Santa Fe is known for its history and artistry — you can get a dose of both while running through the East Side neighborhood, the site of some of the city’s grandest homes and the historic Plaza, with its Palace of the Governors, walkway of Native handmade offerings, shops, and eateries.  PRO TIP: During the holiday season, the Canyon Road Farolito Walk features a trail of lanterns,  setting the iconic pink adobes aglow. 

Easy Downtown Route: For an easy & festive 3.5 mile route, start at the historic Santa Fe Plaza and take Palace Street east for 1.5 miles to Patrick Smith Park, and then Canyon Rd. for the return. Along Palace Rd.  You’ll see key sites of the historic downtown. Then the Canyon Road District is full of lovely, historic homes. You’ll also see the Barrio de Analco Historic District on the south side of the Santa Fe river, including the State Capitol.

Our friends at Running Hub Santa Fe (fantastic running store) have mapped two routes through this scenic sector of town, starting at their store on Don Diego Ave. However, you can start the loop from any point in town!  Note these routes overlap somewhat and cross some busy streets! Coming from the direction of Running Hub, both routes start out uphill and culminate in a rewarding downhill finish.

Running Hub Plaza Route This route encompasses tourist attractions such as Canyon Road, the Rail Yard, and the Plaza,

Running Hub Museum Hill Route: Traverses Museum Hill, site of the city’s four most popular museums.

Great Runs Easy Downtown Route. For an easy 5k loop on pleasant running streets downtown, start at the historic Santa Fe Plaza and take Palace Street east for 1.5 miles to Patrick Smith Park, and then Canyon Rd. for the return.