Atlanta BeltLine Running Series: How to Join Races and Group Runs on the BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine Running Series is a popular way to experience the BeltLine’s trails while staying active, meeting other runners, and exploring different neighborhoods around the city. If you live in Atlanta or you’re visiting and want to run on the BeltLine, this guide explains what the series is, how it works, and what to expect on race day and beyond.

What Is the Atlanta BeltLine Running Series?

The Atlanta BeltLine Running Series is a collection of organized running events held on or near sections of the Atlanta BeltLine trail system. These events typically include:

  • Timed 5Ks and 10Ks
  • Occasional fun runs or family-friendly events
  • Community runs tied to BeltLine festivals or neighborhood activities

The series is designed to:

  • Showcase different segments of the BeltLine (Eastside, Westside, Southside, and more)
  • Encourage Atlantans to walk, run, and bike instead of driving
  • Support the ongoing development and maintenance of the BeltLine

While event organizers can vary from year to year, most races in the series are permitted through the City of Atlanta and work in coordination with Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. and related partners.

Where the Races Happen: Key BeltLine Segments

Most Atlanta BeltLine Running Series events are held on or near the most developed and accessible trail segments, especially:

Eastside Trail

  • Runs between Midtown, Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, and Reynoldstown
  • Popular access points near:
    • Ponce City Market (675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308)
    • Historic Fourth Ward Park (680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308)
  • Often used for 5K events because it’s paved, relatively flat, and heavily used by runners and walkers

Westside Trail

  • Connects neighborhoods such as Adair Park, West End, and Westview
  • Common trailheads near:
    • Gordon White Park (1350 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30310)
    • Lee+White warehouse district (West End)
  • Frequently chosen for races highlighting historic Westside neighborhoods and arts districts

Southside & Westside Connector Areas

  • As more trail segments open, some races incorporate:
    • Newer Southside Trail sections
    • Connector paths that link to parks and residential streets
  • These areas are often part of 10K or longer routes that combine multiple segments

Event organizers typically publish exact course maps ahead of time, but knowing these core segments helps you picture where you’ll be running.

Types of Events You Can Expect

Races and runs associated with the Atlanta BeltLine Running Series generally fall into a few categories:

1. Timed 5K Races

The 5K is the most common format in the series. Expect:

  • Chip-timed or clock-timed finish
  • Start/finish near a public park, plaza, or commercial area
  • Mixed participation: serious runners, joggers, and walkers

These are a good entry point if you’re new to organized running in Atlanta.

2. 10K or Extended-Distance Runs

Some events scale up to 10Ks or looped courses:

  • May connect two BeltLine segments
  • Often include mild elevation changes and varied surfaces
  • Attract runners who already have a base level of conditioning

3. Family-Friendly Fun Runs

On certain weekends or during festivals:

  • Shorter 1–2 mile routes
  • Stroller-friendly sections of trail
  • Emphasis on participation rather than pace

These are good options if you’re introducing kids or non-runners to the BeltLine.

4. Themed or Seasonal Events

Some races align with:

  • Neighborhood festivals
  • Holiday weekends
  • Health and wellness campaigns

You may see costumes, music along the course, or post-race activities in local parks.

How to Find Current Atlanta BeltLine Running Series Events

Event lineups change from year to year, but you can typically find current BeltLine races by:

  • Checking the Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. event listings:
    • Main office: 100 Peachtree St NW, Suite 2300, Atlanta, GA 30303
    • Main phone (operator line): 404-477-3003
    • Public information staff can usually direct you to current race partners or community events using the BeltLine.
  • Visiting local running store bulletin boards and community calendars in:
    • Midtown
    • Virginia-Highland
    • West Midtown
  • Looking at event listings for:
    • Parks in the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation system
      (City Hall: 55 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303, main line 404-330-6000)

When you identify an upcoming race, read the event details carefully for:

  • Start time and check-in window
  • Exact start/finish location
  • Route description (trail segment, elevation, surfaces)
  • Registration cut-off dates and fees

What Running on the BeltLine Is Like

The BeltLine is different from a closed stadium track or rural road race. On race day, you’re sharing a multi-use urban trail.

Surfaces and Terrain

Most BeltLine race courses are:

  • Paved with smooth asphalt or concrete
  • Mostly flat with gentle inclines, though some access ramps and connectors can be steeper
  • Free of major traffic crossings, but there can be:
    • Cross streets with signalized intersections
    • Short sections on neighborhood streets

Crowd and Trail Use

Even when there’s a race, the BeltLine remains:

  • Open to cyclists, walkers, strollers, and skaters
  • A hub for dogs on leashes, families, and casual users

Event organizers often place volunteers along the route, but runners should:

  • Keep to the right except when passing
  • Signal or call out when passing slower participants
  • Be prepared for bottlenecks near popular entrances and bridges

Typical Race-Day Experience on the BeltLine

Here’s how most Atlanta BeltLine Running Series race mornings unfold:

Before the Race

  • Arrival: Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early to allow time for:
    • Parking or transit
    • Bib pickup and warm-up
  • Parking: Options vary by event but often include:
    • Nearby paid decks (e.g., around Ponce City Market or Lee+White)
    • Street parking in adjacent neighborhoods (always check signs)
  • Transit: Many runners use:
    • MARTA rail to reach stations near the BeltLine (e.g., Inman Park/Reynoldstown, West End, Arts Center)
    • Personal bikes or scooters to get to the start area

During the Race

You can generally expect:

  • Marked mile or kilometer points
  • Course marshals at key intersections
  • Some form of timing, especially for series-branded runs
  • Aid stations for longer distances (water, basic support)

Because the BeltLine is popular and relatively narrow in places, the start may feel crowded until the field spreads out.

After the Race

Post-race experiences often include:

  • Water and light refreshments
  • Space to stretch and cool down in a nearby park or plaza
  • Access to restaurants, coffee shops, and markets right off the trail

This is one of the main appeals of BeltLine races: you can finish your run and walk straight into a neighborhood spot for breakfast or coffee.

Joining Regular Group Runs on the BeltLine

You don’t need to wait for an official BeltLine Running Series race to enjoy organized runs on the trail. Many Atlanta groups and clubs use the BeltLine as their default route.

Where Group Runs Commonly Meet

Common meeting points for group runs include:

  • Near Ponce City Market on the Eastside Trail
  • At Historic Fourth Ward Park
  • Around Krog Street Market and the Inman Park trail entrances
  • Near the West End MARTA Station and Gordon White Park for Westside Trail runs

These runs are often:

  • Weeknight evening social runs
  • Saturday or Sunday long runs
  • Pace-based groups for different experience levels

How to Connect With Running Clubs

To find BeltLine-focused group runs, look for:

  • Atlanta-based running clubs that advertise BeltLine routes
  • Stores and fitness studios around Midtown, Old Fourth Ward, and West End that host recurring runs on the trail

Most clubs welcome:

  • New runners
  • Walk-jog participants
  • Visitors who want a guided introduction to the BeltLine

Safety and Etiquette Tips for BeltLine Runners

Because the BeltLine is both a transportation corridor and a recreation space, a few habits make running easier and safer for everyone.

Trail Etiquette

  • Stay right, pass left 🏃‍♂️
    Treat the trail like a roadway; look before changing position.
  • Announce passes
    A simple “On your left” helps avoid collisions.
  • Headphones
    If you use them, keep the volume low enough to hear bikes and announcements.
  • Pets and strollers
    Be aware that leashes and wide strollers can take up extra space, especially during races.

Time of Day Considerations

  • Mornings (especially weekends) are popular for races and training runs.
  • Evenings can be very crowded, particularly along the Eastside Trail.
  • Lighting is generally good on major segments, but for early or late runs:
    • Stay on well-lit, busy sections
    • Consider running with a partner or group

For emergencies on public property in Atlanta, call 911. For non-emergency public safety concerns in City of Atlanta areas, the non-emergency line is often routed through Atlanta Police Department at 404-614-6544 (check current non-emergency numbers before your event).

What to Bring and How to Prepare

You don’t need special gear to run in a BeltLine event, but a few basics can make your experience smoother:

  • Comfortable running shoes suited to paved surfaces
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
    Atlanta can be humid and warm, even in spring and fall.
  • Hydration plan
    • Short 5Ks: on-course water may be enough
    • Longer runs or hot days: consider a small handheld bottle or belt
  • Transit/parking plan
    Check:
    • MARTA schedules if using rail or bus
    • Event instructions for recommended parking or rideshare drop-off zones
  • Sun protection
    Some segments are exposed, with limited shade.

If you’re sensitive to heat, many Atlanta runners prefer early morning starts to avoid peak afternoon temperatures on the exposed trail.

Using the BeltLine for Personal Training

Even outside of the official Atlanta BeltLine Running Series, the trail is one of the most convenient training spots in the city.

Why Runners Like the BeltLine for Training

  • Long, continuous paved routes with minimal car traffic
  • Clearly visible distance landmarks (intersections, public art, parks)
  • Easy transitions between:
    • Flat, steady efforts on trail
    • Hill work on side streets and neighborhood hills

Popular Training Loops

Without needing an exact map, common patterns include:

  • Out-and-back runs on the Eastside Trail from Ponce City Market in either direction
  • Loops that connect BeltLine sections with:
    • Piedmont Park
    • Old Fourth Ward Park
    • Neighborhood streets in Inman Park, Virginia-Highland, or West End

Many local runners use these loops to prepare for:

  • Atlanta BeltLine Running Series races
  • Larger city races that also include portions of the BeltLine or nearby streets

Who Manages and Supports the BeltLine

Understanding the organizations behind the BeltLine helps you know who to contact with trail or event questions.

Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI)

Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. coordinates planning and implementation of the BeltLine project.

  • Address: 100 Peachtree St NW, Suite 2300, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Main phone: 404-477-3003

ABI often partners with event organizers, neighborhood groups, and city agencies for races on or near the trail.

City of Atlanta

Portions of the BeltLine and connected parks are managed through the City of Atlanta, primarily:

  • Department of Parks and Recreation
    • City Hall: 55 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Atlanta Police Department and other public safety agencies for event permitting and security

If you’re unsure who to contact about a specific race, starting with the event organizer’s contact listed on the registration page, and then ABI’s main office, is usually the most direct route.

If You’re New to Running or Visiting Atlanta

You can still enjoy the Atlanta BeltLine Running Series or BeltLine group runs even if you’re not a seasoned runner.

  • Look for walk-friendly or fun run options.
  • Choose a 5K on a central segment like the Eastside Trail if you want:
    • Easy access from hotels in Midtown or Downtown
    • Lots of nearby food and coffee options after the race
  • Join a social group run advertised as “all paces welcome.” Visitors are typically encouraged, and locals often enjoy showing off their favorite BeltLine highlights.

The Atlanta BeltLine Running Series offers a straightforward way to experience Atlanta’s signature trail system while staying active and connecting with local communities. Whether you race, jog, or walk, focusing on BeltLine-based events and group runs will give you a clear feel for how Atlanta runs, trains, and gathers along this growing urban loop.