Glendale/Peoria

Glendale and Peoria make up the majority of the suburbs to the northeast of Phoenix. Here, you’ll find many great multi-use paths and nature parks.

Thunderbird Paseo Park: It’s technically part of the Arizona Canal Trail, but it’s impossible to talk about running in Glendale without pointing out the Thunderbird Paseo Park! This is a linear park trail with a nice layer of green around otherwise dry desert terrain.

Arrowhead Lakes: Take a running tour of the grand homes at Arrowhead Lakes, tucked into the foothills of Thunderbird Conservation Park, just north of Highway 101. 

New River and Skunk Creek Trails: The New River Trail is a a wide concrete pathway along the New River, from Glendale Ave. north for 7 miles to Rio Vista Community Park. There, the path turns into the Skunk Creek Trail, which heads north and east for another 2.5 miles to N 75th Ave. There, one can continue on the Arizona Canal Trail for many miles. The nicest section of New River/Skunk Creek Trails are the ~3 miles from Rio Vista Community Park heading north.  ROUTE MAP

White Tank Mountain Regional Park: A large nature area on the far west side of the Phoenix suburbs is popular for hiking. The best gentle options for running is the Maricopa/Mule Deer Trail, starting at the White Tank Library. Another good option is to drive to the Waterfall Canyon Trailhead and run the 2 miles out and back. There are also many challenging trails in the park.