The Loop Race

The Loop Race is Philadelphia's oldest running race, a local cult favorite since Dave Brier of the Jewish Y started it in 1972. The 8.4-mile course follows the Schuylkill River Trail entirely on sidewalks, completely self-contained and free of traffic. Runners pass iconic landmarks including the Rocky Statue, the Art Museum steps, East Falls Bridge, Laurel Hill Cemetery, Strawberry Mansion Bridge, and Boat House Row on a nearly flat route. Proceeds support the development and maintenance of Fairmount Park, specifically the Belmont Plateau cross country courses used by thousands of runners each year.