Best Running Routes in Boston
Running is in our blood here in Boston and it’s finally summertime — we’re tired of being cooped up indoors.
But what routes are worth running? The last thing you want to do is get lost in the endless maze of roads that twist and turn, magically change names every other block, or abruptly end on you.
Well, don’t worry — we went ahead and did the work for you.
Here are our 5 favorite running routes in and around the Hub:
1. The Esplanade
When the weather is nice, you won’t find a better outdoor scene than on the Esplanade, which is great for keeping your mind occupied while running. And there’s no better view of Boston than the Cambridge-side of the Charles River. Given the plethora of bridges that span the Charles, there’s guaranteed to be a running distance that’s perfect for what you’re looking for.
The loop around the Longfellow and the Mass Ave Bridges is 3.2 miles.
Want to go for a bit of a longer run? Instead of going across the Mass Ave Bridge, go further down to any of the following bridges:
· BU Bridge: 5.2mi
· River Street Bridge: 6.5mi
· Western Ave Bridge: 6.9
· Harvard Bridge: 8.1mi
2. Southie Harborwalk
If you live in South Boston or just want to have a great run along the bay, the Harborwalk is your spot. Starting from Castle Island, you can run the Harborwalk trail which rings along the coast for 4.5 miles to the far end of the UMass Boston campus.
3. Emerald Necklace
If trail running is your jam, running through the 1100-acre Emerald Necklace is a great way to forget that you’re in the City of Champions. Starting from Fenway, it’s 3.4 miles to Jamaica Pond.
4. Jamaica Pond
And if you’re so inclined to continue running through the Emerald Necklace, or just want a lovely jaunt around a beautiful lake, the 1.5 mile loop that rings Jamaica Pond is for you. Don’t feel guilty if you choose to stop over at the original J.P. Licks for a hard-earned scoop of their delicious Coffee Oreo ice cream — we’ve all done it!
5. Boston Commons & Public Garden
Rounding out our top 5 is the none other than the Boston Commons and Public Gardens. It’s only 1.5miles around but with the elevation change of going up and down Beacon Hill, the run is varied enough to keep your attention on the path and not on the hundreds of sunbathers, frisbee-throwers, and purveyors of all types of street food.
Are there other trails, paths, and routes that you like? Let us know and while you’re at it, come check out our website.
Next up is our list of our favorite cycling routes…stay tuned!
Like this article? Like our product? Sign up for our mailing list to stay in touch…applications to join our Beta program will be sent out shortly…
