Running in Georgia: Where to Run in McDonough

There are many reasons to love McDonough, but one of the most appealing reasons for runners is the picturesque Atlanta running paths and trails in the area. McDonough is located in Henry County, just 30 minutes south of Atlanta and has a small-town feel with a strong sense of community. Whether you’re in town visiting, you’ve just moved to McDonough, or you’re just looking to get out there and explore, running is a surefire way to discover a welcoming community and the best running trails in Atlanta.

In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the best running trails in the Atlanta, GA area, as well as some great running groups we recommend checking out!

Running Trails and Paths in Atlanta

Whether you're looking for a scenic trail or a paved path, you'll find it in McDonough. From the historic downtown to stunning parks, here are the running paths in Atlanta that we think you should check out.

Alexander Park West

Alexander Park West is a 40-acre park located in McDonough. The park offers a beautiful and scenic running trail perfect for runners of all levels. The trail is mostly flat and zigzags through the park's forest. Alexander Park West is known for its beautiful azalea garden, which is especially beautiful in the spring. 

The park has a 1.5-mile walking trail and a 1.5-mile running trail. These running trails in the Atlanta area are perfect for runners and walkers of all levels. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned runner, the trails are perfect for a quick run or a longer run! There’s even a concession stand picnic area that is perfect for refueling. 

The park is located at 300 Atlanta St, McDonough, GA 30253. 

McDonough Square

The McDonough Square is a popular area for runners and walkers. The square is located in the heart of downtown McDonough and is home to a variety of shops and restaurants. The square's beautiful architecture and charming atmosphere make it a great place to go for a run. 

It’s also surrounded by a variety of residential neighborhoods, making it the perfect place to go for a run or a walk. 

The square is located at 5 Griffin St, McDonough, GA 30253. 

Highway 42 Loop

The Highway 42 loop is another popular area for runners. The loop is 2.5 miles long and is located on the north side of McDonough. This loop is the perfect running trail in Atlanta for runners and walkers of all levels since it is mostly flat. It’s a great place to go for a quick run and has a large shoulder area, providing a safe space for runners and walkers to enjoy the loop, without the worry of traffic.

Where to Meet Runners in McDonough, Atlanta GA Area

McDonough is home to a variety of running trails in Atlanta, making it a go-to meeting spot for both running and walking groups. These groups are a great way to connect with other runners and walkers in the area. Whether you're new to running or you've been running for years, joining a running group is a great way to stay motivated and connect with other runners.

Newsole Running

At Newsole Running, we’re a locally owned running store that does a lot more than sell running shoes. We help our customers find their perfect fit through advanced technology and our team is dedicated to providing runners with the best running shoes and gear. We offer a variety of running shoes, apparel, and accessories, as well as running gear like hydration packs and nutrition. We also offer expert shoe fitting, including free gait analysis and evaluation of your foot type, anatomy, and biomechanics.

Newsole Running is also home to a variety of running and walking groups. These groups are a great way to connect with other runners and walkers while discovering the best running trails in the Atlanta GA area. Whether you're new to running or you've been running for years, joining a running group is a great way to stay motivated and connect with other runners. Here are a few of the walking and running groups that meet at our store in the hearts of McDonough’s historic downtown:

Atlanta Southside Runners

Atlanta Southside Runners is a running group dedicated to connecting runners in the Atlanta area. The group is made up of runners of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The group offers weekly runs, as well as social events and races. Whether you're new to running or you've been running for years, Atlanta Southside Runners is a great way to connect with other runners in the area. 

Moms Run This Town (MRTT)

Moms Run This Town is a group of tenacious moms who love to run. The group is made up of moms from the Atlanta GA area. The group offers weekly runs, as well as social events and monthly challenges. Moms Run This Town is a great way to connect with like minded moms who love to run in the area. 

Black Girls Run

The Black Girls Run Atlanta chapter connects black women from across the Atlanta GA area who love to run. The group is made up of black women of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The group offers runs, programs and events, and races. This group is a great way to connect with other black women in the community and share a common interest - running! 

Black Men Run

Black Men Run has an Atlanta chapter, similar to Black Women Run, and is also known as “Atlanta Runs.” Again, the goal of the group is to connect black men from across the Atlanta, GA area who love to run. They offer weekly runs, social events, and races, and they even have a lively community on social media for networking with like-minded individuals.

McDonough Moms

The McDonough Moms walking group caters to more than 9.2k moms in the McDonough area. The group hosts walks daily to provide the moms with an opportunity to work on their wellness journey. The group loves to show our support for our local businesses and create relationships that can help our community grow stronger, which is why we’re happy to have them meet and connect with us at Newsole Running.

Conclusion

McDonough, Georgia, is a great place to go for a run! With some of the best running trails in Atlanta GA and a welcoming community, there are many reasons to love running in McDonough. Whether you're looking for a scenic trail or a paved path, you'll find it in McDonough. Running at Alexander Park West, the McDonough Square area, the Highway 42 loop, and running and walking groups meeting at the Newsole Running store includes Atlanta Southside Runners, Moms Run This Town (MRTT), Black Girls Run, Black Men Run, and the McDonough Walking Club. 

If you’re in need of a fresh pair of running shoes or gear, you can shop our selection in-store at 1315 McDonough Pkwy, McDonough, GA 30253, or online at Newsole Running!