United States

Little Rock, AR

A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Places to Run in Little Rock

Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau

The capital of Arkansas, Little Rock is named for a geological formation in the Arkansas River, which runs through the city. In addition to its numerous arts, culture, and recreation opportunities, Little Rock has a thriving convention center, and is home to numerous corporateheadquarters. There’s a good variety of running in Little Rock, ranging from signature trails along the river to lovely parks and residential neighborhoods.

The best place to run in Little Rock is along the extensive series of multi-use paths along the Arkansas River. However, Little Rock’s gorgeous neighborhoods, which range from fresh planned communities to historic residential areas, are all pleasant for running. We’ve mapped routes in Allsopp Park and Hillcrest, The Heights, and Chenal. Trail runners will find plenty of views and variety in Pinnacle State Park and the Rock Creek Trail.

Apart from the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport and the Union Station train depot, which deliver visitors to and from the city, the most reliable public transportation in Little Rock is the Rock Region Metro. These buses, including the 3.4 mile Metro Streetcar system, service most of the city. However, a car may be helpful for some of the more rural/residential routes. Note: Little Rock is very hot and humid in summer — take the right precautions!

Thanks to Noelle and the team at Fleet Feet Little Rock for their help with this guide!

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Chenal

Little Rock, AR

Pick any neighborhood in this section of Little Rock to run through quiet culs-de-sacs featuring grand houses. Chenal Valley Drive is a 5.6 km, sidewalked loop around the country club, and some of the other major streets also have long, runnable sidewalks.
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Little Rock has hot, humid summers and coolish winters. Runners will want to note that summer temps reach well into the 90s (34-35C), with sultry nights. So consider going early. Spring and fall are more pleasant. In winter, temperatures rise to near 50F (10C), though nights typically dip below freezing. Precipitation is evenly spread throughout the year.

Most hotels in Little Rock are conveniently located around River Market, or further south along I-30 and 1-440 (near the airport). There are also many options in west Little Rock, along I-430. See LittleRock.com for lodging options.

Little Rock has several great independent running stores, including Rock City Running, Go! Running, and Fleet Feet Little Rock.

There are also plenty of running groups. The Arkansas Running Klub collects membership dues, but holds regular runs and meetings. The Little Rock Road Runners host weekly group runs on Sundays at 6:30 am at War Memorial Park and on Thursdays at 6 pm starting from Go!Running. The also do a Tuesday night track workout.

Looking for road or trail races in this area? Find them on RaceRaves, the best online race calendar and reviews community for runners!

Find races in Little Rock, AR

Little Rock has its own marathon, and a number of good local races. Find upcoming races at runningintheusa.com. The Little Rock Marathon has won awards from RaceRaves.

This is another good calendar of Arkansas running events.