Shady Running Route

[Anonymous]

I'm hoping some experienced distance runners can help. I am training with a friend for the MCM in the fall. We are in good shape but the heat caused some trouble this am. I am in charge of our 13 miles next week. Is Beach Drive above where they shut it down for the weekend relatively shady? I've done some of the road but I can't remember.

Thanks.

[Anonymous]

Yes it is. The Capital Crescent trail is also shady the entire distance.

[Anonymous]

OP here. We ran the CC today from Little Falls to Georgetown. There is a good stretch that isn't shady, from Fletchers on down is almost completely in the sun.

[Anonymous]

Another option with good shade in the AM is the Mt Vernon trail south of the beltway. Park in the Belle Haven parking area and head south, out and back. There is a water fountain at that parking area and another at a rest area ~2.5 miles south. I've been known to just bounce between those 1, 2, or 3 times depending on desired distance. It's also nice further south -- just depends on if I'm with others, how I'm feeling with the weather, if a bail out option is desirable or defeating, etc.

[Anonymous]

I'm so out of shape. I'm also training for the mcm but am on at 5 miles for Saturday's. You guys must be in great shape!

I've trained for 4 mcms here and really, once the distances start getting long, getting full shade can be tough. I've liked the mount Vernon trail. Start in old town and head south. There are stretched of sun, like under the new bridge, but nothing like the glaring sun at the bottom of the cc that you suffered through.

good luck training!! See you at the end of October!

[Anonymous]

Google the rock creek trail. It runs along beach and I think is 14 miles top to bottom. It is pretty much all shady.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Yes it is. The Capital Crescent trail is also shady the entire distance.

I was going to suggest the CC trail too.

[Anonymous]

Rock Creek From Lake Needwood south to near the Temple is mostly shady except for a patch where it crosses Randolph Road.

[Anonymous]

If you run early enough (start around 5am), the trail near Bon Air Rose Garden is mostly shady and has some nice views (stream, trees, wildlife).

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Rock Creek From Lake Needwood south to near the Temple is mostly shady except for a patch where it crosses Randolph Road.

I agree this trail is wonderful and quite shaded. I don't run it without a buddy because parts of it is a bit isolated.