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Running in Boston

Home of the world's oldest annual marathon. Boston is a historic running city with challenging hills and passionate running culture.

Temp Range

10°F to 95°F throughout year

Terrain

Hilly with historic cobblestones

Best Season

April (Marathon) & September-October

Seasonal Gear Guide

Winter (Dec-Feb)

20-40°F

Cold, snowy, icy sidewalks

What to wear:

Thermal base layersInsulated jacketTrail shoes with gripReflective gearHand warmers

💡 Watch for icy cobblestones in Beacon Hill and Back Bay. The Esplanade is usually well-maintained.

Spring (Mar-May)

40-65°F

Variable, rainy, muddy trails

What to wear:

Light layersRain jacketArm sleevesLight gloves for early spring

💡 Marathon training season! The crowds thin after Patriots Day in April.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

65-90°F

Hot, humid, occasional thunderstorms

What to wear:

Moisture-wicking singletShort shortsSunscreenHydration packChafe prevention

💡 Humidity is brutal. Run early morning along the Charles for river breeze.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

45-65°F

Ideal running weather, beautiful foliage

What to wear:

Long sleeve or short sleeveLight tights or shortsWindbreaker for late fall

💡 Prime marathon season! Perfect temps and stunning fall colors on the Emerald Necklace.

Popular Running Routes

Charles River Esplanade

17 mi

Iconic loop along both sides of the Charles River, flat and scenic

Emerald Necklace

7 mi

Chain of parks from Back Bay Fens to Franklin Park, beautiful foliage

Boston Common & Public Garden

2 mi

Historic downtown loop, great for short runs and tourists

Minuteman Trail

10 mi

Paved rail trail from Cambridge to Bedford, flat and car-free

Boston Running Tips

  • •Heartbreak Hill: Train on hills! Boston Marathon's famous hills start at mile 16. Practice Newton hills for authentic training.
  • •Cobblestones: Watch your ankles in Beacon Hill and the North End. Trail shoes with good grip help on wet cobblestones.
  • •Marathon Qualifying: Join a local running club like the Boston Athletic Association or Heartbreakers for group training.
  • •Patriots Day: The third Monday in April is a holiday. Plan ahead for race day crowds and road closures.

Boston Essential Gear

Trail Running Shoes

$120-180

Marathon Training Watch

$200-400

Reflective Running Vest

$25-50

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