Best Places to Run in Charleston, SC

Charleston, SC, has a big community of runners and is home to one of the largest running events in the world: the Cooper River Bridge Run. This means Charleston also has many great spots for both visiting and local runners to lace up their shoes, start their watches, and go for a run. Figuring out the best places to run in Charleston, SC, can be difficult because there are so many options. Use this guide to pick the best location for your next training session. 

Where to Go for a Run in Charleston, SC

The Charleston, SC, area features many different running trails and paths, all with stunning views of the Lowcountry’s natural landscape. 

Wherever you run, always make sure to bring proper hydration and nutrition, especially when running in hot Charleston summers. 

Hampton Park

Hampton Park is a local favorite. Runners, walkers, and cyclists enjoy both the gravel paths and one-mile loop around the park from sunrise to sunset, enjoying the shade and community atmosphere. 

Many local run groups use Hampton Park as a spot for speed work, utilizing both the gravel paths and paved one-mile loop. This is also a great spot because you can set up a “home base” with water, nutrition, and anything else you need for your run. Bathrooms are available onsite and parking is free. 

Additionally, the park is closed to traffic Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM and Saturdays from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM. The park is busier during these hours, especially Saturday morning, but not having to worry about traffic is a plus. 

After your run, check out some of the local businesses surrounding the park, including Sightsee Shop for a coffee.

Ravenel Bridge 

One of the most recognizable features of Charleston’s skyline, the Ravenel Bridge is also a prime location for your next run. Many local runners use the bridge as their “hill” workout because of Charleston’s flat terrain. Additionally, the Cooper River Bridge Run takes runners over the Ravenel, so it is often busy in the weeks leading up to the race.

Start your workout on the Mt. Pleasant side of the bridge at Waterfront Park, running toward downtown Charleston. The bridge spans about two miles from point-to-point. Some athletes choose to do an out-and-back while others prefer hill repeats. 

Whatever your workout, take a moment to pause at the top of the bridge and appreciate the stunning views of Charleston’s harbor and the peninsula. 

Shem Creek & The Old Village

The Shem Creek & The Old Village areas are perfect for runners looking to both tackle a long run and appreciate Charleston’s unique charm and history. Shem Creek, in particular, features a public bathroom and water fountain. When running through the Old Village, you will get to appreciate the historic homes, cemetery, as well as Pitt Street Bridge, which overlooks the marsh toward downtown Charleston.

Whether you have lived in Charleston for a while, are new to the area, or just visiting, we recommend checking out our partner Blue Sky Endurance. They host assisted long runs with routes through Shem Creek and The Old Village on Saturday mornings. The Blue Sky community is incredibly welcoming to runners of all speeds.

Laurel Hill County Park

Preparing for your next trail run? Want to spend some time in the woods? 

Laurel Hill County Park is one of our favorite places to run in Charleston, SC. Located in Mt. Pleasant and featuring several unpaved loop trails, there is a route for every runner. Local ultra- and trail-runners love this county park for its stunning views, ease of access, and well-marked paths. Home to Peyton’s Wild and Wacky Ultra, we often find ourselves hitting the trails at this place to run in Mt. Pleasant. 

Entry to the park is just $1, and goes to support maintaining Charleston County’s park system. The park is also well-known for its birdwatching and the one-of-a-kind Compass Course. 

The Battery 

No list of best places to run in Charleston would be complete with The Battery. This paved path along the Charleston Harbor takes runners through the city’s downtown, passing by distinct gardens and historic Southern homes. A favorite spot for tourists and locals alike, the paved path is about 1.2 miles long. 

After finishing your run, relax in White Point Garden or spend some time exploring all that Charleston’s downtown has to offer. 

How to Stay Strong & Injury Free as a Charleston, SC Runner 

Our physical therapists at 6:33 Physical Therapy are Charleston runners themselves, and know how to best support local runners. In our clinic, we specialize in helping athletes recover from and prevent future injury with a person-first, holistic approach. 

Are you are you a runner looking to overcome injury and get back to what you love? Schedule a free discovery call with our team. 

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