Whether you want to huff and puff long distance or just canter along a scenic loop, these are some of the best cities for all you avid runners this summer.

San Francisco

Sporty fit young jogger jogging by San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

Often on many lists as a popular runners’ city, San Francisco’s famous Golden Gate Park is the #1 choice for runners. The Ebarcadero is another great route that’ll take you along the eastern waterfront and through the crowded Fisherman’s Wharf. The Presidio offers one of the most popular routes from Crissy Field to Hopper’s Hands (a sign that runners usually touch before turning back), which takes you right along the Bay.

Washington D.C.

The nation’s capital has many historic sites to run through. You can jog past some monumental structures as you do the National Mall, which will loop you around the White House, the Jefferson Memorial, and the Kennedy Center. Rock Creek Park is another great oasis in the middle of the city. Its tree-covered trails can even lead you to find Fort DeRussy, a Civil War fort that lies in its woods.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis Skyline and Mississippi River, Minnesota

Runners who hop flights to Minneapolis will see locals grinding out the miles regardless of the weather, with summer time, however, being the best time to witness the city’s trails come to life. Try the very popular Chain of Lakes route, which loops you for almost 12 miles around Lake Harriet, Lake Calhoun, Lake of the Isles, and Cedar Lake. There are also numerous options along the Mississippi River. Starting at St. Anthony Main and running along the Mississippi should give you a great view of  St. Anthony Falls.

Denver

The Mile High City has a sunny disposition when it comes to embracing runners. Hit Denver‘s famous 40-mile Cherry Creek Trail for a flat track that’ll help you ease into running at high altitude, or try the High Line Canal Trail, which has shady trees and resting spots where you can catch your breath. If you find yourself parched after a good run, there’s bound to be a great bar just around the corner!

Boston

jogging by the Charles River with part of the boston Skyline

The historic and charming city of Boston really appreciates its runners. Locals love jogging by the Charles River, where an 18-mile bike path gives great views of the city. You can also burn some calories on Emerald Necklace, a series of paved paths that starts at Downtown Crossing and heads into Jamaica Plain. For a bit more of a challenge head to Newton Hills, which is a part of the Boston Marathon course.

Seattle

It can’t get more scenic for runners in Seattle. If you don’t mind the slight drizzle now and then, be prepared to take in the beauty of the colorful flowers and lush trees of Washington Park Arboretum, the amazing views of Puget Sound while jogging around Discovery Park Loop Trail, and the breathtaking sight of the city from atop the Water Tower at Volunteer Park.

New York City

Group of joggers exercising at Central park, NYC

It’s no surprise that the home of the world’s largest marathon can also offer some amazing trails for runners. New York‘s Central Park remains one of the best places to run in the country, at any time of the year, but most strikingly during the sunny summer months. If you want to veer off the beaten path, try running over the bridges out from Manhattan that span over water, like the Queensboro or the Williamsburg Bridges.

Packing your running shoes on your next trip? Where are you going and what are your favorite trails to hit over summer? Let us know in the comments!

Leave a Reply

About The Author

Socialite, philanthropist, costumed crime fighter by night...no wait...that's Batman...my bad ... Musician, writer, travel junkie, dog lover, and database of useless information. I love to learn about new cultures, experience new cuisines, meet new people, and have a few laughs along the way!