Gwen Martin
Run DC
Gwen Martin
Spring 2016
Sloshing through snow clogged streets or discovering the first cherry blossoms on an early March run? Which would you choose? Granted, this year was unusually warm in both Boston and DC, but DC is still a runner’s paradise in terms of lovely spring weather and easy access to a variety of workout spots. After lots of map study and exploration, I have discovered three of northwest DC’s best running routes.
National Zoo
National Zoo, Connecticut Ave Entrance
The zoo is a perfect place for a leisurely Sunday morning run, especially if you are looking for countless excuses to stop, stretch … and catch the animals eating their breakfast or the youngsters frolicking. Starting from the Connecticut Ave entrance, just blocks from BU housing, the route takes you down Olmstead Walk past the zebras, pandas (the babies are out most mornings!), and elephants and I always feel pretty good at the turn around spot at “Asian Trail.” Circling back on this trail, the steady uphill is the payback for the easy warm-up, but a Starbucks cold brewed coffee at the entrance is reward enough. The zoo gates open at 8:00, and, if you go on weekends, I recommend getting there soon afterwards since strollers and racing children crowd the paths by mid-morning. Before then, however, the zoo run is a perfect way to wake up on a weekend morning.
Cold brew with soy
Woodley Road
If you are feeling strong and steady, choose this route. The uphill start from the apartment takes a little extra something, but I quickly lose myself to the gorgeous houses and the rhythm of my breathing. The route is relatively flat and with few intersections to worry about, it is a good route to work on pacing. The majestic National Cathedral and beautiful grounds marks my 1.2 mile goal; I stand and admire or do a lap around the block before I finish with a strong pace back. There is always the option of extending your workout with wind sprints up and down the quiet side streets. In any case, the home stretch back home is a pleasant decline, giving me a chance to finish the run solid.
Woodley Road
Rock Creek Parkway
Most similar to the Esplanade along the Charles, Rock Creek hugs a creek bed and a busy parkway. The sound of the cars can be a distraction, but, because there are no streets to cross, I usually plug into my iTunes playlist and settle into a long run. The path goes all the way to Georgetown, about 3 miles away, so even the most dedicated runner can satisfy her mileage goal. (There is also the option of heading north into Rock Creek Park, which has hiking trails, historic sites, and picnicking spots.)
Entrance to Rock Creek Parkway
The bike path provides the option of running on a dirt path instead of concrete, which is a nice reprieve for an urban runner. The glimpses of budding trees and soaring birds also give this route a nice taste of nature and hope for spring. Weekends bring a festive air of a park to the route, with bicyclists and strollers weaving in and out of groups of families and friends promenading, taking in the sunshine and warmer weather.
Gwen is a junior studying business at Boston University and interning at the Department of Justice.
