Words by Carlie Tucker
Spring is well and truly on its way, making now the perfect time to dust off those running shoes to get out and about in Adelaide. Whether you're travelling to the South Australia capital for work, or you're a local looking for some convenient running routes, here are five running trails that are perfect for working up a sweat.
Image courtesy of weekendnotes.com
The Sweat Track (2kms)
Aptly named, this running route is a convenient spot to get the ol' heart rate up. It's located a mere six minutes from the heart of the city along the edge of Victoria Park. It's mostly flat, which is great for beginners or those looking for some light exercise, and it offers a choice of grass or paved running surfaces. What's better is that there are fitness stations along the track if you want to add a little extra challenge to your run.
Pros:
- Great inner city location is easy for lunch or after work runs
- Fitness stations provide a little extra challenge
Cons:
- A popular choice for locals that can get busy
- Relatively short distance along a flat track doesn't offer much challenge for advanced runners
Uni Loop (2.2kms)
As a well-established track in the city, this 2.2 kilometre circuit calls to fitness buffs of all ages. While it may be flat, it is lined with trees and offers engaging parkland views. Starting along Mackinnon Parade and running along War Memorial Drive, its close proximity to the city is hard to beat. The unsealed trail also runs near the Adelaide Zoo, so keep your years open for the lions roaring!
Pros:
- Close to the city
- 200m markers to track your progress
Cons:
- One of the more popular tracks, so go early in the morning if you like to run alone
Torrens Parkrun (5kms)
Taking place every Saturday, the Torrens Parkrun invites runners to participate in a timed run along the river. It's completely free to join and a great chance to get out with locals to participate in a community event. Though, if you're not going to be in the city on the weekend, the route is still open to runners through the week. Starting at Torrens Lake Weir, the paved paths run along the river for 2.5 kilometres before you double back to the start line.
Pros:
- Great community event and a chance to meet other runners
- Established track that has been professionally measured
Cons:
- Running event only takes place on Saturdays
Image courtesy of Getty
River Torrens Linear Park Trail (various distances)
A veritable playground for those that love to run, this park offers a number of trails that stretch from the seaside to the Adelaide Hills. It passes through the city and takes in a number of the area's best scenery. Whether you want to break a sweat with a four kilometre jaunt or test your skills on a 12 kilometre challenge, you'll find a trail to suit your fitness level. It's also home to the Torrens Parkrun every Saturday (see above).
Pros:
- Various distances cater to all fitness levels
- Variety of backdrops to keep you engaged while you go
Cons:
- Involves some light research to plan your route
Image courtesy of heysentrail.asn.au
Heysen Trail (various distances)
The Heysen Trail is perfect for those looking for a change of scenery. Starting approximately 30 minutes outside of the city, it's a 1,200 kilometre stretch of trails that pass through some of the area's most picturesque locations with a chance to see native flora and fauna. Whether you want to run along rolling foothills, pass through meadows or traverse the native bushland, this unsealed path will take you there. The tracks and distances vary, so your workout level really depends on just how far you want to run.
Pros:
- Multiple trails offer plenty of variety
- Distances to suit all fitness levels
- Beautiful outdoor scenery to keep you engaged
Cons:
- Located outside of the city
- Involves some light research to plan your route
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