An Independent Running JournalEstablished Autumn 2019Issue No. 27

At an Easy Pace

RUNNING SLOWLY, LIVING WELL, NOTICING THE WAY

Along the Way

A Few Familiar Roads

No precise tracks here—only notes about the surface, hills, light, and the hour when each route feels most welcoming. Routes change. Walking counts too.

  1. ROUTE 07
    5.2 MILES
    LEVEL

    The East River Path

    Start at the steps below the old bridge, follow the river east, and turn at the white water tower. There is almost no traffic. Between 5:40 and 7:00 a.m. it is at its quietest. Summer offers little shade; in winter the wind comes directly off the water.

  2. ROUTE 04
    3.8 MILES
    GENTLE HILLS

    The Garden Perimeter

    Half old paving stone and half asphalt, with a long, mild climb near the west gate. Pollen is heavy in spring, but the air after rain is excellent. On weekends it becomes busy after eight.

  3. ROUTE 09
    6.4 MILES
    LEVEL

    The Old Town Loop

    Past the post office, the old theatre, and two streets lined with plane trees. There are too many crossings for uninterrupted training, which makes it perfect for a run with no particular aim. The bakery marks the final mile.

  4. ROUTE 02
    4.5 MILES
    ROLLING

    Below North Hill

    The first two miles rise gradually and the return is easy. Fallen leaves make a quiet rasp beneath the shoes in autumn. This is not a route for checking pace. It is a route for looking at the hill.

A Note on Safety

Distances come from an old running watch and may be slightly inaccurate. At night, choose well-lit roads with other people nearby. In hot weather, shorten the route rather than forcing the planned distance.