Our nation’s capital has loads of lush open spaces that offer ideal running trails: Judging by the number of people you can meet every morning or evening in full running gear. You wouldn’t be wrong to conclude this city is a runner, jogger, and power walker paradise.
DC weather can be unpredictable. Some summer days can go from too hot and humid, then overcast in a matter of minutes. Most of the time, the winter chills can be unforgiving.
Running trails are also not suitable for some people. The distances you have to cover can be challenging, especially if running on blacktop rains hell on your knees or cuff muscles.
But, don’t fret for Washington DC has some of the best running tracks suitable for every runner and any season of the year. Please sit back as we run through the best running tracks in Washington, DC, in no particular order.
YMCA of Metropolitan Washington
Mention the YMCA, and most people think of that catchy 80s tune or men dressed in crazy costumes. But, this facility offers some of the best fitness facilities in downtown Washington DC. Their indoor running track is suitable for all year activities.
The best thing with the YMCA is that membership entitles you to access their facilities across the nation. You also get free consultations for health and wellness. It’s right next to a host of museums and fine dining establishments such as city place café and barcode.
Locals also recommend the potbelly sandwich shop for the finest snacks you can grab while moving if you’re a little hungry after a workout session.
They also offer:
- Health and fitness classes
- Free weights, cardio, and other gym equipment
- Rock climbing
- Basketball
- Child care programs
- Afterschool programs for kids of all age
Location: 1701 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036, United States
Yelp reviews: 4.6 with 14 votes
Google reviews: 3.7 ratings with 223 reviews
Official Website: www.ymcadc.org
Sherwood Recreation Center
This community recreational center is the ideal running track in Washington, DC, for families looking to include everyone in fun activities. They offer all the weight lifting and cardio equipment you’d need in their indoor guy. Their running track is well paved and kept to pristine condition. This running track is a bit on the small side, but it can still meet your running, power walking, or jogging needs.
They also have a community garden and playground where the kids can have a little fun as you work out.
They also offer:
- A multi-purpose hall
- Full kitchen
- Basketball and tennis courts
- Mound themed playground
- Play areas for toddlers
Location: 640 10th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States
Yelp reviews: 4.5 with 3 votes
Google reviews: 4.5 ratings with 145 reviews
Official Website: www.dpr.dc.gov
The Takoma Community Center
The Takoma community center is one of the most affordable running truck Washington dc’s metropolitan area. It’s running track is well maintained and has ample lighting making it ideal for night-time running.
This center has all the facilities suitable for toddlers to senior citizens. The building is well equipped for fitness activities, summer camps, and other personal enrichment programs. Their indoor aquatic center is stunning and hosts regular activities for every family member.
The parking is ample, and it’s close to the metro bus stop and subway station. And, just a stone throw away from dinners, banks, and other essential facilities.
They also offer:
- Fully serviced computer labs and learning annexes
- Multi-purpose recreational halls
- An indoor pool
- Outdoor basketball and tennis courts
- A variety of athletic fields
- Playgrounds
- A dog park
Location: 300 Van Buren St NW, Washington, DC 20012, United States
Yelp reviews: 4.0 with 38 votes
Google reviews: 4.5 ratings with 340 reviews
Official Website: www.takomaparkmd.gov/about-takoma-park
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is the largest public park in our capital’s metro area. The park’s single-loop running track measures 0.5 miles, 804 meters. This offers the right amount of challenge for newbies, kids, and senior citizens. Such a short distance and the proximity to the metro area makes it ideal for any time of the day.
You get to enjoy running outside in the elements minus the challenge the blacktop can present in this running track Washington . It’s also a very kid and dog-friendly place so that you can bring the entire family for a fun day. If you like to power up after a grueling run, there are loads of places to grab a bite.
The Wine & Butter Café & Market comes highly recommended. Their croissants and coffee are simply divine.
They also offer:
- Clean public bathrooms
- A dog park
- Playgrounds
- Safe drinking fountains
- Ample parking options
Location: Washington, DC 20003, United States
Yelp reviews: 4.5 with 27 votes
Google reviews: 4.6 ratings with 815 reviews
Official Website: www.loc.gov
Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex
We saved the best for last. Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex is the most iconic indoor running track in Washington, DC. This track measures 200 meters (0.12 miles), so it never gets too crowded.
Aside from running, the facility also hosts various family-themed fitness activities, youth outreach programs, festivals, and other cultural events. The indoor arena has state of the art pole vaulting facilities and runways. You can also try your hand at some short put or high jumping.
They also offer:
- An aquatic center
- Fully serviced gym for cardio/weight training
- Outdoor stadia
- Gymnastic center
- Learning and personal empowerment programs
Location: 8001 Sheriff Rd, Landover, MD 20785, United States
Yelp reviews: 3.5 with 31 votes
Google reviews: 4.5 ratings with 1,296 reviews
Official Website: www.pgsportsandlearn.com
Time to Strap in Those Trainers
So there you have it, 5 of the best running tracks in Washington DC that are ideal for any time of day. As you can see, they offer more than just a perfect place to get a few miles on your pedometer. You can get a few laps in the pool or get a little cardio and weight training after warming up on the running track.
The best thing with running tracks in Washington DC is that you can bring the whole family along. Even your furry four-legged friends. So, if you’re in our nation’s capital, please feel free to make a stop.