3 Great Running Routes for Springtime in DC
Every March, I emerge from my DC apartment a little cautious, a little unsure. One never knows if the wind and sleet and snow will be making another appearance or if the tulips will finally start blooming. Spring in DC is incredibly capricious.
Because Washingtonians never know what to expect at this time of year, when the temps first hit 60 degrees (or higher!) my number one priority is to take advantage of the sunshine and hit the pavement.
That first springtime run feels like your body is coming out of hibernation mode. Even if you kept up with regular exercise throughout the winter, nothing prepares you for actual warm air on your cheeks and, best of all, the freedom that comes from wearing just one layer of clothing instead of ten.
Lucky for me, DC has dozens of gorgeous running routes that are flat and manageable — perfect to shake off that post-winter, post-workday drowsiness. After running on a treadmill for months, jumping straight back into hills feels a bit too daunting for me. So I change into summer fitness attire, traipse down the steps of cove in Dupont Circle, and head out to explore the city at a faster pace than usual.
Here are my 3 favorite DC runs when I’m just easing back into things. They’re worth a try next time you’re in the Nation’s Capital!
The Union Station Downhill Run
Tuck your metro card into your waistband! This (mostly) downhill run lets you get in approx. 5 easy miles… then you can metro home from Union Station!
The Kalorama / White House Loop
This 4-mile loop is the perfect way to see DC. Run down Connecticut Avenue, pass through the closed off road in front of the White House and then hit a slow and steady climb up 15th street to return to the Kalorama / Adams Morgan / U Street neighborhood.
The Canal Out-and-Back Run
This easy out-and-back jaunt (3-5 miles depending on your turnaround point) takes you from the Lululemon store in Georgetown, down onto the packed-dirt Canal and back in under 45 minutes.