Have you ever heard the term “runner’s high?” It’s a state of euphoria following a run, created by a rush of endorphins in the brain. Experiencing a runner’s high is closely associated with running outdoors, especially during the day.

This makes perfect sense, as we already know sunlight and fresh air offer a host of health benefits, both mental and physical. Want to improve your focus, make quicker, more sound decisions, thwart cravings, and generally be in a better mood? Go for a run. Better yet, go for a run outside. 

Even if you already enjoy running and do it frequently, the same old scenery can quickly get old, whether it’s a treadmill or your neighborhood. Fortunately, the United States has a ton of fantastic running trails, ranging from easy urban loops to challenging backcountry paths. 

To give you some inspiration to very literally get out there and start pounding some pavement, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best running trails in America. Keep in mind, this list barely scratches the surface of all the incredible trails in the US – but it’s a great start.

Trail Running Basics

Despite having a very technical-sounding title, trail running is simply the practice of running on a trail in nature. It does not have to include scrambling over rocks or being in the mountains, though it often does. Trail running can mean you’re in your own neighborhood, in the middle of a major city, or miles and miles away from civilization. If you’re outside, running on a trail, you’re trail running. 

Like traditional or “regular” running, you don’t need to have much special equipment or advanced skills to trail run. There are a few pieces of gear that will enhance your trail running experience, however. 

• A high-quality, durable pair of trail running shoes
• A hydration vest or lightweight hiking backpack to stay hydrated
• A headlamp for those early-morning and late-night runs
• A pair of running gloves to help regulate your body temperature

It wasn’t easy picking just 10 of America’s best running trails to include in this guide. We selected trails that are not just unbelievably scenic but are also unique in some way and provide a challenging run.