Looking for scenic walking trails? Check out 6 hotspots in Stanislaus County
Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to get out and get active?
In a recent Modesto Reddit thread, user Some_Acanthaceae_688 asked: “Where do you guys like to go on runs?”
“I normally run around my neighborhood, but I’m getting tired of it,” Some_Acanthaceae_688 wrote.
If you’re feeling the same way, the Modesto area offers several scenic places to mix up your routine and get moving — from hiking and jogging to biking and skating.
As part of this month’s Bee Curious, a community-driven series where reporters answer reader questions about the Modesto region, our journalists put together a list of local spots that are great for running or walking.
Here are some scenic routes in Stanislaus County to check out:
Where can you find running trails in Modesto?
Dry Creek Trail
Dry Creek Trail is a popular spot for runners looking for a scenic route, according to AllTrails, a website that helps people find hiking, biking and running trails.
“The route follows a paved path that winds through a narrow stretch of woods beside a full, flowing creek,” AllTrails said.
Tall oak trees line much of the 13.5-mile path, providing plenty of shade with a few sunny stretches mixed in.
The trail begins near the intersection of Gomes Road and Claus Road in Modesto, according to the city website.
Virginia Corridor Trailway
The Virginia Corridor Trailway is a 4.2-mile path that follows the former Tidewater Southern Railway line, according to the city of Modesto.
It stretches from Needham Avenue to Bangs Avenue in Modesto.
“With numerous amenities, such as picnic areas, shade structures, barbecues and gardens, the Virginia Corridor Trailway is quickly becoming a favorite destination,” the city said.
Along the route, runners and walkers will find benches and some shaded areas.
According to AllTrails, the trail also includes a few road crossings and occasional bollards in the middle of the path, so travelers should stay alert while moving through those sections.
Tuolumne River Trail
The Tuolumne River Trail is a winding path that follows the river through Modesto, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by nature, according to TrailLink.
“The scenic trail captures the true beauty of the region’s landscape as it loops through dense riverside woodlands,” the trails website said.
The trail also connects to Tuolumne River Regional Park, making it a popular spot for walking, running and enjoying the outdoors, according to the city of Modesto.
On the north side of the loop, the path runs close to the Modesto City–County Airport for those who enjoy watching planes take off and land.
The trail can be accessed near 1080 South Morton Blvd. in Modesto.
Where are popular walking trails in Stanislaus County?
Knights Ferry
Knights Ferry is a historic Gold Rush town along the Stanislaus River, just outside Oakdale.
It’s a popular spot for walking, running, hiking and rafting, according to its website.
Visitors can explore scenic river trails, old mill ruins, a local museum and a general store that offers a glimpse into California’s past.
If you plan to park in the area, there is a $10 day-use fee per vehicle.
City of Waterford River Trail
Former life science teacher Elaine Gorman, who retired in 2009 after spending 24 years at Mark Twain and Roosevelt junior high schools in Modesto, recently published “Valley Ventures.”
The guidebook features 20 hiking trails located within two hours of the Modesto area.
One trail Gorman highlights in “Valley Ventures” is the City of Waterford River Trail, also known as the Tuolumne River Parkway, along the Tuolumne River.
Gorman said the trail is an easy two-mile walk, or four miles round trip.
The trail blends modern features — such as an outdoor exercise course and educational nature signs — with bird-watching opportunities, The Modesto Bee previously reported.
Turlock Canal Bike Path
The Turlock Canal Bike Path runs alongside the canal that cuts east to west through the city of Turlock.
The paved trail starts at Oak Street on the west end of town and stretches about half a mile beyond the city to North Verduga Road, according to AllTrails.
Parking is easiest near the trail’s west end, where a large public lot is located across the canal from Crane Park, 1555 East Canal Drive in Turlock.
“Walkers, runners, cyclists and commuters use this bike path year-round,” AllTrails said.
