The paths along Onondaga Lake are among the signature running spot in Syracuse. The large lake is located just north of Syracuse, squeezed between I-90 and I-690. Although one can’t do a full loop of the lake, Restoration Way is a paved multi-use path that runs along both the eastern and western sides of the lake for nearly 8 miles.
West side path. Author photo.
On the eastern side of the lake, it’s 3 miles between Onondaga Lake Park and the University of Syracuse Boathouse. This is a popular 10k out and back, with nice water views nearly the whole way! You can also continue on the western side of the lake, where the path tends to be a bit inland and more wooded, although there are some sections where a secondary path runs closer to the water. The western side path is 4.5 miles between the Onondaga Lake Visitors Center and Long Branch Park. St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview Point is 1.5 miles from the Visitor Center.
The paths along Onondaga Lake are among the signature running spot in Syracuse. The large lake is located just north of Syracuse, squeezed between I-90 and I-690. Although one can’t do a full loop of the lake, Restoration Way is a paved multi-use path that runs along both the eastern and western sides of the lake for nearly 8 miles.
West side path. Author photo.
On the eastern side of the lake, it’s 3 miles between Onondaga Lake Park and the University of Syracuse Boathouse. This is a popular 10k out and back, with nice water views nearly the whole way! You can also continue on the western side of the lake, where the path tends to be a bit inland and more wooded, although there are some sections where a secondary path runs closer to the water. The western side path is 4.5 miles between the Onondaga Lake Visitors Center and Long Branch Park. St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview Point is 1.5 miles from the Visitor Center.
Scroll Down For Route Maps
Essentials
The path is 7.8 miles overall. ~3 miles on the eastern side and ~5 miles on the western side
166 feet (one-way)
Eastern side: Onondaga Lake Park; Western side: Parking lot near Visitor Center
Numerous access points. There are parking lots at Onondaga Lake Park and near the Visitor Center
This route incorporates the central section of Syracuse downtown with the pleasant creekside trail that runs along Onandaga Creek and the Inner Harbor, ending at Onandaga Lake. For a longer run, combine with our University route.
This route is one of our favorites in Syracuse, combining Thornden Park, the attractive campus of Syracuse University, historic Oakwood Cemetery, and the bucolic Eastside neighborhood. Use our 6.8 mile route or create your own!
A pleasant run in the Southside and Strathmore neighorhoods south of downtown, featuring Onondaga Park, two small reservoir loops, and pleasant residential streets.
Many miles of scenic running on the Erie Canal Towpath in the Syracuse area. We've mapped a 10.6 mile eastern section from Dewitt to Chittenango Landing, combination paved and stone dust. Green Lakes State Park is good add-on.
Great spot for some gentle trail running, located 10 miles east of downtown. There are 15+ miles of trails through woods and around two glacial lakes. Can combine with a section of the Erie Canal Towpath.
Runners can enjoy many miles of the Erie Canal Towpath in the Syracuse area. We've mapped a 12-mile western section from Camillus to Jordan on a stone dust surface. The path continues a further 8 miles west to Port Byron, then is on-road.
Park located 15 miles south of Syracuse is known for its 137-foot waterfall and is a good spot for trail running. The two main trails are the 2.6 mile North Rim Trail and the 1.2 mile West Branch Trail.
Beaver Lake Nature Center, located 15 miles northwest of Syracuse, is a worth-it destination run. There are 9 miles of trails around the 200-acre glacial lake, featuring a lovely combination of woods, meadows, and lake views.
Share your feedback on this route and see that of other Great Runs users. Click on the image icon to upload a photo. And please let us know if there are notes or changes we should incorporate!
Subscribe
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Essentials
The path is 7.8 miles overall. ~3 miles on the eastern side and ~5 miles on the western side
166 feet (one-way)
Eastern side: Onondaga Lake Park; Western side: Parking lot near Visitor Center
Numerous access points. There are parking lots at Onondaga Lake Park and near the Visitor Center
Review or Comment on This Route/Share a Photo!
Share your feedback on this route and see that of other Great Runs users. Click on the image icon to upload a photo. And please let us know if there are notes or changes we should incorporate!