Last summer, running footwear brand HOKA ONE ONE produced its “Top Trails Series” of videos, highlighting some of the best running cities in the U.S. One of those installments featured our very own trail running haven of Spokane. But HOKA couldn’t pass up the opportunity to touch upon the area’s notable running history, as well—of which many locals are likely familiar.

Being a runner in Spokane is a natural choice in hobbies, whether you’re a recreational jogger or an elite athlete toeing the line at prominent races for your chance at breaking the finish line ribbon. The area offers everything all of the best running cities do—and maybe even a little more. So, here are the top five reasons to be a runner in Spokane.

Start the Season at the Lilac Bloomsday Run

Each spring, thanks to the suggestion of Olympic marathon runner Don Kardong, tens of thousands of runners gather in downtown Spokane for the Lilac Bloomsday Run (May 6). The challenging 12-kilometer course attracts everyone from professional runners to families of walkers. This race might be among the claims to fame of Spokane’s running culture—finding itself on national top race lists from time to time—but it’s not the only one worth registering for. The area has dozens of annual races, from 5ks to marathons.

Take to the Many, Many Trails 

Access to well-groomed trails is never more than a 10-minute drive from nearly anywhere in the city. With Dishman Hills, Iller Creek and Camp Sekani Park to the east, Palisades Park and Riverside State Park to the west, the paved Centennial Trail that runs right through the city center and plenty of other small trails linking from neighborhoods, there are plenty of routes to explore. And the trails in Liberty Lake, Coeur d’Alene and beyond make for a lengthy weekend bucket list. Races run the gamut from 5ks to 50ks, including the Spokane River Run, Mt. Spokane 50k/25k and the Trail Maniacs series.

Join a Running Group 

One wouldn’t think the population of Spokane could justify the number of running groups that flock the roads in the warmer months (and they’re unofficially still navigating snowy streets during winter months, too). Serious runners find training partners in the women’s Spokane Swifts and men’s Spokane Distance Project groups. And running versus beer drinking priorities are up for negotiation at weekly runs from The Lantern Taphouse and Iron Goat Brewing, among other locales around town. One of the largest running groups in the nation—the Flying Irish Running Group—meets weekly at Ripples Riverside Grill at the Red Lion Hotel, where members run with 300-600 of their closest friends. Drawing national attention, the Flying Irish (and their usual shenanigans) was featured in the March 2018 issue of Runner’s World.

Need Shoes? Say No More

Every great running city has their go-to running specialty shop. Spokane is no exception, and Fleet Feet Spokane’s owners Wade and Julie Pannell and their staff will make you feel right at home to talk all-things-running. They recently reopened their downtown shop in a large, vibrant space in the heart of Kendall Yards, with easy access to the Centennial Trail. The local business is an active participant in the running community and host to a myriad of events and training groups year-round for all levels of runners.

Give Yourself a Reason to Indulge

If you’re one who runs to eat and drink, you’re not alone, and Spokane is a great city to balance these loves. Take to the trails or the hilly city routes and burn some calories, then head to one of the several dozen beer and wine tasting rooms, savor a scoop of post-workout homemade ice cream, or grab some grub at a locally owned eatery. The more miles on your weekly running log, the less guilt there will be when enjoying the food and beverage scene here.