Running in Pasadena
Did you know Pasadena has over 300 sunny days each year, making it one of the premier destinations for outdoor enthusiasts looking to lace up their running shoes amidst stunning scenery and historical landmarks?
The Rose Bowl Loop
Location and Terrain: The Rose Bowl Loop encircles the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium. This 3.3-mile loop offers a flat, asphalt path, perfect for runners seeking a straightforward, uninterrupted run.
What to Expect: The Rose Bowl Loop is most popular in the early morning and late afternoon. Regulars on this loop include casual walkers and competitive runners, creating a lively, communal atmosphere. Weekends bring larger crowds, so early morning weekdays are best for those preferring a quieter run. If you go on Tuesdays or Thursdays, you’ll see the Rose Bowl cyclists zoom past you.
Special Features: This area has ample parking and is easily accessible, making it a hassle-free choice for those with tight schedules. The loop’s proximity to the Kidspace Museum, Aquatic Center, and Brookside Park offers a perfect excuse to combine a family outing with your running routine.
Eaton Canyon Natural Area
Eaton Canyon Natural Area is a top choice for Pasadena runners seeking diverse trail experiences, from easy, flat paths to challenging upper trails with steep inclines. The area’s native plants and wildlife enrich the serene environment, perfect for an immersive run. The park’s highlight, a stunning waterfall, offers a scenic spot for mid-run refreshment.
However, Eaton Canyon is notably busier on weekends, particularly Saturdays and Sundays, when the trails can become crowded, sometimes prompting temporary closures to manage the visitor influx. For a more peaceful experience, consider running early in the morning or weekdays to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
Under the Colorado Street Bridge
The area under Pasadena’s Colorado Street Bridge offers a unique and scenic running experience. Known to locals as the “Arroyo Seco,” this picturesque canyon features a network of trails that follow the natural contours of the streambed, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. These trails are part of a larger network spanning several miles, catering to runners of all skill levels with paved and dirt paths.
Running under the Colorado Street Bridge offers shade, cooler temperatures, and stunning views of the grand arches—an architectural marvel dating back to 1913. The area is rich in history, wildlife, and natural beauty, making it a popular spot for recreational and serious runners. The trails here are well-maintained, with clear signage and periodic benches for rest. Runners can enjoy the lush surroundings and the gentle sounds of the Arroyo Seco stream, which add to the tranquil ambiance of the trails.
Historic Route 66
Route Overview: Running along Colorado Blvd and its portion of Route 66 through Pasadena is like jogging through a piece of living history. Route 66 takes you through Pasadena’s main streets and offers a mix of urban scenery and historic sites.
Historic Highlights: Key landmarks along this route include the famous Colorado Street Bridge and the Old Pasadena district, where quaint boutiques and cafes line the streets, offering perfect spots to rest or refuel.
Running Tips: For those interested in history, consider downloading an audio tour or map of Route 66’s landmarks to enhance your run with stories of the road’s heyday.
Running the Rose Parade Route
Course Details: The Rose Parade route, stretching over 5.5 miles, traces much of Colorado Boulevard and offers an expansive, flat road ideal for setting personal bests or enjoying a leisurely jog.
Year-Round Attraction: While the New Year’s Day parade features floral floats and marching bands, the route is accessible year-round for runners. It’s lined with numerous cafes and shops, which provide pleasant diversions for post-run relaxation.
Visibility and Safety: The route is well-lit and frequently patrolled, making it a safe option for early morning or evening runs.
Pasadena Pacers Running Club
Community and Support: The Pasadena Pacers, established in 1996, is a cornerstone of the local running community. The club supports runners through structured training programs for various distances and skill levels.
Meeting Points and Group Runs: The Pacers meet several times a week at various locations, including the Rose Bowl, offering structured runs that cater to different training needs. Newcomers are always welcome, and finding a running buddy is almost guaranteed.
Events and Socials: Besides regular runs, the Pacers host social events and participate in local races, providing a vibrant community connection.
Routes by Historic Buildings and Landmarks
Scenic Runs: For those interested in architectural beauty, routes along Orange Grove Boulevard showcase stately homes from the early 20th century. Jog past the historic Pasadena City Hall or Gamble House and take a selfie with buildings appearing in television shows and movies.
Planning Your Route: Customizing your run to pass these historical sites can be done using local maps or apps highlighting Pasadena’s landmarks. Each run can become a mini-exploration of a new part of town.
Run on Raymond Ave
Raymond Avenue offers a historically rich route for runners in Pasadena, passing several landmarks that trace back to the city’s early days. One of the most iconic sights along this route is Castle Green, an architectural gem built in 1898 as part of the luxurious Hotel Green. Now a private residence and event space, its ornate façade and lush gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for runners and a glimpse into the time when Pasadena was a winter resort for the nation’s elite.
As you continue down Raymond Avenue, the route takes you past Central Park and Memorial Park, the two oldest parks in Pasadena. These Pasadena parks offer scenic green spaces perfect for cooling down, community events, and summer music performances.
Further along Raymond Avenue, runners encounter the site of Pasadena’s first public library, an important cultural landmark. The original building, no longer standing, was replaced. However, the original entryway is still there.
Nearby, the Armory Center for the Arts, originally built as an armory in 1932, now serves as a focal point for visual arts in the community. This stretch of Raymond Avenue, rich with historical and cultural significance, offers runners a unique opportunity to connect with Pasadena’s past while engaging in their fitness routine, making every run a physical activity and a journey through the heart of the city’s heritage.
Running while safe: Pasadena’s wildlife
Pasadena’s natural beauty is home to several types of wildlife, including coyotes, raccoons, owls, bats, squirrels, snakes, and various bird species. While encounters with wildlife can add a thrilling element to your run, staying safe is important.
Always keep a respectful distance from animals, avoid running with headphones in secluded areas so you can remain aware of your surroundings, and never feed or attempt to touch the wildlife. Additionally, running in well-traveled areas during daylight hours can reduce the likelihood of unwanted encounters.
If you encounter larger wildlife, like coyotes, make yourself appear larger by raising your arms and slowly walking away without turning your back. Carrying a whistle or having your phone handy can help you deal with unexpected situations safely. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy Pasadena’s outdoor beauty while ensuring your safety and the well-being of the local fauna.
Running Pasadena’s Hidden Stairs
Pasadena’s hidden staircases are a delightful secret for those looking to add a different dimension to their urban runs or walks.
The hidden stairs at Brookside Park are a favorite among Pasadena locals. They offer a serene yet invigorating escape right next to the much-frequented Rose Bowl area. Just behind the Aquatic Center, these stairs are part of a quieter, more secluded section of the park, providing a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful workout environment away from the busier park paths.
Climbing these stairs challenges the body and rewards runners and walkers with stunning views of the surrounding parkland and the distant San Gabriel Mountains.
FAQ
What are the best running spots in Pasadena, CA?
The best running spots in Pasadena include the Rose Bowl Loop, Historic Route 66, the Rose Parade route, and various scenic trails throughout the city.
How long is the Rose Bowl Loop?
The Rose Bowl Loop is approximately 3.1 miles long, and it provides runners with a scenic view of the stadium, surrounding hills, and lush greenery.
Can I run along Historic Route 66 in Pasadena?
Yes, you can run along Pasadena’s section of Historic Route 66, which offers a unique running experience with vintage signs, classic cars, and charming roadside attractions.
Can I run on the Rose Parade route?
Yes, you can run on the same route as the Rose Parade, which takes place along Colorado Boulevard. This allows you to experience the beautifully decorated floats and the energy of the parade while running.
Is there a running club in Pasadena?
Yes, the Pasadena Pacers Running Club is a local running group that welcomes runners of all levels. They offer regular group runs throughout the city, providing support and camaraderie.
Are there any historical buildings to see while running in Pasadena?
Yes, while running in Pasadena, you can explore the architecture and history of several iconic landmarks, including Pasadena City Hall, Pasadena Civic Center, Colorado Street Bridge, The Gamble House, The Tournament of Roses House, Pasadena Playhouse, and the United States Court of Appeals.
Should I be cautious of wildlife while running in Pasadena?
Yes, it’s important to be cautious of the local wildlife in Pasadena, including coyotes and rattlesnakes. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid running alone in remote areas, stay on designated trails, carry bear spray or a whistle as a deterrent if necessary, and maintain a safe distance if you encounter wildlife.
