I Moved to Ann Arbor — Where Do I Run?

Amelia Stevenson Howard
17 minutes ago
3 min read

A Guide to Ann Arbor’s Running Community and Best Local Routes

So you’ve just landed in Ann Arbor, laced up your running shoes, and are ready to hit the ground running — literally. Good news: you’ve picked the right city.

Ann Arbor is more than a college town — it’s a runner’s town. With its winding trails, rolling neighborhoods, and strong community support, it offers both scenic solitude and opportunities to connect with other runners at every level.

Whether you’re training for a marathon, jogging to clear your head, or looking for a group to pace with, here’s where and how to get moving in A2.

🏃‍♂️ First: Tap Into the Local Running Community

Before diving into routes, let’s talk people. Ann Arbor’s running community is incredibly welcoming, and there are plenty of ways to plug in:

Running Groups to Join:

Ann Arbor Running Company (AARC)Weekly group runs from their stores on the west and east sides. Friendly, beginner-welcoming, and well-organized.https://www.annarborrunningcompany.com
PR Run ClubA social, casual group that runs from local bars and breweries. Think: a few miles and then a drink with new friends.
UM Rec SportsIf you're affiliated with the University, you can join group runs, track nights, and club teams.

Tip: Show up to a group run just once — the friendships and routines usually follow.

🗺️ Best Places to Run in Ann Arbor

Whether you're into hills, trails, riverside paths, or urban loops, Ann Arbor delivers. Here are some local favorites:

1. The Border-to-Border Trail (B2B)

Distance: 35+ miles across Washtenaw County
Run a paved, scenic stretch along the Huron River through parks like Gallup Park, Fuller Park, and Argo.
Great for: Long runs, flat miles, and riverside views.

2. Nichols Arboretum (“The Arb”)

Trail terrain with serious hills
Wooded, winding paths that’ll make you forget you’re in a city
Great for: Trail runners, hill training, and nature lovers

3. Gallup Park Loop

Distance: ~3 miles for one full loop
Flat, wide, and smooth — ideal for easy days
Great for: Beginners, tempo runs, or stroller jogs

4. Bird Hills Nature Area

One of the hilliest and most challenging trail systems in the city
Forested, rugged terrain with a real “out-of-town” feel
Great for: Trail workouts and strength-building runs

5. Downtown to Kerrytown to Campus Loop

Run through the heart of Ann Arbor, past the Diag, Main Street, and Kerrytown
Good mix of sidewalks, urban scenes, and gentle hills
Great for: Morning city loops or after-work jogs

6. North Campus Trails

Often quieter, with soft surfaces and rolling woods
Great for: Midweek stress-relieving miles or peaceful solo runs

🗓️ Bonus: Running Events in Ann Arbor

Want a goal or local race to aim for? Mark your calendar:

Dexter-Ann Arbor Run (June) – Half Marathon, 10K, 5K along scenic Huron River
The Big House 5K (April) – Ends on the University of Michigan football field!
Ann Arbor Turkey Trot, Holiday Hustle, and AA Marathon – Seasonal and fun events all year long

Final Thoughts

Ann Arbor is built for running — not just because of its beautiful routes, but because of the people who love to move here. Whether you're chasing a PR, logging your first mile, or just want to make new friends with a shared pace, you’ll find your stride in this city.

So go ahead. Hit the pavement, the trails, the river path. Ann Arbor’s waiting — one step at a time.