The Best Outdoor Running Routes in Boston
By: Sarah Lapinsky
Boston is any runner’s paradise with a strong running community, the famous Boston marathon, and gorgeous routes along the Charles. Whether you're an experienced athlete or just looking for a casual jog, the variety of outdoor running routes in this city has something for everyone. From calming paths along the Charles River to hectic routes through the historic downtown, Boston has a multitude of different environments to suit your preferences. We’ll go through some of the best outdoor running routes in this city, to give you the perfect reason to lace up your sneakers and experience the beauty of Boston on foot.
Charles River Esplanade
The Esplanade is my personal favorite spot to run in Boston! This immensely popular route is alongside the Charles River with gorgeous views of both the water and city. You will often have company on your run with other runners, bikers, and people just out for a stroll with their dogs. I personally love all the activity in this spot as I feel as though it adds some extra motivation to keep running. Getting to see the cute dogs, kids playing on the playgrounds, and even the occasional salsa dancing makes this route incredibly interesting and fun.
Depending on which path you choose you can run anywhere from 3 to 17 miles. This makes the Esplanade perfect for both beginners and more advanced distance runners alike. Additionally, there are less street crossings than several other routes around the city. This is a huge benefit for limiting stopping and starting to prevent you from falling out of your rhythm. The path itself is also well maintained with the pavement being even. If you are looking to give your legs a break from pounding on the pavement it’s also very easy to run on the softer dirt right next to the path. Overall, you cannot beat running on the Esplanade where the gorgeous views make you feel like the main character.
2. Jamaica Pond
If you are looking for a shorter, more peaceful route we recommend exploring the path around Jamaica Pond! This loop is 1.5 miles of tranquility. While this distance may be the perfect amount for those that are new to running, it is also possible to extend this loop into nearby parks if you are looking for a longer run. One benefit of running in the Jamaica Pond area is that it allows you to feel a greater connection to nature, which is something that can be hard to find in a city. The quiet, tree-lined path makes this the perfect spot for a peaceful run that will help you relax and reset your mind.
3. The Freedom Trail
If you are looking for a running route that takes you right into the hustle and bustle of Boston, look no further than the Freedom Trail! This route will take you right through the heart of the city with the added benefit of seeing some of the historic landmarks Boston is best known for. Some examples of these landmarks are Paul Revere’s house, the Old North Church, and Bunker Hill. The trail itself is 2.5 miles long, which is a great distance for those looking for a shorter run with the added excitement of lots of sites to see and people around. We recommend trying out the freedom trail route if you are a runner looking for the perfect blend of history and city!
4. Franklin Park
Another great spot that many runners love is Franklin Park. This is the largest park in the Boston area and filled with plenty of greenery! A multitude of trails run through this park with the longest being 3 miles long. You can mix and match these trails to keep your routes interesting while staying in the same area. This is one of the best places in Boston to go for wooded trails and a break from running on hard pavement. There are also golf courses and the famous Franklin Park Zoo nearby if you are looking for a fun activity to look forward to after your run. Overall, we think this park offers a great escape from the city and can be helpful in adding more variety to your runs.
Conclusion
Boston is truly home to the most diverse settings for runners. Whether you are looking to be along the water, running through the city, or on a peaceful wooded trail there is truly something for everyone. Running is such a huge part of the fitness culture in Boston and is a great way to connect with others in the area. Additionally, there are numerous health benefits including better cardiovascular health, weight management, improved mood, and so much more. Try going for a run on one of these incredible routes to see all these benefits for yourself! Lace up your shoes and discover a whole new side of your favorite city today!
