National Mall · Running route

Tidal Basin Running Route

Distance
2.1 mi
Route
Tidal Basin loop
Area
National Mall
Tidal Basin Park Mile medal

Run it, connect Strava or upload your run — your medal unlocks automatically. Free.

The Tidal Basin loop circles the water past the Jefferson Memorial, the MLK Memorial and the FDR Memorial — and in spring, the famous cherry blossoms. About 2.1 miles.

The route

  • Distance: about 2.1 miles around the Tidal Basin.
  • Terrain: flat paved paths.
  • Extend it: add Hains Point or the National Mall.

Tips

  • Cherry blossom season is magical — and crowded. Go at sunrise.
  • Some narrow parts by the water; be patient.
  • Great with the Washington Monument in view.

How to unlock the Tidal Basin medal

  1. Run the route above — any pace counts, walk breaks included.
  2. Copy your Strava activity link (or a link to a screenshot of your watch or phone).
  3. Submit it on the Park Mile Passport page. Once approved, the Tidal Basin medal unlocks in your passport. It's free.

Running with a crew? Join the Park Mile club on Strava and share your park runs.

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