My Top 5: Under-the-Radar Running Spots in Philly

Bored of your usual running route? Here are a few spots to head to for a change of scenery.

John Heinz Wildlife Regie at Tinicum | Photo by Flickr user Tom Ipri

John Heinz Wildlife Regie at Tinicum | Photo by Flickr user Tom Ipri

Seeking solitude? Take note: Philadelphia Runner’s Liz Pagonis spills on her favorite road-less-taken (read: way less crowded than Kelly Drive) running trails.

1. Woodlands Cemetery // “Peaceful and a tiny bit spooky. You can wind your way up and down the walkways or along the paved path, or tackle the tricky trail around the cemetery’s perimeter.”

2. John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum // “The trails of America’s first urban refuge are the perfect escape from crowds and noisy city streets. Keep your eyes peeled — there’s lots of wildlife to see!”

3. Penn Park // “The paved paths here are lined with lush landscaping and wind their way around athletic fields, so there’s always something to watch. There are several loops for speedwork and open fields for cross-training.”

4. Cobbs Creek // “Cobbs Creek offers a little something for every type of runner, from paved paths to the scenic Mount Moriah Cemetery. Plus, it connects to other West Philly running trails.”

5. Chamounix Drive // “When enjoying the solitude of these quiet Fairmount Park trails, which range in difficulty, it can be hard to believe you’re still in Philly.” Note: The Fairmount Park Conservancy usually offers guided trail runs along these trails in the spring.

This article first appeared in the 2016 Be Well Philly print magazine. 

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