As a very amateur runner, at times my motivation to run wanes. I’m not the type to run around a track and quite frankly dread the treadmill. Luckily, living in Plymouth, my running route entices me to get out there to run. My Plymouth running route takes me by the sea which never fails to enthrall me. The ground I trek on my three-mile route is the same as that of the Indigenous people and early settlers to the region. It has become a popular tourist destination. Depending on the season, the event, or even the time of day, there is always something interesting on my route.
I don’t dread the gym. It’s fine. A couple of weight machines, the treadmill, the stairclimber– those are means to an end of staying somewhat in shape. But they do not excite me. Granted, as a bit of a seasonal outdoor runner, Planet Fitness does the trick in arctic or rainforest temperatures.
The Plymouth Running Route Begins
Starting out from home, my route dips me toward Brewster Gardens, as I run alongside Town Brook, the freshwater source for the newly arrived Pilgrims. At times, this section starts off slowly since the path is mostly single file. Emerging from the second underpass, I am now in Brewster Gardens. Although this park is quite stunning, with monuments and shrubbery throughout, I take it in quickly as I run over the bridge and under the portico.
Crossing Water Street, I run along the water’s edge at Pilgrim Memorial Park. My first glimpses of the ocean can’t help but take away the worries of the day. With the breeze coming off the water, this Plymouth running route never gets old. Skirting by Plymouth Rock and dodging the tourists, I head toward the Mayflower II.
Finishing the loop, running along the esplanade can be tricky. Weaving between sets of people or a quick dash on the side of the road are my options. My choice depends on the time of day and season, due to the crowds. Along the route are installations in the Scallop Roll such as the orange scallop with the PLYMOUTH logo.
Options for the Run
I can either keep by the coast, along the backside of Woods Seafood and Lobster Hut, and continue in back of the Harbormaster and by the boat ramp or continue on the street. Either way, eventually back on the sidewalk, my next destination is Nelson Park. Passing by the frolicking children in the splash pad and playground, I then run by the beach, occasionally stopping. Here the rail trail, also known as the Grace Trail, begins. This trail ends at Cordage Park. If I want to continue for a large loop, I will do this. Most often though, I turn around at Robbins Wharf. Tracing my steps back, this Plymouth running route by the sea totals three miles. The ocean views at the early part of the trail are lovely.
Sometimes I mix it up and run through downtown by favorite restaurants and stores. This running route by the sea though also passes fantastic businesses including Local Roots, Plymouth Bay Winery, and the Pillory Pub.
Truly, my Plymouth running route by the sea never gets old. Enjoying it in every season (unless it gets too warm or cold), I witness the ebb and flow of Plymouth tourists. I pass by the regulars: a group of men each morning in the summer, chatting over coffee on the esplanade, dog walkers, and fellow runners also out for an excursion. Harbor views and the beachside vistas await on this backyard road trip.
For a visitor looking to enjoy this route either walking, running, or biking, park at the free town lot at the end of Spring Lane close to the Plimoth Grist Mill. Follow the path through Brewster Gardens and out onto Water Street for this wonderful route.
