Best places to run in Washington DC
The best places to run in Washington DC are the most iconic and scenic spots. Running outdoors offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. First and foremost, it allows individuals to connect with nature, providing a refreshing change of scenery from indoor environments. The fresh air and natural surroundings can improve lung function and overall cardiovascular health. Moreover, outdoor running often involves varying terrain, which engages different muscle groups and enhances balance and stability. If you haven’t yet, be sure to check out our post What is the best surface to run on?. Sunlight exposure during outdoor runs promotes the synthesis of vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function. Beyond the physical advantages, outdoor running can reduce stress, boost mood, and provide a sense of freedom and tranquility, making it a holistic and fulfilling exercise option for many. Whether it’s a park, trail, path or track, Washington, D.C. offers a variety of scenic and popular locations for outdoor running. Read on to find out some of our favorite places to run outside in DC.
The 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. Capital Crescent 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 Anacostia Riverwalk Trail provides a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, making it suitable for different running preferences.
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.
Helpful Tips
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. 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. Enjoy checking out some of the best places to run in Washington DC!
Helpful Tips
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. 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. Enjoy checking out some of the best places to run in Washington DC!
RELATED POSTS
5 Essential Stretches for Runners
Stretching for runners helps to prevent injuries, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion... but not all stretches are created equal. Learn the best stretches for running, when and how often to stretch.
What is the best surface to run on?
What kind of surface is best to run on to decrease the risk of injury? Learn the pros and cons of different running surfaces. Plus - how a video running analysis can up your running game this season.
Form First: Factors of Running Gait
There can be a lot to pay attention to when it comes to our movement patterns, particularly with running. The following five factors are critical to ensuring proper form.
Form First: Running Gait Evaluation Tools
Our bodies can develop functional movement patterns that aren't always the most efficient or safest for us over time. Try these tools and methods to evaluate and make adjustments to your gait.
Foot Strike: The Debate
When running, the foot can hit the ground in different areas: rearfoot, mid-foot, or forefoot. One heavily debated topic is rearfoot versus forefoot striking, and which (if either) is better for healthy running.
Finding the Right Running Shoe for You!
Let's talk running shoes! Of course, there are many types available for different feet, terrain, distance, etc. We will compare the two most common and differing shoe designs.
Trever Reed PT, DPT, CMTPT, OCS, COMT
Dr. Trever Reed is a well rounded physical therapist who believes in helping patients reach their goals. Dr. Reed believes in building a strong therapeutic alliance with his patients to help them participate in the activities that they enjoy. Dr. Reed received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Misericordia University and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a Healthcare Management specialization from Misericordia University. He completed a physical therapy orthopedic residency and went on to become a board certified orthopedic specialist. Additionally, he obtained a certified orthopedic manual therapist (COMT) certification. He is currently working towards his Dry Needling certification and is excited to continue to grow his skill set to help his patients as best as possible. Dr. Reed previously worked in a busy outpatient orthopedic setting where he was a staff physical therapist and then a clinic director.
Outside of the clinic, Trever is an avid runner and runs for the Georgetown running club (GRC). He is also a big basketball fan and can be frequently found at Washington Wizards games.