The Best Running Routes in Boston, MA
No matter what time of day and year, the sidewalks and parks of Boston are full of runners and joggers looking to sneak in a quick (or lengthy) workout during their free time. These dedicated runners are out there on the hottest summer days and coldest winter evenings. There are also plenty of options from flat, paved surfaces to more hilly, cross-country paths. Whether you like to run down the side of a busy city street or feel a little more secluded in a local park, these are the best running routes in Boston, Massachusetts.
1. Charles River Esplanade
Park
The Charles River is Boston’s main waterway. Lining the riverbanks is the Esplanade, a long stretch of greenway that extends from downtown all the way to Brighton, the western district of Boston. The Charles winds all the way down through the suburban towns of Newton and Waltham, which makes it a perfect setting for long-distance runners to practice and build up endurance and is especially useful for anyone practicing a half marathon.
2. Jamaica Pond and Arnold Arboretum
Park
One of the parks that make up the series known as Boston’s “Emerald Necklace,” Jamaica Pond is surrounded by a 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) running path. For more of a challenge, and a longer loop that measures over six miles (9.6 kilometers), consider running south along the Arborway until you reach the Arnold Arboretum. This park is managed by Harvard University and features some of the most scenic foliage in the city. Both of these parks are also less crowded than other areas of the city, where some of the pathways might get clogged up with runners. With plenty of hills, this is a great course where cross-country runners looking for a challenge can train.
3. Commonwealth Avenue Mall
Park
Starting from central Boston Common, located at the heart of the city, you can run through the beautiful Public Garden, past the famous Swan Boats and down Commonwealth Avenue, one of the most beautiful avenues in Boston. A long pedestrian park divides the two lanes of traffic, extending between the Public Garden and Kenmore Square. Since the distance isn’t particularly long, this route is good for more novice runners looking for a short, level-surfaced course.
5. Cambridge Esplanade
Park
The Charles River separates Boston and Cambridge. Memorial Drive runs along the banks of the Cambridge side, lined with a beautiful stretch of open parks with plenty of room for running, among other activities. In the summer, there are plenty of events going on in these parks, so you can work up a sweat on your run before sitting down in the grass to relax while you enjoy a live music performance. The Cambridge Esplanade runs about three miles (4.8 kilometers) and takes you past some of Cambridge’s most beautiful neighborhoods, including the campuses of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University.
6. Fresh Pond Reservation
Park
7. Back Bay Fens
Park
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