Running Routes

Running is the best way to get an exercise and relax while enjoying this wonderful city.

Below are my favorite running routes organized by distance.

Route	Distance
Zoo Run	3 miles
Rock Creek Park Run	3 or 5 miles
Mall Run	6 miles

The Zoo Run

In DC the Zoo visit is free of charge. It is a great running loop because it has two entries. The pedestrian main entrance on Connecticut Ave and an entrance for cars at Rock Creek Park way. The best time for the Zoo run is November – April. The Zoo is very crowded during the warm season, which halts the run to a walk. The opening hours are 9 am – 5pm.

Rock Creek Park Run

This is the best if you just want to get away from the city and feel like you are out in the woods to breathe fresh air. A section of Rock Creek Park way closes every weekend for cars. This way you can run a perfect loop partially on the road and along the river. You can modify the running distance depending on where you turn around. If you turn around by the little bridge it is shorter.

The Mall Run

A run around the monuments is good anytime of the year. Get your running shoes and your camera to do some active touristing. You can even make some friends during this activity by joining the running group on Meetup. They do this run once-twice a week.