Best Running Spots in Town

The Tulsa running spots every local should have on their radar.

Whether you’re training for a race, getting in your daily miles, or just looking for a prettier place to move, these are some of my favorite places to run around Tulsa. From riverside sunrises and shaded trails to quieter paths that deserve more attention, save this for your next run!

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The Gathering Place

Gathering Place is a 66.5 acres park along the Arkansas River in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Created by the George Kaiser Family Foundation, and designed by landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh, the park was established September 8, 2018. It is open to the public free of charge.

Address: 2650 S John Williams Way, Tulsa, OK 74114

LaFortune Park

Our story begins in 1920 at 51st & Yale Ave. at the Tulsa County Poor Farm, where poor people worked for their food, received health services and had a roof over their heads. But in 1935, FDR introduced the national welfare system, and eventually the farm became obsolete and too expensive to maintain. In 1958, oilman J.A. LaFortune saw the potential of the old farm and donated $250,000 to Tulsa County to build a park. He did so because he “wanted to give back to the city that had been so good to me.” LaFortune’s passion for the creation of public county parks extended to his friend Claude Chandler, who he convinced to donate 100 acres of his quarry for a west side park. [Chandler Park] On October 16, 1960, LaFortune Park was opened to the public. As the first county park in Oklahoma, the 270-acres features over 700 trees, 11 ponds, and more than 100,000 visitors a year. There is an 18-hole championship golf course, a lighted driving range, pro shop and the only lighted 18-hole par 3 in Oklahoma. It’s a spectacular setting for all occasions with indoor and outdoor event spaces.

Address: 5501 S. Yale Ave. | Tulsa, OK 74135

Riverside Trails

‍Offering the best in outdoor recreation, River Parks’ 26 miles of asphalt-surfaced trails weave past gathering areas, playgrounds, fountains and sculptures along the banks of the Arkansas River in Tulsa. Additionally, River Parks owns and leases hundreds of acres reserved for wildlife habitation and land preservation.

Address: Along Riverside Drive Tulsa, OK

Tulsa Route 66 River Park Route

The Route 66 River Park route centers on the 11-mile paved trail along the Arkansas River connecting Downtown Tulsa to Jenks. Crucially, this recreation corridor parallels and intersects the historic Route 66 alignment.

15 Free Things to Do in Tulsa Along Route 66 | SheBuysTravel

Actionable Stops and Route Highlights

Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza: Located where the historic 1917 11th Street Bridge (also known as the Cyrus Avery Route 66 Memorial Bridge) crosses the Arkansas River. The plaza features the "East Meets West" bronze sculptures depicting Avery's family in a Model T and replica vintage neon motel signs.
River Parks Trail: A paved, multi-use path stretching 11 miles from Downtown Tulsa to Jenks, popular for walking, cycling, and running. You can access the trail at dedicated parking areas along Riverside Drive, such as the trailheads at 21st or 41st streets.
Route 66 Neon Sign Park: Positioned just off Southwest Boulevard on the western bank of the river, this spot features several giant restored neon signs. It’s highly recommended to visit at dusk or night for the best photo ops.
11th Street Bridge (Historic Alignment): After passing the river, the classic highway route turns south onto Southwest Boulevard. The old concrete bridge is now a pedestrian-only walkway offering views of the river and Avery Plaza.

Turkey Mountain

‍Rising above the west bank of the Arkansas River, River Parks’ Turkey Mountain is an untamed oasis in the heart of the city. Encompassing over 750 rugged acres, the park’s thick canopy of native trees watch over winding trails, serene ponds and ancient boulders. Secured to remain a public park in perpetuity, the Wilderness is a one-of-a-kind regional destination that continues to grow in popularity. Turkey Mountain is Tulsa's top destination for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking.

Address: 6850 S. Elwood Ave. Tulsa, OK 74132