In Stamford and Greenwich, there’s some excellent trail running options in Mianus River Park and Babcock Preserve. The areas are about 3 miles apart.

Mianus River Park. The 400-acre park combines three adjacent properties: Mianus River and Natural Park in Greenwich, Mianus River Park in Stamford, & Mianus River State Park. There’s a nice variety of terrain, with woods, fields, and rolling hills. The two best loop options are the 2.6 mile Nature Trail and the 4.5 mile Yellow Loop, the latter featuring 356 feet of elevation gain. The footing is not technical, but there are roots and rocks.  Note: keep an eye out for mountain bikers! 

Babcock Preserve. This area features 300 acres of woodlands, stretching between North Street and Lake Avenue in Greenwich. There’s a nice variety of easier and more rugged trails. Overall, about 7 miles of trails, including a 4.1 mile loop popular with runners. There YTh Access and parking is off North Street about .5 mile north of the Merritt Parkway.