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Park Safety Map for Joggers & Runners

Use this park safety map to learn about the different areas of the park and their safety considerations.

This is a general park safety map and all parks and outdoor environments may be different.

Wooded Paths and Areas

Wooded paths and dense areas of a park should generally be avoided if you're jogging because they possess natural seclusion and limited visibility.

There is normally heavy tree cover, bushes and undergrowth, and winding trails which all lead to obscure sightlines and difficulty in using situational awareness and observing strangers from a distance.

Due to their limited sunlight and rugged terrain, they are also often sparely populated which leads to less bystanders that can intervene if necessary.

And the lack of lighting and quieter atmosphere provides cover for predators with bad intentions.

Lastly, the uneven terrain and hidden roots or branches can be dangerous, making it harder to react quickly or change direction if you sense danger. 

Entrances and Exits

Park entrances and exits can be dangerous for runners because they often involve transitioning through less populated isolated areas like parking lots or side streets.

These "transition areas" are typically quieter, especially in the early morning or evening, making it easier for predators to stalk their victims. The lack of foot traffic and normal poor lighting also increases the risk of being targeted in these areas.

Since people often let their guard down when arriving or leaving, runners may become more vulnerable in these areas. Staying alert, having your self-defense products ready, and avoiding lingering near entrances or exits can help reduce these risks.

Waterfront or Lake Areas

Waterfronts and lake areas can pose dangerous conditions for runners due to how desolate they can get and their natural terrain that's advantageous for predators.

Running paths along lakes and waterways are often very desolate and contain few exit points since one whole side of the path is bordered by water. The other side is often bordered by dense woods or forest terrain which make running paths closed off with limited visibility.

The variable terrain leading down from the normal ground to the water allows for favorable hiding spots for predators.

The water's natural sounds and noises can also provide coverage for a predator.

Well-Lit Roads & Paths

Well-lit roads and paths are the best options for runners and joggers in parks at any hour of the day since they are normally the most populated and provide greater visibility even in darker settings.

These well-lit areas are typically popular running routes and therefore discourage criminals from loitering in those areas. If something were to happen, there are normally bystanders or other runners in the area to call for help or personally intervene.

Fields and Open Clearings

Fields and open clearings are typically populated by families, children, and groups of adults, which make them great for running or jogging. The presence of recreational activities and gathering points increases the likelihood of bystanders and decreases the likelihood of violent crime.

Open areas also provide a clear line of sight and greater visibility with less obstructions, which makes it easier to observe people from far away and evaluate their risk level.

There's also more space to maneuver if someone were to present a risk, and you'd be provided with several different escape routes if necessary.

Bridges and Tunnels

Bridges and tunnels can be a potential area of concern for joggers due to their enclosed nature and limited visibility. A bridge or tunnel typically only has two ends and therefore only two escape routes if someone were to attack you.

Bridges and tunnels also normally don't have much lighting or very poor lighting which hinders visibility. As mentioned earlier, the water's natural sounds provide coverage for a predator and added elements that can throw off a jogger.