Great Runs in Quito, Ecuador
Note: For the Full Guide to Running in Quito, see the GR Website
San Francisco de Quito is the capital and most populous city in Ecuador, located on the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano just south of the equatorial line. International visitors to Quito come to stand on the equator at “la mitad del mundo,” explore the architecture of one of the world’s best preserved historic centers, and to stop over before launching off to the Galapagos Islands and other points in Ecuador. For Ecuatorianos, this historic city is an important center of domestic and international business, with major industries including textiles, metals, and agriculture. Running in Quito can be complicated due to elevation (2,850 meters above sea level), traffic, and smog. However, there are some lovely spots strewn throughout the city.
Parque Metropolitano de Guanguiltagua: This large park in the heart of Quito features an 8 km (5 mile) stone and gravel road looping through trees, with great views of Pichincha Volcano. Run it on its own or combine with Parque La Carolina.
Parque La Carolina: A popular workout spot adjacent to Parque Metropolitano, this small park has a measured track as well as several paved running/cycling paths.
Centro Historico ‘Runseeing’: Explore the intriguing architecture of Quito’s well-preserved old town with this historic running tour including Plaza Grande, La Basílica, Plaza San Francisco, Calle La Ronda and other top sights.
El Panecillo: A tough hill climb for the elevation-acclimated runner, this route up to the sentinel madonna atop El Panecillo rewards with panoramic views of the city of Quito. It’s 4.8 km out and back, or combine with our Old Quito Tour.
Three Park Tour, Alameda, El Ejido, Del Arbolito: A nice opportunity for some green, near Quito’s Centro Histórico. The 4.5 km loop traverses the pleasant paths of lameda Park, the tree-filled El Ejido Park, and the more modern Parque del Arbolito and Cultural Center.
Parque Bicentenario: Formerly the grounds of the Quito airport, this park has transformed old runways into beautiful long running tracks with sculptures, native trees, and playing fields. Good, flat running of up to 10 km, good place to practice fartleks!
Chaquiñán Trail: A little bit outside the city center, the 20 km hard packed dirt Chaquiñán Trail is a fantastic choice for a longer run, featuring parks, city streets, and a quiet natural area around El Chiche River.
Pichincha Volcano Trails: Three great paths around the slopes of Pichincha volcano. Take the Teleférico up to the ridgeline, run the lovely El Cinto Cruz route through farmland, or take on the tough switchbacks of the Antenas del Pichincha.
La Ruta El Cinto Cruz: A great off-road running opportunity just outside the city. This open air cycling path travels through flat pastureland along an unnamed road beginning from Parque Metropolitano Chilibulo in Lloa.
Parque Metropolitano del Sur: For visitors to the south end of Quito, the 750 hectare Parque Metropolitano del Sur is a sprawling and beautiful option for a run of any length. The main dirt and stone-paved path is a 12 km out and back.
Original Post By: Kelsey Perrett. For the full running guide to Quito, see greatruns.com.
