The Best Running Routes In Washington D.C.

Exercise is a proven way to relieve stress and release endorphins. So it’s no coincidence that Washington, D.C. has recently held the title of both Most Stressed City in America and Fittest City in America (which it lost to Minneapolis last year). Still, running is a great way to escape traffic and de-stress. Explore the capital with these seven great running trails.

1. National Arboretum

Park

Get away from the traffic and politics with a run at the National Arboretum. You can traverse the 446 acres of park with 10 miles of winding trails. Pause for a stretch at the National Capital Columns in the Ellipse Meadow and take in the picturesque views.

2. Hill train at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park

Park, Zoo

Mei and her popsicle at the National Zoo | © Brian Gatwicke / Flickr

The expansive and free National Zoo is a fantastic place to knock out a quick morning jog. The walkways measure 2.5 miles. It’s so popular with locals that in 2015, zoo officials cut hours to prevent traffic accidents, so it now opens at 8 a.m. on weekdays. If you need a breather, there’s nothing quite like stopping in front of exotic animals while you catch your breath.

The National Mall

This is possibly the most iconic route in D.C. The loop connects the Lincoln and Capitol Building, covering four miles. You will pass the Washington Monument, Smithsonian museums and many, many tourists taking selfies. There is the added benefit of plenty of water fountains so you don’t need to carry a water bottle.

3. Great Falls

Park

This run requires getting into a car and driving a little bit (five miles) outside of city limits. However, it is absolutely worth it. You will leave the city noise far behind as you run along beautiful cascading falls. Great Falls State Park has multiple trails to choose from, so you can go again and again to explore new paths.

4. Hains Point

Park

This four-mile loop is perfect for recovery running. It is relatively flat and paved, and cooler because it’s by the water. Along the course, enjoy watching planes take off and land across the river at Reagan National Airport.

5. Rock Creek Park

Park

Tired of the city life? Check out Rock Creek Park. It has multiple trails from four to 10 miles, and that’s before you count the horse trails. Jog along scenic shaded paths and discover inner peace away from politics.

6. C&O Canal

Park

Looking for the perfect route for a long run? Look no further. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal offers 184 miles of open trail, taking you from Washington, D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland. Give your knees a break as you pass gravel, dirt, and even grassy patches. For you crazy ultra-runners who want to do it in one go, there are campsites and lockhouses along the path.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.