Ditch the hamster wheel treadmill and hit the ground running with our list of the best running trails in Singapore.
Singapore might be full of skyscrapers but it’s called a garden city for a reason. From hidden green spaces to nature trails to serene parks, we can always lace up for a little sweat session amidst lush foliage. So whether you’re a beginner in running or a seasoned marathon participant, let these running trails in Singapore help you reach that runner’s high.
Top running trails in Singapore
1. MacRitchie Nature Trail
Run into the wild at MacRitchie Nature Trail. The 11km running trail is made up of uneven terrain, from dirt tracks and grassy banks to boardwalks and smooth pavements. Oh, and do keep a lookout for monkeys, monitor lizards, flying lemurs and even owls. This one is definitely for those who like to get down and dirty.
2. Bedok Reservoir Park
This park is best for early morning or late evening runs; it’s a scorcher when the sun is up. The running trail encircles around the reservoir, providing you with picturesque waterfront views. One loop is about 4km, so you know you will be clocking in a decent workout session. Once you’re done, cool down at one of the benches and take in the lush green views of the vicinity.
3. East Coast Park
Stretching over 15km, East Coast Park makes for an ideal running spot. Plus, you get stunning views of the ocean to distract you from the inevitable pain of running. It’s also shady during the day and well-lit at night, making it a great route for both early birds and night owls.
4. Fort Canning Park
A stone’s throw away from Singapore’s busiest shopping district, Fort Canning Park offers a respite from all the hustle and bustle. The running trail is slightly challenging as it will take you along uphill paths – it’s called a hill for a reason. After your run, explore the leafy grounds which hold nuggets of historical information. For instance, the rundown fort gate is a remnant of the fortress built in the 1860s.
5. Punggol Park Connector
This 6.1km riverside trail, stretching from Gerald Drive to Punggol Waterway Park, is an oasis of tranquillity. Make your way there a little before sundown to be blessed with paddle pop skies. It’s the ultimate spectacular sight when you achieve that runner’s high.
6. Southern Ridges Trail
If you’re a seasoned runner, hit up the Southern Ridges Trail, a 10km circuit that connects three parks. It’s an uphill battle, but you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views as you cross Henderson Waves Bridge and when you reach the top of Mount Faber Park and Kent Ridge Park.
7. Marina Bay
Change things up by running along the concrete pavements of Marina Bay. Granted, there are no leafy surroundings. Instead, the 10km trail lets you soak in the glitzy skyline of MBS and ArtScience Museum alongside the lush, space-age landscape of Gardens by the Bay. If you’re lucky, you might just run into the Marina otters. Who said you can’t catch wildlife in the city?
8. Gardens by the Bay
This is another superb running option: you get great views of the waterfront, supertrees and sculptures. Here’s an insider tip: continue your run through Marina Barrage, Bay East Garden and National Stadium for glorious sights. Imagine all that wrapped up in pastel-hued skies in the evening.
9. Singapore Botanic Gardens
How can we write a list of running trails without including the OG of our parks? Named a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2015, Singapore Botanic Gardens is our nation’s pride and joy. As you run through the 150-year-old park, you will come across wildlife, rare orchids and charming gardens, making the steep slopes, uneven surfaces and several looping side trails bearable.
10. Changi Beach Park
This coastal park is your best bet if you’re looking to get away from the ECP crowd. While running along the 3.3km stretch, keep an eye out for aeroplanes landing and taking off. For post-run fuel, you can always count on the nearby Changi Village Hawker Centre.
Who’s ready to break a sweat at one of these running trails in Singapore?
