Lead-in highlight text:  From scenic paths to local race events, find the best spots to train, explore, and connect with the running community in your new hometown.

Running is one of the best ways to stay active, explore your surroundings, and connect with like-minded individuals in your new community. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, a casual jogger, or just looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors, the Akron-Canton area offers an incredible range of running trails, group meetups, and race events to keep you motivated.

With scenic routes that wind through metro parks, dedicated running clubs that welcome all paces, and local shops offering expert gear recommendations, there’s no shortage of resources to help you find your stride. Whether you prefer peaceful, wooded trails, vibrant city routes, or the energy of a group run, this guide will point you toward the best places to start.

The Akron-Canton area is home to an extensive network of trails and running paths, offering a mix of paved roads, crushed limestone trails, and rugged nature paths. Whether you’re training for a race or just enjoying a leisurely jog, here are some must-visit routes:

These trails provide a mix of open scenery, shaded forest routes, and varying elevations—making them ideal for runners of all levels. Whether you enjoy an early morning solo run or an afternoon jog with a friend, these locations offer the perfect setting.

Running with a group can help improve consistency, build friendships, and add a social element to your training. The Akron-Canton area has a thriving running community with clubs that meet weekly for group runs, structured workouts, and race training.

Some of the most popular groups include:

Whether you're looking for a structured training program or just an occasional running buddy, joining a local group can make running more enjoyable and help you stay accountable.

Before hitting the trails, make sure you have the right gear to keep you comfortable and injury-free. Local specialty running stores in the Akron-Canton area provide expert shoe fittings, high-quality apparel, and accessories to enhance your performance.

Some top spots to check out include:

Getting properly fitted for running shoes can help prevent injuries and ensure you’re comfortable on long runs. Local stores often have knowledgeable staff who can analyze your gait and recommend the best shoes for your needs.

If you enjoy setting goals and pushing your limits, signing up for a local race is a great way to stay motivated. The Akron Marathon Race Series is one of the most well-known race events in the region, offering distances that range from 5Ks to full marathons. Designed to fit an 18-week training plan, this series provides a great opportunity for runners of all levels to challenge themselves and celebrate their progress.

Beyond the Akron Marathon, the Akron-Canton area hosts a variety of races throughout the year, including charity runs, themed fun runs, and endurance challenges. Whether you're looking for a serious race or just a fun event to participate in with friends, there’s something for everyone.

The local running community is welcoming, diverse, and filled with opportunities to connect, train, and explore. Whether you prefer running solo, joining a group, or signing up for a local race, there’s a place for you here.

So lace up your shoes, hit the pavement or trails, and start discovering everything the Akron-Canton area has to offer for runners. With so many resources and a strong community of passionate runners, you’ll be finding your new favorite running spot in no time!