Capitol to Lincoln · Running route
National Mall Running Route
- Distance
- 5.0 mi
- Route
- Mall loop
- Area
- Capitol to Lincoln
Run it, connect Strava or upload your run — your medal unlocks automatically. Free.
Running the National Mall is a lap of American history: from the Capitol, past the Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool, to the Lincoln Memorial and back — about 5 miles.
The route
- Distance: about 5.0 miles for the full loop.
- Terrain: flat gravel and paved paths.
- Bonus: run up the Lincoln Memorial steps.
Tips
- Early mornings are quiet and cool.
- Gravel paths get dusty in summer.
- Lots of events and closures — check before you go.
How to unlock the National Mall medal
- Run the route above — any pace counts, walk breaks included.
- Copy your Strava activity link (or a link to a screenshot of your watch or phone).
- Submit it on the Park Mile Passport page. Once approved, the National Mall medal unlocks in your passport. It's free.
Running with a crew? Join the Park Mile club on Strava and share your park runs.
Looking for your next park?
All Washington DC park running routes →