Whether you run, jog, or walk, ’tis the season for getting outdoors and breaking a light sweat without risk of heat stroke. Take advantage while you can!
The perks? Mama gets an hour of free exercise without needing childcare, baby gets a change of scenery, and on perfectly well-timed days we both get 30–60 minutes of silence. So, buckle that baby in, throw on your sneakers, and head to one of my favorite stroller-friendly running spots in our great city.
My Neighborhood
I don’t just mean my literal neighborhood. There are so many beautiful neighborhoods in this city, and what a great way to actually explore and experience them! As someone fairly new to Dallas, one of my favorite things to do is park my car at a neighborhood playground/park and combine a run through the neighborhood streets with playground time for my little one. You can look for running routes in the area on Map my Run or do a simple “out and back” route to minimize risk of getting lost.
Tip: Scope the area ahead of time from your car to avoid streets with construction or missing sidewalks.
Katy Trail
While this 3.5-mile trail is no stranger to safety concerns that foster some hypervigilance on my part, to me this is the quintessential big-city hike and bike trail. The mileage is perfectly marked, there are water fountains and pedestrian-only “lanes” at several points on the trail, and it’s hands down my favorite place to people watch and eavesdrop.
Tip: The best parking is off of Knox.
If your passenger is still awake after your jaunt, walk over to the Village Baking Co. on Travis (Knox-Henderson area) for a treat. You definitely deserve a French pastry or jambon-beurre after burning all those calories on the trail, and this spot is activewear-friendly and easy to visit with kids.
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
Who would have thought that the most beautiful multi-ecosystem nature trail is just a couple of miles west of the Tollway in Plano? This place is a gem and perfect for some serious outdoor time.
There are several looping routes to choose from, the biggest at almost 3 miles. Be prepared to see some wildlife and snap photos with idyllic backdrops! This trail is perfect for feeling like you’re quietly strolling through the woods, but with enough people around to make you feel safer.
Tip: There is a great playground at the trail head and oodles of picnic space. Pack a lunch and make an outing of it.
White Rock Lake
At almost 10 miles, this trail is breathtakingly beautiful and has a plethora of route options and parking spots. Postcard-perfect skyline scenes, sailboats, turtles, ducks, and lots of benches and stopping points to take a break, administer snacks, or just savor the views.
Tip: This trail runs along the backside of the Dallas Arboretum, perfect for a pre-run visit to get the kiddo tired and ready for a stroller nap.
Thinking about a bike ride or an extra-long run? This trail also meets the White Rock Creek trail (7.3 miles), making a 24-mile round trip (and making you my hero).
Northhaven Trail
Loaded with amenities, this neighborhood trail in North Dallas beautifies the electrical power line easement along it’s 2.5 miles. Drinking fountains and misting stations for hot days, a bike repair station, and cute rest areas to stop and take a breather.
Tip: Call in and grab lunch from Cindi’s Deli (at the eastbound end of the trail), and you are picnic ready!
What are your favorite spots in Dallas to run/jog/walk with your kiddo in tow?
Read More: 4 Best Places To Hike With Kids Near The Plano Area
