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My Favorite Park (Ever)

I haven't been everywhere, but so far the Rockefeller State Park Preserve is my favorite park for running. I lived in NYC for five years, so of course Central Park has a special place in my heart, but let me tell you a few reasons why Rockefeller State Park Preserve's got the edge:

  • Pedestrians only (no pesky bikers or cars)
  • Peaceful (not crowded once you get away from areas closest to the main parking lots)
  • Stunning, diverse scenery (from views of the Hudson River, to running through farmland, to spotting tortoises and hawks)
  • Incredible in every season (see fall photo below)
  • Soft surface (hello happy joints!)
  • Hills, hills, hills (your body will thank you later, during a tough race)
  • Vast (I mean, who doesn't need to get lost on a 20-mile run?)
A gorgeous 50-degree, sunny fall morning at the Rockefeller State Park Preserve.

That last point ("vast") is something I cannot emphasize enough. You could run 20 miles in Rockefeller State Preserve without crossing the same spot twice. The trails are uninterrupted--I only crossed the street once on my 13 mile run this morning--and, at least for me, the only obstacle is yourself. As I mentioned in the first bullet, there are only other pedestrians. You will encounter enough people so that you do not feel completely alone, but will largely be left with your thoughts. 

I highly recommend Rockefeller State Park Preserve for training runs. Training runs are meant to be taken at an easy pace, whatever that means for you, and the hills will not only humble you but will also help ensure that you do not take on the run too fast. At the same time, the soft surface will give your joints a break as you pack on the mileage. Just be sure to bring your own hydration and nutrition. The only water fountain I've come across is at the main parking lot, which is also where the (legitimate) bathrooms are (if you know what I mean ;)).

The Run Down


  • Type: Running route
  • Distance: Whatever you want...seriously, easily can become a 20-miler
  • Location: Pleasantville, NY
  • Terrain: Hilly with soft surface (mostly dirt)
  • Hydration/nutrition: This is the one thing this park lacks--there's only water fountains by the main parking lot (by bathrooms and by visitor's center)
  • Bathrooms: Only the one by the visitor's center...but there are plenty of deserted woods around the trails if you have a "gotta go right now" situation
  • Other conditions to consider: Even on a sunny day, I would not recommend wearing sunglasses as the park is very wooded for the most part...even once the leaves have fallen, there are plenty of shadows you should be mindful of.
  • Recommended? (Heck) yes. This is a runner's paradise if I've ever seen one.
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Location: Rockefeller State Park Preserve, 125 Phelps Way, Pleasantville, NY 10570, USA

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