Top-tier running paths in Graz city
Graz, the second-largest city in Austria, is a haven for runners of all levels. With its diverse selection of running trails, the city caters to beginners, intermediate runners, and seasoned athletes alike. Here's a guide to the best running trails in Graz and its surrounding Bezirk Graz-Umgebung.
For Easy Running Trails
Ideal for beginners or those seeking shorter, relaxed runs, there are several easy routes around Bezirk Graz-Umgebung. These range approximately from 3 to 7 km and include gentle terrains suitable for family-friendly outings and newcomers to running. Examples include the Kraftwerkrunde, a 5.8km easy trail that is well signposted and flat, and can be reached from the main train station. Another option is the Murradweg, which allows for a self-determined length run with mostly paved roads, and is close to the STUWO Student City.
For Intermediate Runners
Intermediate trails tend to have longer distances (approximately 6 to 9 miles) and more challenging elevation changes. They offer a balance suitable for runners looking for a good workout with varied terrains and scenic natural surroundings around Graz. The Straßgang Loop, a 5.7km long, easy trail that starts at Bad Straßgang, is an example of such a trail.
For Expert/Advanced Runners
Expert routes are longer and physically demanding with elevation gain, including distances up to about 9.5 miles. These trails provide intense training opportunities through the beautiful Styrian hills and forests near Graz, perfect for seasoned trail runners seeking elevation and distance challenges. The Lineckberg running route, 10.4km long and with a moderate difficulty level due to unpaved and uphill roads, is an example of such a trail.
Special Interests and Scenic Highlights
Graz is known for its green spaces and woodlands; around 60% of the city is designated green space, offering wooded trails, parks, and forest paths. The St. Peter district features the Grazer Urwald, a private urban forest open to the public, providing tranquil trail running options immersed in nature. The Waltendorf district lies close to farmlands and pastures, where easy running trails through fields with livestock near Schloss Lustbühel offer a rustic and pastoral environment for runners who enjoy rural scenery and gentle inclines.
Summary Table of Runner Levels and Trail Features
| Difficulty Level | Distance Range | Terrain | Notable Areas | |------------------|-----------------------|---------------------------------|----------------------------------| | Easy | ~3 to 7 km (2.78 to 5.97 miles) | Mostly flat, family-friendly, gentle inclines | Bezirk Graz-Umgebung, Schloss Lustbühel area[1][3][5] | | Intermediate | ~6 to 9 miles (8.23 to 8.82 miles) | Varied terrain, moderate elevation | Surrounding areas of Graz[1] | | Expert | ~2.4 to 9.5 miles (2.36 to 9.52 miles) | Challenging elevation, longer routes | Styrian hills and forests near Graz[1] | | Scenic/Nature Focus | Urban forests, green spaces, rural farmland | Trails through Grazer Urwald and pastures | Districts St. Peter, Waltendorf[5] |
These trails and running areas can be explored in detail via Komoot, a platform with user reviews, photos, and navigation aids confirming their suitability for various running preferences and skill levels[1][3].
In addition to these trails, Graz hosts several running events throughout the year. The Inner-City Run Graz is a 15km long trail with a moderate difficulty level, starting from the STUWO dormitories. The Grazathlon, a running event that includes more than 10km and 20 obstacles for participants to overcome, takes place in early summer[2]. For those seeking a New Year's Eve run, the New Year's Eve's Run Graz offers participants the choice of 5 or 10km runs on New Year's Eve[3]. The Graz Marathon is a sports event in Graz where participants can complete 42.195km, a half-marathon, or a quarter-marathon[4]. The Half-Marathon Graz takes place in spring and offers participants the choice of 21.1km, 10.55km, or 5.25km[4].
Whether you're a casual runner or a seasoned athlete, Graz offers a diverse range of running trails from easy family-friendly paths to expert mountain trail runs, with access to urban forests and countryside landscapes that suit all kinds of runners and interests.
[1] Komoot - www.komoot.com [2] Grazathlon - www.grazathlon.at [3] New Year's Eve's Run Graz - www.silvesterlauf-graz.at [4] Graz Marathon - www.grazmarathon.at [5] STUWO Smart Living - Located near the main train station in Graz.
Sports enthusiasts seeking a family-friendly running trail can opt for the Kraftwerkrunde, a well-signposted and flat 5.8km route in Bezirk Graz-Umgebung, ideal for beginners and newcomers to running. For those looking for a more challenging workout, the Straßgang Loop, a 5.7km intermediate trail with varied terrains and scenic surroundings, is a great choice. Both trails are part of the diverse range of running trails Graz has to offer, appealing to all levels of runners and interests.
