Where To Run In Narragansett? The Options Are Endless!

Although Narragansett does not have a specific path dedicated to non-motorized traffic, there is no shortage of terrific running routes for those looking to hit the road. Whether you prefer to enjoy the spectacular coastline, stroll through quaint neighborhoods or pass by historic landmarks while you jog, you will find what you're looking for in this scenic beach town.

There are a few out-and-back runs of varying distances that begin at the majestic Narragansett overlooking . If you head south on Ocean Road and run approximately 3 miles, you will end up at ; turning around and running back to the Towers will give you a picturesque six-mile route of fairly flat terrain with a few rolling hills.

If you're looking for a similar view but a shorter distance, go south on Ocean Road from the same starting point and turn around at the De La Salle Christian Brothers sign for a four-mile out-and-back route, or at Point Judith Country Club for a three-mile out-and-back route.

The annual that begins near the Salty Brine Beach in the Port of Galilee is another out-and-back course with both impressive views and pieces of Narragansett's history. Follow Sand Hill Cove Road past Roger Wheeler Beach to Point Judith Road (Rt. 108), then take a right and head south until you see Aunt Carrie's restaurant. Here, take a right on Ocean Road, which will take you to the site of the Point Judith Lighthouse, situated on U.S. Coast Guard Station property. There is a turnaround in the road here, easily allowing you to change directions and follow the same route back to the beginning for a mostly flat five-miler.

If flat isn't your thing, try this: begin at the Narragansett Town Beach South Pavilion and head north on Boston Neck Road (RI Rt. 1A). At Twin Willows Restaurant you will have run 3 reasonably hilly miles. Turn around and head back to the beach for a challenging 6-mile out-and-back run. Turning around at Old Boston Neck Road (where there is a sign for Camp Varnum) will cut the distance in half, but still give you hills with which to contend.

Finally, the popular Blessing of the Fleet road race incorporates much of Narragansett's beautiful scenery in its 10-mile course. While the race starts on South Pier Road at the Narragansett Pier School, it ends elsewhere, near the Narragansett Towers. However, you can start and finish your run at the school, while following most of the race route, for a run that is a little over 8 miles.

Here's how: from the entrance to the school grounds head west for about 8/10 of a mile, then take a right at Ocean Road. Follow this road for almost 4 miles; a short distance after Scarborough Beach you will take a right on Knowlesway. When that intersects with Point Judith Road (Rt. 108) at St. Mary's Church, you will take a right and stay on Point Judith Road for almost 2 miles until you get to Windermere Road. Go right here, then take a quick left on Old Point Judith, a quiet stretch of road on which you will stay for about 3/10 of a mile until you hit Kinney Road; here, take a right. Follow Kinney for a little over a mile to Gibson Avenue, which, after 4/10 of a mile, will intersect with South Pier Road. Take a left to end up back at the Narragansett Pier School, where you began.

Each route mentioned here begins at a location that offers public parking, though spaces may be harder to find in peak tourist season. As always, remember to be aware of your surroundings, and never run anywhere or any time you do not feel safe, especially when you are alone. Better yet, grab a buddy and explore Narragansett on foot together!