For those living in the concrete jungle of New York City, it can often feel impossible to get away from it all. Luckily, there are a great number of running routes throughout the city where runners can hit the trails and feel as though they are a million miles away.
1. Central Park
Central Park is undoubtedly the greatest escape in New York City. With incredible scenery and a constantly changing number of street performers, Central Park is also the most entertaining running route in the world. On any given day, runners can choose their routes, adapting their distance as necessary. The Central Park loop is a decent six miles, while running around the reservoir is 1.5 miles. To do some off-the-beaten-path trail running, the Bridle Path route is a 1.66-mile dirt track circling the reservoir. Another good part about Central Park is that there will be plenty of other runners for motivation!
2. Van Cortlandt Park
Tucked away up in the Bronx, this gem has trails that will make runners feel as though they really are in the wilderness. This is a runner's playground, with a running track, a cross-country course and a great number of tree-lined trails through the woods.
3. Hudson River Park
Stretching from Battery Park to the top of Manhattan, the Hudson River Park runs a lengthy 15.9 miles. Hugging the Hudson River, a sunset run down the Hudson River Park can't be beat. With views of the iconic Statue of Liberty, the city skyline, and Chelsea Piers, runners can feel like they are in the center of one of the greatest cities in the world.
4. Prospect Park
Prospect Park feels like an absolute getaway, with its lush greenery and rolling terrain. Runners often share the road with horses and can enjoy the sound of African drumming on Sundays. Like Central Park, there are options to run the main loop at 3.4 miles or go a little further off the beaten path on the great number of dirt trails the park has to offer.
5. Clove Lakes Park
Just a short ferry ride away, runners can escape the crowds by heading to Clove Lakes Park on Staten Island. With three lakes, bridges, waterfalls and thick forest, it is the perfect getaway for runners to get their nature kick.