The Best Running Routes in NYC

Discover the top running routes in New York City that will help you gear up for your next half marathon

Running in New York City can be a breathtaking experience. As you prepare for your half marathon, it’s crucial to find the best spots in the city that provide a combination of beautiful views, unique experiences, and terrain that will challenge you during your training. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to run in NYC, as recommended by seasoned runners and experts.

The Urban Runner’s Playbook: Mastering Half Marathon Training in New York City

Target Heart Rate and Tempo Runs

To effectively train for a half marathon, it’s important to monitor your target heart rate during your runs. According to running coach and expert, Jenny Hadfield, “Your target heart rate zones can help you gauge the intensity of your workouts and make adjustments accordingly.” Ideally, you should aim for 60-80% of your maximum heart rate during your long runs and 80-90% during tempo runs.

Hill Exposure and Varied Terrain

Hill exposure is essential for strengthening your leg muscles and improving your running efficiency. “Hills are a great way to build strength and speed, which are key components of half marathon training,” says 4-time Boston Marathon winner, Bill Rodgers. When choosing your running routes, make sure to incorporate a mix of flat and hilly terrain to challenge yourself.

Best Places to Run in NYC for Half Marathon Training

Central Park

Central Park is undoubtedly the most iconic spot for running in New York City. With a 6-mile loop that features gentle hills and flat stretches, it provides an excellent training ground for runners at all levels. The park offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and lush greenery.

“Central Park is where I’ve logged countless miles and memories. It’s a must-run destination for any runner visiting or living in NYC.”
Meb Keflezighi; two-time Olympic marathoner

Hudson River Park

This scenic waterfront route stretches 13 miles along the Hudson River, connecting Battery Park in the south to the George Washington Bridge in the north. With its stunning views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline, Hudson River Park serves as a picturesque backdrop for runners of all skill levels.

As you make your way along the park’s path, you’ll be greeted by a cooling breeze off the river, making those long runs on hot summer days feel much more bearable. Marathoner and author Amby Burfoot sums it up perfectly:

“Hudson River Park is perfect for long, flat runs along the water’s edge, with a cooling breeze and beautiful sunset views.”
Amby Burfoot; Elite Marathon Runner and Author

The park offers a mix of terrain, from paved walkways to gravel paths, providing the perfect setting to tailor your training plan to your specific needs. The mostly flat terrain is ideal for beginners or those looking to focus on endurance and maintaining a consistent pace. More experienced runners can take advantage of the park’s ample space for interval training and speed work, pushing themselves to improve their personal bests.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park, nestled along the East River waterfront, offers a unique running experience for those preparing for a half marathon. With its sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, this park provides a breathtaking backdrop for runners as they navigate its diverse terrain.

The park boasts a variety of surfaces, including paved paths, boardwalks, and grassy areas, ensuring that your training sessions remain dynamic and engaging. The undulating landscape, featuring both flat stretches and hills, allows you to challenge yourself with hill repeats, ultimately building your strength and stamina for race day.

“Brooklyn Bridge Park is great for hill repeats and offers a fantastic backdrop for your training runs.”
John Honerkamp; NYC Running Coach

The allure of Brooklyn Bridge Park extends far beyond its paths and hills. The park is a hub of activity, attracting both locals and tourists alike. As you jog through the park, you’ll encounter with a vibrant community of runners, walkers, and cyclists.

Prospect Park

Prospect Park, located in the heart of Brooklyn, is a favorite training ground for many runners due to its unique blend of lush greenery, picturesque scenery, and varied terrain. The park’s 3.35-mile loop offers a combination of hills and flat stretches, providing the perfect setting for runners seeking balance and versatility in their half marathon training. The park is the base for several local running clubs, including the Prospect Park Track Club, offering a supportive network for runners of all skill levels.

The park’s terrain caters to a wide range of training needs. The flat stretches offer opportunities for runners to focus on maintaining a steady pace, while the challenging hills provide a chance to build strength and power. For those looking to incorporate speed work into their training, the park’s Long Meadow, a spacious and flat grassy area, is ideal for interval sessions and sprints.

Inwood Hill Park

Located along the Hudson River, Inwood Hill Park boasts stunning waterfront views and a lush, forest-like setting that allows runners to feel as if they’ve escaped the urban jungle. As you wind your way through the park’s network of trails, you’ll encounter geological formations and historic landmarks, such as the Shorakkopoch Rock, where Peter Minuit allegedly purchased Manhattan Island from the Lenape tribe.

Inwood Hill Park’s challenging landscape also offers the chance to hone your mental toughness, a crucial skill for any half marathon runner. As you push through the park’s demanding trails and hills, you’ll learn to overcome obstacles, adapt to varied terrain, and stay focused on your goals.

Van Cortlandt Park

Located in the Bronx, Van Cortlandt Park boasts over 20 miles of trails, ranging from flat cinder paths to challenging, hilly trails. The park’s diverse terrain makes it a favorite training ground for many NYC-based runners.

“Van Cortlandt Park offers everything a runner needs for half marathon training. The mix of trails, hills, and flat stretches is perfect for building strength and endurance.”
Dean Karnazes; Ultramarathon Runner

For runners seeking a more challenging experience, Van Cortlandt Park also features the rugged and hilly Cass Gallagher Nature Trail. This 1.4-mile loop offers a demanding workout, testing runners’ strength and agility as they navigate its steep inclines and rocky terrain. The trail’s challenging nature makes it ideal for hill repeats and technical training, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for any surprises on race day.

Wrapping Up the Best Running Routes in NYC

Training for a half marathon in New York City can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With its diverse array of scenic routes and unique urban landscapes, the city offers runners the perfect environment to push their limits!