Categories:
The National Mall is one of the most iconic and inspiring runs in the world. The run “to do” is along the cinder paths between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial, incorporating the Washington Monument, with the buildings of the Smithsonian flanking you on either side. Even though it’s not a long run, there are three “sections”: between the Monument and the Capitol; around the Monument; and then from the WW2 Memorial to the Lincoln Memorial. Approaching the Lincoln Memorial, you can choose to either run right along side the Reflecting Pool, or along the beautifully canopied pathway. It is tempting to run, Rocky-like, up the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, but the National Park police discourage it (and the steps are slippery!).
The core run is 4.3 miles, and can be part of the longer run that includes the Ellipse out to the Jefferson, FDR, and MLK memorials. It is also a treat to do this run at night, with the major sites all illuminated.
Add-On: For a longer run, combine with the Memorials Run out to the Jefferson, FDR, and MLK memorials.
Essentials
- 4.3 miles
- Flat
- Near the Capitol or any other spot close to where you are staying
- Metro has stops along the way
Comment on this Route/Share a Photo!
Share your feedback on this route and see that of other Great Runs users. Click on the image icon to upload a photo. And please let us know if there are notes or changes we should incorporate!
Subscribe
2 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
adsfkke
1 year ago
Your map is so small it is unusable
Reply
Author
Mark Lowenstein
1 year ago
Reply to adsfkke
Thanks for pointing that out. We uploaded a different, more usable map.
Reply
Essentials
- 4.3 miles
- Flat
- Near the Capitol or any other spot close to where you are staying
- Metro has stops along the way
Other Routes in this Area
The Memorials
A truly inspiring run, incorporating scenery, history, and beauty. The core “Memorial Run” incorporates the Washington Monument,... more...
