The best running trails around East Riverdale
4.2
(24)
2,603
runners
96
runs
Jogging routes East Riverdale offer access to a variety of green spaces and extensive trail systems within Prince George's County, Maryland. The region features a wooded neighborhood feel with rolling terrain, characteristic of the Anacostia River watershed. Numerous parks and natural areas provide diverse landscapes for outdoor activities, including well-maintained paths and natural trails. This environment supports a range of running experiences, from leisurely jogs to more challenging routes.
Best jogging routes around East Riverdale
- The most popular jogging route is View of Paint Branch – Lake Artemesia loop from College Park, a 4.3 miles (7.0 km) trail that takes 43 minutes to complete, offering scenic views of Paint Branch and Lake Artemesia.
- Another top favourite among local runners is College Park Airport – Northeast Branch Trail loop from College Park–University of Maryland, a difficult 10.0 miles (16.1 km) path that follows the Northeast Branch Trail, providing a longer running experience through varied landscapes.
- Local runners also love the Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Hyattsville Crossing, a 9.2 miles (14.9 km) trail leading through the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, often completed in about 1 hour 32 minutes.
- Jogging around East Riverdale is defined by wooded neighborhoods, rolling terrain, and extensive trail systems, with options available for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in East Riverdale are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 2000 runners have used komoot to explore East Riverdale's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
13
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
runners
17.2km
01:46
30m
30m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
runners
10.5km
01:05
40m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around East Riverdale
Tips from the Community
Artemesia Lake, a 38-acre man-made lake, is named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who donated the area in 1972. The lake features a fishing dock, and it's common to see people enjoying various water activities.
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Lake Artemesia is a man-made lake, spanning 38 acres and surrounded by Lake Artemesia Park. The lake and the park are named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who in 1972 donated ten lots to the county for preservation as a public green space.
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College Park Airport, founded in 1909 as the military demonstration area for the Wright Brothers, is the world's oldest continually operating airport. From here, there is only a fence and a few lights between you and the beginning of the runway to this small airport. If you are lucky, you will catch a plane flying over your head as you walk by.
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Sweetgum is the largest picnic area at Greenbelt Park and is open to the public without reservations. It includes a baseball field, playground equipment, restrooms, and plenty of open space, making it the perfect starting and ending point for hiking the park's beautiful trails.
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This picturesque trail offers a beautiful loop with various alternate routes and signs, allowing you to extend or shorten your hike. As you wander, look for different woodpecker species, robins, and white-tailed deer, which love to graze in the open areas. This trail is a great option for families, as there are plenty of fallen logs over streams for kids to enjoy.
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The Dogwood Trail is a 1.5-mile loop through the forest that ends right back on the Perimeter Trail. The beauty of the trees and the ample shade makes it a perfect side trail to extend your hike, especially on a hot day. There are nice benches along the way, ideal for a place to sit and enjoy the tranquility of the woods.
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Lake Artemesia is a man-made lake, spanning 38 acres and surrounded by Lake Artemesia Park. The lake and the park are named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who in 1972 donated ten lots to the county for preservation as a public green space.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in East Riverdale?
East Riverdale offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 85 trails available for you to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy jogs to more challenging runs.
What kind of terrain can I expect on jogging routes in East Riverdale?
The jogging routes in East Riverdale are characterized by a 'wooded neighborhood' feel with rolling terrain, typical of the Anacostia River watershed. You'll find a mix of well-maintained paths and natural trails, offering diverse landscapes for your run.
Are there easy running routes for beginners in East Riverdale?
Yes, East Riverdale has several easy running routes suitable for beginners. There are 9 routes specifically categorized as easy, providing a gentle introduction to the area's beautiful green spaces.
Can I find longer distance running trails in East Riverdale?
Absolutely. For those looking for a longer run, East Riverdale offers several options. For example, the College Park Airport – Northeast Branch Trail loop from College Park–University of Maryland is a challenging 10.0-mile (16.1 km) path, perfect for an extended running experience.
Are there any circular running routes in East Riverdale?
Yes, many of the running routes in East Riverdale are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular example is the View of Paint Branch – Lake Artemesia loop from College Park, which offers scenic views over 4.3 miles (7.0 km).
What do other runners say about the trails in East Riverdale?
The trails in East Riverdale are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.3 stars from more than 10 reviews. Over 2000 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic views and well-maintained paths.
Are the running trails in East Riverdale dog-friendly?
Many outdoor areas in and around East Riverdale are dog-friendly. For instance, Greenbelt Park, located south of East Riverdale, welcomes leashed pets on its extensive walking trails. Always check specific park regulations before heading out with your furry friend.
Are there family-friendly running paths in East Riverdale?
Yes, East Riverdale offers several family-friendly options. The Lake Artemesia Natural Area Park features accessible paved paths around its 38-acre lake, making it a great spot for families and runners of all ages. The Riverdale Recreation Center also provides a large park with diverse options for physical activity.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the jogging routes?
Jogging routes in East Riverdale often pass through beautiful natural settings. You can enjoy views of Paint Branch and Lake Artemesia, especially on routes like the Lake Artemesia – Lake Artemesia loop from College Park. The area is part of the Anacostia River watershed, offering verdant landscapes and a thriving urban greenscape with trees like Tulip poplar and Red maple.
Are there any notable attractions near the running trails in East Riverdale?
While jogging in East Riverdale, you're close to several points of interest. The Capitol Reflecting Pool and the U.S. Capitol are within reach, offering iconic sights. For nature lovers, the extensive Anacostia Tributary Trail System and Greenbelt Park provide ample opportunities for exploration beyond just running.
What is the best time of year for running in East Riverdale?
East Riverdale's 'wooded neighborhood' feel and extensive trail systems make it enjoyable for running throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, but the tree-lined trails provide some shade. Winter running is also possible, though conditions may vary.
Are there running routes that provide views of water?
Yes, several running routes in East Riverdale offer scenic views of water. The Lake Artemesia Natural Area Park, for example, features a beautiful man-made lake, and routes like the View of Paint Branch – Lake Artemesia loop from College Park provide lovely vistas of both Paint Branch and Lake Artemesia.
Most popular routes around East Riverdale
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