When it comes to enjoying a jog or a run in St. Petersburg, Florida, there are plenty of excellent routes to choose from. These scenic paths not only offer a range of options but also provide a perfect way to explore the city and its surroundings. Let's dive into some of the best places to jog in or near St. Petersburg.

Fort Desoto - A Great Start

Fort DeSoto Park is a popular destination for joggers and runners due to its numerous trails and beautiful views. Start your jog at the entrance to Snell Isle from 22nd Avenue North, follow the shoreline to The Vinoy Hotel, and continue along the water until you reach the Dali Museum. This route offers a varied experience, including scenic lakes and historic areas.

Pinellas Trail - A Continuous Run

The Pinellas Trail is a continuous path that runs along the shoreline, making it perfect for jogging, walking, or biking. You can start your run at St. Pete Beach, enjoy the views of the water, and continue south. Another great route is along Bechtow Road, which runs through downtown St. Pete and provides a flat, easy path for a consistent jog.

North Town Option - Upper Tampa Bay Trail

For those looking to jog in the northern part of St. Petersburg, the Upper Tampa Bay Trail is an excellent choice. This trail is designed for both cyclists and joggers and covers a 4.6-mile stretch. It offers varied terrain and stunning views of Tampa Bay, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Downtown Opportunities - Beach Drive and Central Avenue

Heading downtown, Beach Drive and Vinoy Park are wonderful for jogging. Additionally, take the drag along Gandy Boulevard before the bridge for an extra scenic route. Central Avenue in Seminole Heights provides good tree cover, making it a pleasant option for a jog, and Lowry Park is another nice spot with spacious green areas.

Coffee Pot Park - The Perfect Starting Point

Coffee Pot Park is a popular starting point for many joggers. By parking here and jogging south along the waterfront, you can easily determine your distance. For longer runs, consider starting from there and heading north along 1st Street into Snell Isle. This route takes you through pretty neighborhoods and past the Vinoy Golf Course before returning to the waterfront.

Extended Running Routes

If you're feeling ambitious, you can follow the Pinellas Trail for a longer run. This trail stretches for 47 miles from 1st Avenue S and Bayshore Boulevard to Tarpon Springs. Other options include the pedestrian bridge out to the Skyway for a 4-mile run, Crescent Lake (0.9 miles), Northwest Park (0.9 miles), and the St. Joe's Creek Greenway (1.1 miles).

Waterfront Parks - The Best Running Location

The best place to run in St. Petersburg by far is along the waterfront parks of Tampa Bay. My favorite route is to start from Coffee Pot Bayou, jog south along the wide and winding waterfront sidewalks to Gandy Pier, and then turn around. This route is 6.4 miles long, and if you turn around at the public restrooms, you have a straight 3-mile run.

Additionally, I enjoy running the Pinellas Trail, particularly the northern sections. The beaches can be less appealing for jogging due to the high traffic, but the trail offers a quiet and peaceful experience. Whether you're looking for a quick jog or a longer run, St. Petersburg has plenty of options to make your jogging experience unforgettable.