Recognition highlights city's thriving running community, scenic trails and year-round opportunities to move
PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh has earned national recognition as one of Outside's 10 Best Running Cities in America, highlighting the city's vibrant running culture, extensive trail network, scenic parks and passionate running community. The national publication evaluated cities across the country using factors including accessibility to running, trail mileage, park density, weather, air quality, affordability, health metrics and race opportunities. Outside placed the greatest emphasis on everyday access to places to run, recognizing cities where running is part of daily life.
"Pittsburgh's hills may challenge runners, but they also help define the city's character," Outside wrote. "The Three Rivers Heritage Trail provides scenic waterfront running along the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio rivers. Frick Park offers miles of wooded trails and rolling terrain, while Schenley Park remains a favorite among local runners and collegiate athletes. Lesser-known spots such as Riverview Park and Emerald View Park reward runners with challenging climbs and sweeping views of the city skyline. Pittsburgh's combination of riverfront paths, urban parks and relentless elevation changes creates a running experience unlike any other."
For P3R, the organization behind many of the region's premier running events and programs, the recognition reflects years of building opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to experience the sport. In 2025 alone, more than 115,000 participants took part in P3R's events and programs, from first-time runners and walkers to elite athletes, helping strengthen Pittsburgh's reputation as one of the country's premier running destinations.
"This recognition reflects what runners across our region already know—Pittsburgh is an incredible place to run," said Bob Shooer, P3R Interim CEO. "From our world-class trail system and beautiful parks to our welcoming running community and signature events, Pittsburgh offers something for everyone. At P3R, we're proud to help create opportunities each year for participants of all ages to discover the joy of movement, whether they're crossing their first finish line, training for a marathon or participating in Kids of STEEL."
Throughout the year, P3R inspires runners and walkers of every age and ability through a calendar of events and programs, including the DICK'S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events, America's Mile presented by VisitPITTSBURGH, EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler & 10K, Kids of STEEL, and numerous community events that encourage healthy, active lifestyles. Together, these events help foster a vibrant running community and provide opportunities for more people to discover the physical, mental and social benefits of movement.
Outside also recognized fall as one of the best seasons to experience Pittsburgh's running scene. This autumn, runners and walkers can take part in a variety of P3R and partner events across the region, including:
- Steelers Run and Walk — Sept. 7
- FlyBy 5K and 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk Presented by CNX Resources — Sept. 19
- Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race and Dollar Bank Junior Great Race — Sept. 26–27
- EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler & 10K — Nov. 8
- YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh Turkey Trot presented by UPMC Health Plan— Nov. 26
To read Outside's full list of the 10 Best Running Cities in America, click here.
For more information about P3R events and programs, visit www.P3R.org.
About P3R
P3R is the region’s go-to premier sporting event and experience expert. While best known for the annual DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, P3R organizes up to 20 major events every year. With a rich history of working with top-tier clients such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the National Senior Games, and more, P3R brings operational excellence to every aspect of event planning and execution. We strive to inspire any and all to move with us. Read more at: P3R.org
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