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The East Potomac Park loop to Hains Point is a popular loop for joggers. Located on a man-made island in the Potomac River, this park is adjacent to the Jefferson Memorial and makes for a great standalone run or add-on to a Memorial/National Mall jaunt. There are wonderful views of the water, golf course, DC landmarks, and planes taking off and arriving at Reagan Airport just across the river.
Historically, runners would use the Rock Creek Trail right alongside the water. However, it’s become eroded due to rising waters. Instead, the main road, Ohio Dr SW, has been changed to a one-way lane for cars with a dedicated lane for bicycles & pedestrians. There are two loop options. The full loop on Ohio Dr. is 4.1 miles, but does involve road crossings around the Jefferson Memorial. The more popular loop is a 5k, Ohio Dr. to Buckeye Dr.
On a hot day, sometimes there’s a cooler breeze coming off the water. It’s especially beautiful during cherry blossom season (late March to mid-April).
Add-Ons: Many options to add on here — some combo of our National Mall, Memorials, Arlington Cemetery routes, or more along the Potomac toward Georgetown.
- Loop options: 4.1 miles (6.6 km) or 3.2 miles (5.1 km)
- Flat
- Ohio Dr./Buckeye Dr.
- Metro: L'Enfant Plaza; Some parking on Buckeye Dr. Also other parking areas on the island
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This is one our favorite spots to run in DC. A few things to point out. Most folks run the 3.1 mile loop around the golf course using Buckeye Drive. The sidewalk next to the water is in disrepair and not runnable. Everyone runs the road, which is newly marked with dedicated lanes. Cars are 15 MPH one way, so they are not an issue – see photo. There are also two public bathrooms along the loop.
Closest metro stops are across the channel – Waterfront or L’Enfant – about 1 mile (I suggest Waterfront, it’s a nicer route to the park). Also, there is a metro bike station at the corner of Ohio and Buckey (parking there as well). When finished, the Wharf area is a great place to grab a bite or a post-run beverage. This is what you see when running along the Washington Channel looking at the marinas.