Course Information
Run Details | Logistics | Course Map | Rules
The course is an 8.4 mile loop on a paved path (you can run on trail & grass too,) the whole way around. There are no major climbs (hell, maybe 100 feet TOTAL each loop of gain). On the Kelly Drive side, there is small dirt path that runs next to the paved path. In addition, on the West River Dr/MLK side, they usually close a good part of the road in the springtime cyclists, rollerbladers and runners. This runs next to the paved path, as well. Lloyd Hall, where the loop starts and finishes is located towards the end (or beginning) of Boathouse row. From here, runners will run up a small climb and veer right in front of the famous Rocky Statue and Philadelphia Art Museum. It is here where the only tricky part of the course is, as you have to cross Spring Garden Street (there is a crosswalk) to get onto the Schuykill River Trail. You will know you are going the right way if you go UNDERNEATH part of Spring Garden Street about 200 feet after you cross the crosswalk. Now that you are on the River trail, just continue running straight. You will go down a slight, gradual decline with fantastic water views the whole way. At night, it is beautiful. Keep running straight, you will pass a couple of small boathouses, parking lots and go underneath a few bridges. At about 4 miles in to the loop, you'll go up a slight incline (honestly, its not much at all) and make a RIGHT onto the Falls Bridge. It's a giant steel bridge. You are only on the bridge a short time (maybe 1/4 of a mile long) before making a right onto the Kelly Drive side of the Schuykill River Trail. From here, if you need it, there is a BP gas station convenience store on your left, across Kelly Drive after about 1/4 of a mile or so, with a Dunkin Donuts, too. Keep going straight on the Schuykill River Trail. You will start to pass by parking lots on your right with boat ramps. Be smart and remember, there MAY BE cars turning in here, so LOOK! We do NOT have anyone stopping cars -- so you are on your own. As you keep going down the trail, you will eventually hit Boathouse row, so expect to see people here, especially during the daytime. It is very beautiful and quite scenic on this stretch. SLOW DOWN and watch out for the people. As soon as you pass Boathouse row, you will be back at the start of the loop! At Lloyd Hall, there are restrooms. They are NOT open 24 hours. If you have to go after the sun goes down, you are on your own. Again, exercise caution and be discreet. COURSE MAP IS AVAILABLE HERE |