Have an upcoming run on your calendar or trying to fit into your schedule more regularly? Planning ahead of time can not only help you commit to a new habit or training program but will also help reduce surprises that may otherwise break up your plans.

Nothing is worse than driving to a trailhead and discovering that your planned parking lot is full with no alternatives (that you are aware of) or that the trail is longer than expected. We’ve done a little research for you and have the download on not only the basic stats but also the best running routes in Johnson County.

Enjoy the scenery while hitting your running commitments!

Franklin Historic Trail

This five mile asphalt trail leads you to many landmarks in Franklin. While on the Franklin Historic Trail, you will pass through parks, stately willows along the creek, Franklin college, a boardwalk over wetlands, and residential areas. You will also get a glimpse of the historic Franklin courthouse and a cemetery. The trail does cross several city streets, so you will want to be careful in those areas. There is a bit of a slope at the beginning of the trail, but the rest is relatively flat and easy for anyone to navigate.

• Length: 5 miles
• Surface: Asphalt
• Parking: Province Park, Blue Heron Park, Wetlands
• Uses: Walking/Running, Biking, Rollerblading

Johnson County Park

Johnson County Park, located in the southern part of the county, is popular with runners. The park is also home to Whispering Pines Golf Course, Hoosier Horse Park, and six “Park Partners.” Park Partners are community groups that have their home base in the park. Johnson County Antique Machinery Club, Columbus Model Railroad Club, Radio Controlled Flyer Club, Radio Controlled Car Club, Indiana Live Steamers and Nineveh Senior Center are all a part of our park family!

This beautiful park has around five miles of wooded hiking trails, paved roadway perfect for running, and lots of open fields totaling 561 acres of park land. There are 2 campgrounds, an equestrian schooling course, a historic cabin and an amphitheater.

• Length: 5 miles
• Surface: Wooded hiking trails and paved roadway
• Uses: Walking/Running, Biking, Hiking

Greenwood Trails

The Greenwood Trails are about five miles of mostly asphalt trails that take you through many areas of historic Greenwood. You will travel through Main Street, open park areas, tree lined paths, and residential areas. Most of the path is relatively flat, but some areas may be hilly and harder to navigate for those using wheelchairs.

• Length: 4.7 miles
• Surface: Mostly asphalt
• Parking: Craig Park
• Restrooms: Craig Park
• Uses: Walking/Running, Biking, Rollerblading, Wheelchairs

Map My Run

Though these trails are not official city trails, MapMyRun has a map of trials that locals have created. Users upload their favorite running paths, stating the distance, type of trail, and whether you should expect hills or not. Then you save your favorite path, so that others can try them out as well. There are many other features upon registering. There is also an app, so you can use your phone for even more features! As of this post, MapMyRun has over 1300 results for running paths in Franklin, Indiana. We're sure there is one near you, or you can create your own!

As with any exercise, always take health and safety precautions.

• Pack water and snacks for longer runs
• Wear a hat to shade from the sun and wear sunscreen
• Warm up slowly before you run
• Cool down and stretch after you run
• Prevent common injuries with more helpful tips here.

Contact our Orthopedic and Sports Medicine specialists to discuss how and when to start a new exercise program.