As the city shakes off summer’s heat and settles into the brisk routines of September, New York’s runners are reclaiming their favorite routes. On Monday morning, the familiar pack of marathon hopefuls looped the Central Park Reservoir, the Eldorado’s twin towers catching the first light above their steady strides. With the New York City Marathon looming later this fall, training partners and solo joggers alike are making the most of the city’s most scenic trails.

Central Park remains the undisputed heart of the city’s running culture—6 miles of winding roadways, wooded bridle paths, and the iconic 1.58-mile Reservoir track, where locals dodge tourists and the occasional film crew. “You get everything here: hills, flat stretches, and that unbeatable skyline,” says Carmen Lee, a Brooklyn-based charity runner spotted stretching on the East Drive before sunrise.

But as every borough shakes off the back-to-school torpor, runners are spreading out. In Queens, the tree-lined paths of Flushing Meadows Corona Park have seen a surge in after-work joggers, especially around the Unisphere. Staten Island’s FDR Boardwalk is drawing early evening crowds, its ocean breeze a welcome contrast to the urban hum. Meanwhile, the Bronx River Greenway offers a leafy escape for those craving a quieter route north of Fordham Road.

For those training in Brooklyn, Prospect Park’s 3.35-mile loop is a Tuesday evening battleground of pace groups and stroller-pushing parents, while Red Hook’s waterfront paths have become a go-to for runners chasing sunset views over the harbor. Even Roosevelt Island’s riverside promenade is seeing new life as nearby residents lace up after long days at the office.

Whether you’re tackling double-digit miles or just unwinding with a two-mile jog, there’s a stretch of city pavement or parkland calling your name this season. In a city defined by movement, September is when New Yorkers hit their stride—one foot in front of the other, carving out space on sidewalks and trails as autumn takes hold.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best running routes in New York City this September?

Central Park, Prospect Park, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the FDR Boardwalk, the Bronx River Greenway, Red Hook’s waterfront paths, and Roosevelt Island’s riverside promenade are highlighted as top running routes this September.

How long is the Central Park running loop and Reservoir track?

Central Park offers a 6-mile loop and a 1.58-mile Reservoir track.

Which running routes are popular in Brooklyn?

Prospect Park’s 3.35-mile loop and Red Hook’s waterfront paths are popular running spots in Brooklyn.

Where can I find quieter running routes in the Bronx?

The Bronx River Greenway provides a leafy and quieter escape for runners north of Fordham Road.

What running spots in NYC are good for sunset runs?

Red Hook’s waterfront paths and Roosevelt Island’s riverside promenade are emerging as popular sunset running spots.

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