New York City, with its bustling streets and iconic landmarks, is not only a hub of urban excitement but also a fantastic place for runners. Whether you’re looking for scenic waterfront views, peaceful parks, or challenging hills, the city offers a variety of running routes that cater to all types of runners. From beginners to seasoned marathoners, there’s something for everyone in NYC. Here’s a guide to the best running routes in NYC.
1. Central Park Loop
- Distance: 6.1 miles (full loop)
- Terrain: Paved, some hills
The Central Park Loop is arguably the most famous running route in New York City. This 843-acre park is an oasis in the middle of Manhattan, offering runners beautiful greenery, lakes, and iconic landmarks like the Bethesda Fountain and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. The full loop around the park is 6.1 miles, but there are many shorter paths and trails for runners looking for a less demanding run. The rolling hills and varied terrain make it perfect for both training and casual runs.
2. Hudson River Greenway
- Distance: 13 miles (Battery Park to George Washington Bridge)
- Terrain: Flat, paved
The Hudson River Greenway is a long, flat path that runs along the western edge of Manhattan, providing stunning views of the Hudson River and New Jersey across the water. This route is perfect for runners who enjoy waterfront scenery and a peaceful atmosphere away from the busy city streets. Stretching from Battery Park in the south to the George Washington Bridge in the north, the Greenway offers 13 miles of uninterrupted running space, ideal for long-distance training or casual morning jogs.
3. Prospect Park, Brooklyn
- Distance: 3.35 miles (main loop)
- Terrain: Paved, some hills
Prospect Park, often referred to as Brooklyn’s version of Central Park, offers a scenic and tranquil running experience. The main loop around the park is 3.35 miles, but there are plenty of inner paths that wind through wooded areas, past the park’s lake, and open meadows. Prospect Park is a great option for runners who prefer fewer crowds compared to Central Park but still want to enjoy a lush green space in the city. The loop also includes a few hills, adding a bit of a challenge to your run.
4. East River Esplanade
- Distance: 9 miles (Battery Park to East Harlem)
- Terrain: Flat, paved
Running along the East River Esplanade offers scenic views of the river, Roosevelt Island, and the Queensboro Bridge. The path stretches from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan all the way up to East Harlem, offering about 9 miles of running space. This route is a great way to explore the east side of Manhattan while enjoying the waterfront breeze. It’s ideal for early morning or evening runs when the sun sets over the water, creating a peaceful atmosphere amidst the urban surroundings.
5. The High Line
- Distance: 1.45 miles
- Terrain: Flat, paved
The High Line is a unique elevated park built on a former railway track, stretching from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards on Manhattan’s West Side. While it’s not the longest running route, the High Line offers a one-of-a-kind running experience through gardens, art installations, and beautiful city views. Due to its popularity, it’s best to run early in the morning or during quieter times to avoid crowds. The short distance makes it ideal for a quick run or as part of a longer route through nearby areas.
6. The Brooklyn Bridge
- Distance: 1.3 miles (one way)
- Terrain: Paved, incline
Running across the Brooklyn Bridge is a must for anyone looking for an iconic NYC experience. The 1.3-mile span offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the East River. While it can get crowded with pedestrians, running early in the morning or late in the evening allows for a more peaceful experience. Combine this with a loop through Brooklyn Bridge Park for a longer run along the waterfront in Brooklyn.
7. Governor’s Island
- Distance: 2.2 miles (perimeter loop)
- Terrain: Flat, paved
Governor’s Island, located just off the southern tip of Manhattan, is a hidden gem for runners. The island offers a quiet, car-free environment with panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty, Lower Manhattan, and the Brooklyn waterfront. The perimeter loop is a manageable 2.2 miles, making it perfect for a short, scenic run. For a longer workout, runners can explore the island’s various paths and hills, like the steep climb up Outlook Hill for a great view of the city.
8. Van Cortlandt Park, The Bronx
- Distance: 1.4 to 5 miles (various trails)
- Terrain: Trails, dirt paths, hills
For runners who enjoy trails and a break from the city streets, Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx is a perfect spot. The park features various trail options, including the 1.4-mile John Kieran Trail and the more challenging 5-mile Cross-Country Trail. With dirt paths, wooded areas, and hills, this park offers a natural running experience that feels miles away from the urban environment. Van Cortlandt Park is particularly popular among cross-country runners.
9. Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens
- Distance: 2.5 miles (main loop)
- Terrain: Paved, flat
Flushing Meadows Corona Park, home to the iconic Unisphere, offers a spacious and flat running route through one of Queens’ largest parks. The main loop is around 2.5 miles, but there are plenty of paths that wind through the park, making it easy to extend your run. The park also offers diverse scenery, including lakes, open fields, and the famous New York State Pavilion from the 1964 World’s Fair.
10. Randall’s Island
- Distance: 4 miles (perimeter path)
- Terrain: Flat, paved
Randall’s Island, located between Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx, provides runners with a peaceful and scenic route along the East River and Harlem River. The perimeter path is about 4 miles long, offering flat, paved terrain perfect for both long and short runs. The island also has several athletic fields and sports facilities, making it a great destination for those looking to mix up their workout routine with a run and some additional training.
Conclusion
New York City offers a wide variety of running routes, from peaceful parks and scenic waterfronts to iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge. Whether you prefer a short jog or a long-distance run, these best running routes in NYC provide plenty of options to keep your running routine fresh and exciting. So lace up your shoes, head out to one of these top running spots, and enjoy the unique experience of running through one of the world’s greatest cities!