "star." The beer was such a success that the brewer decided to market it permanently. Our Stella Artois still exists today. The horn and the year 1366 are still mentioned in the logo, references to the beer's origins. Click on the map at https://ab-inbev.be/ with the breweries, select the one for Leuven, and you will find this text with a photo and directions to the brewery.
6
0
Only four choices (I think): go left, go right, turn back, or stay put (sitting is also an option).
5
0
This sunken road takes you to or from De Bereklauw, see https://www.komoot.com/nl-nl/highlight/4091245
5
0
Stella Artois Brewery is part of the world's largest brewing group, AB InBev. Firmly rooted in its hometown of Leuven, it can be visited weekly.
1
0
There is usually not much to do with water towers, but they are of course very important and, in my opinion, also fascinating. Each water tower has an architecture (and therefore architect) and place in the landscape, where they are often located on the highest points. This is also the case in Bertem. With a capacity of 7000 cubic meters and a height of 31 meters, the water tower was built in 1968. On the website of De Watergroep you can find a PDF with all the water towers.
6
1
A sunken road is a road that is so deeply worn that it lies between two slopes. It is the result of centuries of use and erosion. The most beautiful sunken roads can be found especially in hilly areas with a subsoil that easily forms steep walls, such as in Haspengouw and Hageland.
2
2
Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Herent?
Herent offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 100 routes available. These include 13 easy routes, 91 moderate routes, and 12 more challenging trails, catering to all fitness levels.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on the running trails in Herent?
You'll find a diverse mix of landscapes. Many routes follow the mostly paved Leuven-Dijle Canal Path, offering flat and consistent surfaces. Inland, areas like De Groene Vallei Nature Park provide varied terrain, including marshes, forests, grasslands, and agricultural zones, perfect for trail running. You can also explore forest environments such as Bertembos.
Are there any easy running routes suitable for beginners in Herent?
Yes, Herent has 13 easy running routes. A great option for beginners is the View of Herent loop from Wijgmaal, which is 4.9 km long and offers minimal elevation gain, making it a comfortable run.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Herent?
The running routes in Herent are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 4000 runners have explored the area, often praising the accessible canal paths and the diverse natural environments found in places like De Groene Vallei.
Are there any challenging running routes for experienced runners in Herent?
For those seeking a greater challenge, Herent offers 12 difficult routes. The Sunken Lane – Technical forest trail loop from Wilsele-Dorp is a good example, featuring significant elevation changes over its 11.2 km distance, providing a more demanding experience.
Are there any circular running routes in Herent?
Yes, many of the running routes in Herent are circular. Popular options include the Leuven Marina – Leuven-Dijle Canal Path loop from Herent (10.6 km) and the Running loop from Terbank (6.6 km), both offering convenient starting and ending points.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural features I can see along the running routes?
While running, you can enjoy views along the Leuven-Dijle Canal. Nearby attractions include the Demer Towpath and the Cycling Highway Leuven-Mechelen Along the Leuven-Dijle Canal. The expansive De Groene Vallei Nature Park is also rich in biodiversity, with marshes, forests, and grasslands, and is home to protected species like the bluethroat and kingfisher.
Are there family-friendly running routes in Herent?
Absolutely. The mostly paved sections of the Leuven-Dijle Canal Path are suitable for all skill levels and can be enjoyed by families. Easy routes like the View of Herent loop from Wijgmaal are also great for a family outing.
What is the best time of year for jogging in Herent?
Herent offers pleasant running conditions throughout much of the year. The region's diverse landscapes, including forests and canal paths, provide scenic beauty in spring, summer, and autumn. Autumn, in particular, is noted for its scenic beauty, with events like 'Trail for Nature' taking advantage of the colorful landscapes.
Are there any dog-friendly running trails in Herent?
While specific rules for dogs on every trail vary, many natural areas and canal paths in Belgium are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. The diverse trails in De Groene Vallei Nature Park and along the Leuven-Dijle Canal are popular choices for runners with their canine companions.
Can I find running routes that offer views of Herent?
Yes, some routes provide scenic views of the local area. The View of Herent loop from Wijgmaal is specifically named for its vistas, offering a pleasant 4.9 km run with local scenery.
Are there any running routes that follow a canal?
Yes, the Leuven-Dijle Canal Path is a prominent feature for runners in Herent. Routes like the Leuven Marina – Leuven-Dijle Canal Path loop from Herent and the longer Leuven-Dijle Canal Path loop from Herent utilize this mostly paved path, offering smooth and consistent surfaces along the water.
Most popular attractions around Herent
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.
