Health, Beauty & Fitness

Stay Fit for Free: Running in Las Vegas

Photo by Isaac Wendland

Whether traveling alone, with a partner, or with your dog, running in Las Vegas is a smart way to stay fit. From nature trails to city parks, there are paths, routes, and trails to help you stay in top shape — for free. 

Run the Strip

Running The Strip is a way to experience Las Vegas and take in all the sights and hotels that make the city famous. 

For the fewest crowds, head for the area around Caesars and the Venetian. You may need to cross the streets or trek through a building as you travel along the Strip, also known as Las Vegas Boulevard. 

Tip: Go early to stay clear of the heat and to avoid crowds. The west side of the sidewalk is wider and easier for running.

Las Vegas Blvd. & E. Harmon Avenue

If you want to run off the Strip, check out East Harmon. This run is a fun way to take roads that lead to the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) campus. The 350-acre campus has many pathways to explore.

Tip: The UNLV North Mall has a lot of trees and no traffic.

Old Las Vegas

Run through old downtown to get to know Las Vegas, off the Strip. Start on Fremont Street and take a trip down memory lane. You’ll find typical houses from the ’50s and 60’s. You can include the pedestrian mall at the Fremont Street Experience. 

Tip: Hop on a double-decker Deuce bus, operating 24/7. Use public transport to go from Fremont Street to the Strip —  an easy way to start or finish your run.

Photo by Fitsum Admasu

Sunset Park

This 300-acre park is located just a few miles from the Strip. You’ll find a 9-acre lake and plenty of trails to run. In addition to 3.5 miles of trails, there are perfect spots for a picnic. Check out the playgrounds, areas for fishing, disc golf, and volleyball courts. 

Sunset Park is at 2601 E. Sunset Rd., Las Vegas, NV.

Park hours are daily 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Red Rock Canyon

Head out of town for an iconic run in the Mojave Desert. This run is just 17 miles from the Strip, filled with stunning views and unbeatable desert light. 

The most popular trails include a 6-mile White Rock Loop and an 11-mile Grand Circle Loop. Expect the trail running to be hilly, and note that an entrance fee is required for the park’s most popular sections. Nature lovers recommend catching Red Rock Canyon while wildflowers are in bloom. Check the calendar to find out information and annual timing.

Tip: Check the Red Rock Canyon site to plan your trip.

Clark County Wetlands Park

This nature preserve is located a short 20-minute drive from the Strip. The North Loop is 8.5 miles, and an invitation to run on a paved trail through the wetlands. Enjoy immersing yourself in a natural setting of desert plants, wildlife, and stunning mountain views. 

The park is open daily from dawn to dusk, and entry is free.

Tip: Check the Wetlands Park website for notices and alerts.

Enjoy your trip to Las Vegas, stay fit, and go running!

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