Turkey Trots in the Washington, DC area offer a great opportunity to enjoy time with your community and support some great organizations. Many races feature both timed 5K runs and more casual walks. Some even include a virtual option, so you can donate and race around your neighborhood without impacting Thanksgiving Day plans.
No matter your fitness level (or energy level on the day of Thanksgiving!), there is a chance to participate in turkey trots around the DMV and donate to organizations supporting our community. All races take place on Thanksgiving Day 2024 unless otherwise noted.
Neighborhood Race Routes
All turkey trots are in person this year, but many have virtual options or the chance to donate without racing. And let’s be real – getting up before 9 am on a holiday is hard for some of us! If you still want a 5k walking or running trail, here are a few options you can do on your own.
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The National Mall: Start at the Lincoln Memorial and walk straight across the mall to the National Air and Space Museum (round trip: 3.2 miles).
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The US Capitol: 2 laps around the US Capitol (3.2 miles). Start at Union Square and walk down 3rd Street SW, Independence Ave SW, 1st Street SW, and Constitution Ave SW.
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Rock Creek Park: The Historic Loop is an easy, dog-friendly 1.6-mile walk. Walk around twice for about the length of a 5K.
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10K with a river view: The Georgetown Loop is 6.7 miles or go the extra mile (literally) on the Anacostia River Walk at 7.8 miles. Both are dog (leashed) and stroller-friendly.
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Clopper Lake: Clopper Lake near Gaithersburg, MD is about 3.2 around the lake. It can get busy so plan your trip earlier in the day.
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Black Hill Regional Park: Slightly north of Germantown, get lost in the woods on this 3.8 mile loop. Dog friendly.
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Burke Lake Park: The loop around the lake at Burke Lake in Virginia is a little longer than a 5K (4.7 miles). However, it is a beautiful fall run (or stroll) plus it is stroller and dog (leashed) friendly.