Chiang Mai is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. While most people come for the hiking and mountain biking, the city also offers some of the most scenic and re...
Chiang Mai is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. While most people come for the hiking and mountain biking, the city also offers some of the most scenic and rewarding running routes in Thailand. Whether you are looking for a flat, social loop around a lake or a grueling mountain climb that tests your limits, Chiang Mai has it all. Just remember that the best time to run is early in the morning or just before sunset to avoid the midday heat and the worst of the city's traffic.
The Chiang Mai University (CMU) Reservoir, often called "Ang Kaew," is perhaps the most popular spot for a casual run. It is a beautiful, peaceful lake surrounded by trees with a stunning backdrop of the Doi Suthep mountain. The path around the reservoir is flat and paved, making it perfect for an easy recovery run or some intervals. It is a very social spot, especially in the evenings when you will see hundreds of students, locals, and expats exercising and enjoying the sunset. The energy here is wonderful, and the air feels noticeably cooler and fresher than in the city center.
If you are looking for a longer, more immersive nature run, Huay Tung Tao Lake is a must-visit. Located just a 15-minute drive from Nimman, this massive reservoir is surrounded by a 4-kilometer paved loop. If you prefer trail running, there are also several well-marked paths that branch off into the surrounding forest and hills. Running here feels like a true escape from the city. After your run, you can grab a fresh coconut or a healthy Thai meal at one of the many bamboo huts that line the water's edge.
For those who want to stay close to the heart of the action, a run around the Old City Moat is a quintessential Chiang Mai experience. The total loop is about 6.5 kilometers and takes you past ancient city walls, historic gates, and dozens of beautiful temples. While you do have to deal with some traffic and smog, it is a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective. I recommend doing this route very early—around 6 AM—to catch the city as it wakes up and to avoid the worst of the exhaust fumes.
If you are a serious runner looking for a challenge, nothing beats the climb up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This is a legendary route among local athletes. Starting from the zoo at the base of the mountain, it is a relentless uphill climb of about 11 kilometers to the temple at the top. The incline is steep and the humidity can be punishing, but the views from the summit and the sense of accomplishment are well worth the effort. There are several rest stops and water stations along the way, and the road is generally in good condition.
Running in Chiang Mai is as much about the community as it is about the exercise. There are several active running clubs in the city that organize weekly meetups and events. Joining one of these groups is a great way to discover new routes and meet like-minded people. Whether you are training for a marathon or just want to stay active during your travels, the varied landscapes of Chiang Mai provide the perfect backdrop for your miles.
