Best running trails on the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most popular destinations for those who love the outdoors, and running is no exception. With its stunning beaches, lush forests, and picturesque parklands, the Gold Coast offers a wide range of running trails for runners of all levels. Here are some of the best running trails on the Gold Coast.

Burleigh Heads National Park

Burleigh Head National Park is one of the Gold Coast’s most popular destinations for runners. The park offers a 2.5 km rainforest circuit that takes runners through lush vegetation, over rocky headlands, and along the stunning coastline. The circuit is relatively easy and is suitable for runners of all levels.

Tallebudgera Creek

Tallebudgera Creek is a great place to run for those who want to combine running with swimming. The creek is a popular spot for both swimming and stand-up paddleboarding, and runners can take advantage of the clear waters to cool off after their run. The trail along the creek is relatively flat and is suitable for runners of all levels.

Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area

Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area is a beautiful natural area that offers a range of trails for runners. The area features a variety of habitats, including wetlands, woodlands, and mangroves, making it a great place to spot wildlife. The trails are relatively flat and are suitable for runners of all levels.

Currumbin Valley Rock Pools

The Currumbin Valley Rock Pools are a hidden gem on the Gold Coast. The trail to the rock pools is relatively short but challenging, with steep inclines and uneven terrain. The reward for the effort is the stunning rock pools themselves, which offer a refreshing place to cool off after the run.

Springbrook National Park

Springbrook National Park is a beautiful natural area that offers a range of trails for runners. The park features stunning waterfalls, lush rainforests, and panoramic views of the Gold Coast. The trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging, so runners of all levels can find a suitable route.

Broadwater Parklands

Broadwater Parklands is a popular destination for runners and walkers on the Gold Coast. The park offers a scenic 3 km loop around the stunning Broadwater, with views of the Surfers Paradise skyline in the distance. The trail is flat and suitable for runners of all levels.

The Spit

The Spit is a narrow strip of land that extends into the ocean from Main Beach. The area offers a range of trails for runners, including a 10 km round trip to the end of the Spit and back. The trail is relatively flat and offers stunning views of the ocean and the Gold Coast skyline.

The Gold Coast Oceanway

The Gold Coast Oceanway is a 36 km shared pathway that runs along the stunning Gold Coast coastline. The pathway is flat and suitable for runners of all levels, and offers stunning views of the ocean and the Gold Coast skyline. The pathway is divided into 4 sections, each with its own unique scenery and landmarks.

Pizzey Park

Pizzey Park is a popular destination for runners and walkers on the Gold Coast. The park offers a range of trails, including a 2.5 km circuit around the stunning lake. The trail is relatively flat and suitable for runners of all levels.

Hinze Dam

Hinze Dam is a beautiful natural area that offers a range of trails for runners. The area features stunning views of the dam and the surrounding mountains, and the trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging. The area is also a popular destination for mountain biking and hiking.


In conclusion, the Gold Coast offers a wide range of running trails for runners and something for all fitness types.


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