Jogging is one of the best forms of exercise, if for no other reason than you can do it just about wherever you are. Still, we at GI decided to put together a definitive Top 5 list of the best cities in the United States to jog through. Check out the list below:
1) Chicago
When it comes to scenic jogs, you can’t beat Chicago’s 18-mile path around Lake Michigan. An absolutely stunning sight no matter how many times you run past it, joggers and cyclers have chosen this path as their go-to place for a long, rejuvenating jog for decades. And the Des Plaines River Trail, a gorgeous wooded trail, also runs through Chicago (it stretches north and south of the Windy City too). The Des Plaines River Trail is popular year-round but diehards swear that the autumn foliage is a must-see.
2) New York City
New York City has long been a jogging hub. Perhaps most notably, it is home to the New York Marathon, which runs through all five boroughs. There is of course the 6-mile loop through Central Park but there are also nine other popular parks for jogging including Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx and Prospect Park in Brooklyn.
3) Washington, DC
The 5-mile loop through the Mall takes you on a tour of all the best national monuments in the country’s capitol. But don’t forget about Rock Creek Park, which boasts some impressive jogging trails. (The most popular trail in Rock Creek Park is Beach Drive, a road that is partially closed to vehicles on the weekends.)
4) Portland
Though it might not spring to mind right away when considering the nation’s top jogging spots, Portland really does have it all: parks, hiking trails, winding paths through wooded areas and more! A highlight is the stunningly gorgeous Banks-Veronica State Trail.
5) San Francisco
Don’t be intimidated by those hills! San Francisco is a great jogging option for those looking for a challenge. And for those who prefer flatter terrain, San Francisco has that too. Golden Gate Park has more level trails and paths, all set against serene lakes and impeccably manicured gardens. San Franciso’s cool, refreshing weather is another reason joggers from across the country flock here to run.
Do you know an even better city or town near you for jogging? Tweet us your favorite place to run!
