From its perch on the banks of the Arkansas River, Wichita is the largest city in Kansas. This Kiowa territory became known as a “Cowtown” along the Chisholm Trail, then entered the modern age as a hub for aeronautics. Today, the city is a hotspot for manufacturing and healthcare businesses, and a destination for music-lovers, museum-goers, and sightseers. There is a good variety of running in Wichita, from lovely river paths to parks and extensive multi-use trails.
The signature running spot in Wichita is the Arkansas River Path along the downtown waterfront. Runners will find other good multi- use trails in the K 96 Path, the Prairie Sunset Trail, and the Red Bud Trail. Noteworthy Wichita neighborhoods to run include College Hill and Riverside, and there is also good park running in Sedgwick County Park and Chisholm Creek Park. For a one-of-a-kind art tour, run the strip of the Douglas Design District which hosts more than 50 murals. Locals say the terrain in Wichita is notoriously “flat and fast.”
Getting around the flat streets of Wichita is pretty easy. Most travelers choose to drive, but the small city offers other public transportation, including a cheap (but somewhat limited) bus system, a bike share program, and a free downtown trolley. For travel outside of the downtown area, a car is recommended. Also, be prepared for winter weather that can be harsh and thunderstorm-prone summer afternoons.
