Washington, D.C. offers a variety of scenic and popular locations for outdoor running. Here are some of the best places to run outside in Washington, D.C.:
National Mall: The National Mall is a popular choice for runners due to its iconic landmarks and open spaces. You can enjoy a run while passing by the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and various Smithsonian museums.
Rock Creek Park: As one of the largest urban parks in the United States, Rock Creek Park offers a network of trails that provide a peaceful and natural environment for running. The trails wind through forests, along streams, and past picturesque landmarks such as the Pierce Mill.
C&O Canal Towpath: Located adjacent to the Potomac River, the C&O Canal Towpath is a flat, packed-dirt trail that stretches for 184.5 miles from Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland. The D.C. portion of the trail offers beautiful scenery and is ideal for longer runs.
East Potomac Park/Hains Point: Situated on a peninsula in the Potomac River, East Potomac Park and Hains Point provide a scenic waterfront route for runners. You can enjoy views of the river, as well as the Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and Tidal Basin.
Capital Crescent Trail: This popular trail stretches approximately 11 miles from Georgetown in D.C. to Silver Spring, Maryland. The trail is mostly paved and follows the path of an old railway, offering a tranquil running experience through wooded areas and charming neighborhoods.
National Arboretum: The National Arboretum features various running paths that wind through its picturesque gardens, including the iconic Capitol Columns and the Bonsai Collection. It provides a peaceful and serene environment for runners.
Theodore Roosevelt Island: Located in the Potomac River, Theodore Roosevelt Island offers a unique running experience. The island features trails that meander through forests and marshland, providing a tranquil escape from the city.
Anacostia Riverwalk Trail: This multi-use trail follows the banks of the Anacostia River, offering scenic views and connecting various neighborhoods in D.C. The trail provides a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, making it suitable for different running preferences.
Remember to check the weather conditions, be aware of your surroundings, and follow any safety guidelines or rules specific to each location.
If you prefer running on a track, there are several options in Washington, D.C. that provide well-maintained facilities for runners. Here are a few notable tracks in the area:
Anacostia High School Track: Located at 1601 16th Street SE, the Anacostia High School Track is a popular choice for runners. It offers an all-weather surface and is open to the public outside of school hours.
Dunbar High School Track: Situated at 101 N St NW, the Dunbar High School Track provides a high-quality rubberized surface. It’s open to the public during non-school hours and offers a great track running experience.
Cardozo High School Track: Found at 1200 Clifton St NW, the Cardozo High School Track features a well-maintained rubberized surface. It’s generally accessible to the public outside of school activities.
Wilson High School Track: Located at 3950 Chesapeake St NW, the Wilson High School Track is another option for track running. It offers a synthetic surface and is available to the public when not in use by the school.
Howard University Track: Situated at 6th St NW & Girard St NW, the Howard University Track is a well-known facility. It features a synthetic surface and is open to the public during designated hours.
Before visiting any of these tracks, it’s recommended to check their availability and any specific regulations regarding public access. Some tracks may have scheduled events or maintenance periods that restrict public use.