One of my favorite runs is around the perimeter of the U.S. Naval Academy.  Our son taught there a few years back and so there were many opportunities to tour the grounds by foot.  Now, he and his family live in Annapolis so it's still an easy matter -- once you find parking -- to get on base and run.

 This route starts in downtown Annapolis and enters through the main gate.  When you are on foot, just a photo ID is needed for access.  Once through the gate, swing right and head out on the perimeter loop.

Off to your right is Annapolis harbor and the yacht club so often you'll see some of the sailing activity that this area is famous for.  On your right are the practice fields so depending on season, you may see football players or new plebes getting a workout.

Passing the Academy's sailing fleet, continue along the waterfront.  You very well may pass the training ships used to teach midshipman ship handling. Watch out for their loud horns -- I've had a couple sound off just as I went back -- probably to see the old guy jump!

Up ahead, you'll spot the handsome Naval Academy bridge over the Severn River.  You can take a shortcut over the footbridge and run the gravel perimeter of the seawall.  This is a popular crabbing spot so you're likely to run by folks dangling chicken parts angling for crabs.

Heading back you'll see the large cemetery through which running is prohibited.  Climb the hill toward the hospital and cruise down to the main road (Bowyer Road) and head up toward Gate 8.

The rest of the route is on sidewalks along busy streets but the return along King George Street is picturesque.  There are a number of great coffee shops and places for post-race snacks in the downtown harbor area. 

top photo by roryfinneren     lower photo from FreaksAnon

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You may have to dodge strollers, novice cyclists, or "take the whole trail" tourists, but the recreation trail in Monterey is one of the prettiest routes I've ever run. It's a perfect place to observe nature, people, and historic places while getting some good exercise.  When our son and his family lived in Monterey, I tried to get out on this route several times each visit.

This run is about 5.8 miles long and can be lengthened or shortened easily. I like to park in the municipal lot just off the state beach and head toward Pacific Grove. You'll head up past kayak rental outfits, the marina and into the heart of the old historic town.  The tile-roofed Custom House (1827) and  Fisherman's Wharf are spots you'll likely want to visit later.

As you head northward on the paved path, you will pass the Defense Language Institute at the Presidio and probably see some runners from the school out getting their workouts in.  Another attraction along the way is Cannery Row and its plethora of shops and food venues.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a wonder and worthy of a visit or two at another time.  The foot traffic should calm down once you're beyond it.

The coastline is marvelous as you approach the turnaround.  Between the rock formations, the wind-battered cypress trees, and the old Victorian houses, there's lots to look at as you run.  This is, as you can tell, not a route to set personal records on -- it's a route to relax, cruise, and enjoy the surroundings.

The return is a chance to see some of the sights you missed on the way up -- to stop for a drink at one of the public water fountains, and perhaps take a detour and cool down walking up Fisherman's Wharf and gawk at the commercial and recreational fishermen.  

This route is also great for walking.  You can rent bicycles at several spots and if you paddle, find a number of great kayaking spots.  This recreation path is truly a run to remember.

top photo by Steve Longus    Cannery Row photo by gailf548      bottom photo by MGShelton

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