Running on vacation is not everyone’s cup of tea, but for those of us looking to pound a little pavement (or dirt) at the most magical place on earth, Disney has made it not only easy, but really fun. As a local to the area, I have the luxury of getting at least one of my weekly runs on Disney property.
Though just being near the magic is enough to push me the extra mile, these routes all have extra perks that call me back again and again. While they don’t compare to the thrill of an actual RunDisney race through the parks, they are a great chance to sprinkle a little fairy dust on my fitness routine.
Almost every Walt Disney World resort has its own .75mi – 1.25 mi running path, but these are this local runner’s top 5 of 2021.
Magic Kingdom area Resorts
(approx. 5 mile out and back)
(Ticket and Transportation Center ↔ Polynesian Resort ↔ Grand Floridian Resort ↔ Magic Kingdom entrance area ↔ Contemporary Resort)
There is some whimsy to this run, as you have to actually go through Magic Kingdom security to make it all the way through. The guards seem to be used to runners though as they keep it moving quickly and offer encouragement. The scenery changes as you pass through the different resort areas and it is a real treat to hear the different theme music through the speakers.
Each individual resort has its own running path, and this route goes on part of each. The full loops can be added for a bit more distance. My personal favorite part is running through the Polynesian as it is mostly shaded and the tropical ambiance makes me feel like I’m truly on an island. A dole whip from the Pineapple Lanai is a perfect cool fuel on a hot day. No judgement from this fellow fun runner if you go for the rum floater.
Skyliner/Lakes loops
Hourglass Lake – 1.29 mile loop (Art of Animation and Pop Century Resorts)
This is a simple loop route with many options for added distance by meandering in and around the resorts. Both have interesting themes with lots of fun signage around for distraction.
Barefoot Bay (Caribbean Beach and Riviera Resorts) – .75 mile loop
While this is the shortest loop, it has lots of opportunity for adding on for distance. The grassy area in front of the picturesque Riviera Resort is ideal for extra body work. I can’t pass it up without at least a few push ups. The beaches at Caribbean Beach Resort offer fun opportunities for “character photos” and there are two skyliner stations on this route making it a top choice for anyone choosing to run from a skyliner resort.
Crescent Lake (Boardwalk Resort ↔ Hollywood Studios ↔ Swan and Dolphin Resort ↔ Yacht and Beach Club Resorts ↔ Epcot World Showcase Entry)
This area offers the most opportunity for variation as the Swan and Dolphin resorts have multiple paths. This is a favorite just for the sound of sneakers on the boardwalk. Morning runners should be careful as the wood is known to be slippery.
It is quite difficult to make it around this loop once everything is open without at least one stop for treats. The Boardwalk Bakery is a popular ending point for coffee and a pastry, though I typically prefer the margarita stand right outside. But the ultimate reward for this gal is a banana split at Beaches and Cream at the Beach Club Resort. Runners get bananas at finish lines after all, right?
*** To make this really exciting, each of these lake loops are connected by the skyliner. Hop aboard Disney’s aerial gondola system for a runners resort hop. This is best done mid afternoon while lines are short.
“Hidden” Fort Wilderness Trail
There was once a path between Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and The Fort Wilderness campground that held the top spot for many Disney runners. Though the cut through path is no longer available, Fort Wilderness is arguably the best place for running on all of Disney property.
There are miles of campsite loops with large sidewalks, but the hidden gem is actually a designated pet path accessible by loop 700. It is not paved but well maintained. Runners can follow the path of the old Fort Wilderness Railroad tracks while feeling completely transported to some very different type of wilderness paradise. This path is an absolute must try for any guest looking for an escape from the vacation hustle and bustle.
There are many great options for keeping up with fitness goals at the Walt Disney World Resort, but these routes keep it feeling like vacation. With the exception of the nature trail, they all offer opportunities for treats to keep you motivated and one of the best parts of running on Disney property – ample access to really nice bathrooms. No port-a-potties here folks.
If you find yourself on a Disney trip looking for a great way to spend some time exploring outside the parks while also keeping moving, there’s no better way than a quick run or stroll to experience a little something extra. While nothing beats an official RunDisney race event, each of these routes has its own kind of magic.
To get started planning your fit Disney vacation, reach out to Laura Miller at Travel Ease at Laura@teplanners.com for a complimentary custom quote. Make your next Disney trip your best Disney trip, whether it’s your first or 21st.
Laura Miller is a Travel Ease Advisor specializing in Disney vacations. She is a full-time RV nomad home-based in Orlando with expertise in run vacations, couples trips, and family trips with small kids. Her favorite thing about planning Disney trips is finding something magical for every individual.