Would you be surprised that only 8% of New Year’s Resolutions are successfully achieved? (Seriously - we didn’t make that up.) Neither were we, but we all start out with good intentions, right!? Get motivated with these six strategically placed trails around St. Pete/Clearwater with awesome views and places to stop... we mean, take a quick break... along the way. Because working out is hard.
Get inspired by the historic fort as you traverse the seven-mile, paved trail. Ogle the pooches as you pass the dog park. Yes! Dogs are welcome here, should you be lucky enough to have one as a running buddy. You’ll also catch glimpses of some of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S.… so wear your swimsuit under those gym shorts to run directly into the Gulf of Mexico. It costs $5 to get into the park, but it’s totally worth it for a full day at this nationally recognized gem.
You’ll feel the funky beat even without your headphones in this quirky town. Park your car at Hammock Park then head south towards downtown Dunedin. As you get closer to Main Street you’ll see adorable shops, bars and restaurants. A few of our faves are Eli’s Bar-B-Que, Dunedin Brewery, and Café Alfresco. Take a detour going west on Main Street to Edgewater Park for a view of the Dunedin Marina. Remember, you’re here to exercise! It’s easy to get sidetracked.
To explore some of Clearwater’s prettiest parks, start at the Safety Harbor Marina and go south on the waterfront path running along Bayshore Blvd. Once you’ve landed at Kapok Park, get excited because you just hit 3 miles! Take a break to look for wildlife around Alligator Creek. Hint: swimming is not recommended. Treat yourself to retail therapy and good eats back at Safety Harbor’s oh-so-charming Main Street.
This sunny 9.5 mile trail runs along the entire southern side of the Courtney Campbell Causeway from Clearwater to Hillsborough County. The best part is the 45'-high bridge with panoramic views of Tampa Bay… these are Floridian hills, people! Follow the path to the Hillsborough side landing you on Rocky Point where you’ll find several scenic spots to grab lunch and a cold beverage before making your way back. Wear your sunscreen!
This popular waterfront path through downtown St. Pete is chock full ‘o local eye candy. Start at Albert Whitted Park to jump on the trail that leads you north past the Dali Museum and the St. Pete Pier. Thirsty already? Stop for a craft beer at Hops and Props at the St. Petersburg Museum of History. Get back on the path and continue to Coffee Pot Bayou; try not to drool over the homes in the Historic Old Northeast Neighborhood. On your way back, you probably won’t want to stop at Paciugo Gelato on Beach Drive. You’re right – you will.
Curb your sweet tooth with views of the sugar white sand along Clearwater Beach. Beach Walk winds along Coronado Drive from Pier 60 to the south end of the beach. You’ll be tempted with tons of shops, restaurants and bars dotted along the way. Sorry, not sorry? You’ll quickly see why this is one of America’s Best Beaches, so bring your beach gear to enjoyed it after your workout.
