Local runners, where do you run? Trying to avoid pavement. I have done runs on the canal, but are there any other good running spots this close to DC?
Local runners, where do you run? Trying to avoid pavement. I have done runs on the canal, but are there any other good running spots this close to DC?
Well unfortunately, most of the rail trails are paved. Such as Gravelly Point, Four mile run, W+OD, etc.
If you have the means to get there, you can always go to Rock Creek Park, Carderock, or Great Falls Park out in McLean.
Chesapeake and Ohio canal tow path
I either run on whatever the path that goes by gravelly point is, or on the towpath. You could always run around the mall if you really want to avoid pavement.
Theodore Roosevelt Island has dirt trails.
Been a while since I lived in Northern VA but Prince William Forrest near Quantico had some very nice trails. I cant remember the names of the trails but I had one out and back route that was about 18 miles total. You can link a few different trails together to make loops up to 20 miles. The network of trails can be a pretty confusing your first few times so I recommend bringing a map. My first run there was supposed to be an easy 5 miler. Got lost and finally found my way back to the parking lot 2 hours later....
The canal will give you the best run. Less people, wide, and freedom from DC people. The bikers on rock creek and gravelly point are annoying. The other problem with a place like Rock Creek are the running groups. These ding dongs take up the whole trail and think they own the parkway. No trail etiquette whatsoever. You have to make a lot of effort to get around them or if you are coming from the other direction you are going to have to shoulder them like I have a couple of times. But the freedom of DC people on the canal will give you the best workout.