Running and Walking

Running and walking are two of the best and easiest ways to explore a city and get some exercise, so it's no surprise that if you're visiting Albany you might like to go for a run or a walk.

Trails

The City of Albany maintains a number of great pedestrian trails:

• Try the paved Dave Clark Trail (1.5 miles one-way) for a pleasant riverfront route that will take you near parks, a historic carousel, two breweries and a community garden.
• The Waverly Park trail is a short route (.70 mile) that loops around Waverly Lake, home to a flock of geese and ducks and known for its paddleboats in the summer. Cross Salem Road to connect to trails at Simpson Park (2.36 miles one-way) and the Talking Water Gardens (50 acre site) for longer options.
• The Periwinkle Creek Trail runs along Periwinkle Creek through the center of Albany, connecting Grand Prairie Park with the Albany Boys and Girls Club. (3.61 miles round trip).

Races

If you like being part of an event, Albany is home to a number of fun runs and walks each year. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, check with race organizers for changes in dates and times.

One of the most popular races is the Oregon Mid-Valley Road Race, held every year on Thanksgiving Day.

In Lebanon, the Cheadle Challenge in November takes participants on an adventure course that includes wall climbs and other obstacles. In Sweet Home, you can bike, run or swim at the Best in the West Triathlon series.

Clubs

Albany is home to several active walking clubs. The Albany Fitwalkers host regular outdoor walks several times a week and organizes walking trips around the state. Friends-in-Fitness meets at the Heritage Mall every morning to walk laps in a warm, dry environment.

To learn more about running in the Albany-Corvallis area, check out the Heart of the Valley Runners in Corvallis.