Running

Running is one of the best ways to see the city, and several uninterrupted scenic trails wend through Downtown Washington and nearby northern Virginia (including the Mount Vernon Trail; ). The trails of Rock Creek Park close at nightfall and the ones along the C&O Canal () and other remote areas—or on the Mall—are not as safe, although the streets are fairly well lit.

National Mall and Memorial Parks. The most popular running route in Washington is the 4½-mile loop on the Mall. At any time of day hundreds of runners and speed walkers make their way along the gravel pathways. There's relatively little car traffic and, as they travel from the Lincoln Memorial all the way up to the Capitol and back, they can take in some of Washington's finest landmarks, such as the Washington Monument, the Reflecting Pool, and the Smithsonian's many museums. For a longer run, veer south of the Mall on either side of the Tidal Basin and head for the Jefferson Memorial and East Potomac Park, the site of many races. Bounded by Constitution and Independence Aves., The Mall, Washington, District of Columbia. www.nps.gov/nacc.

Information and Organizations

For low-key group runs, check the D.C. Road Runners' website (www.dcroadrunners.org). Pacers (www.runpacers.com), a popular running-store chain, has weekly group runs at its six locations. Information on weekend races around Washington and comprehensive listings of running and walking events are posted online by a local publication, the Washington Running Report (www.runwashington.com).

Fleet Feet Sports Shop. Every Sunday morning this shop sponsors informal runs through Rock Creek Park and other areas. Runners gather at the store just before 9 am to embark on a 5-mile Fun Run along the streets and into Rock Creek Park. In addition, Wednesday is FF Ladies' Nights, with all-women runs of 3- to 5 miles starting at 6:30 pm. 1841 Columbia Rd. NW, Adams Morgan, Washington, District of Columbia, 20009. 202/387–3888; www.fleetfeetdc.com.