Eugene, Oregon has earned the title of Track Town, USA for a reason. A complete map of our numerous local tracks and trails is available through the OTC (Oregon Track Club). If you are a runner new to Eugene, Oregon don’t miss out on the abundance of great locations for runners to enjoy here in Track Town, USA! The following are just a few of the most popular trails and running locations within Eugene, Oregon:
Alton Baker Park & Pre’s Trail: Within the 400acres of Eugene, Oregon’s Alton Baker Park, Pre’s Trail was built by the city to commemorate the death of University of Oregon runner Steve Prefontaine, who held seven American track records. This European style para course winds through the park, with interpretive signs along the way to inform visitors about the trail and its namesake. There are also bike paths located along the riverbank which are amenable to running as well as bike riding. A fun aspect of Eugene’s largest developed park, are the unmarked footpaths located throughout the park, known to the local runners as “The Goat Trails”.
Lane Community College Trail: Lane Community College is home to the annual State Cross Country Championships every fall. In addition to some nature trails behind campus, Lane Community College is also a good location for a short run: Beginning in the rear parking lot, there is a 1.25-mile path, which is marked each quarter mile.
Mount Pisgah Trail: Located near the college, just off Seavey Loop, is Howard Buford Recreational Area. Mt. Pisgah Trail offers a variety of experiences. More seasoned runners can enjoy climbing the trails to the summit of Mt. Pisgah, navigating single track trails to the top. For a less challenging route, beginners can run along the wood-chip trails at the base of the mountain which pass through the lush arboretum and along the banks of the Willamette River.
Ridgeline Trail: This is a challenging trail which winds, snakelike, along a wooded ridge in South Eugene. A great reward for navigating this rugged trail is the amazing view of the city below.
Amazon Trail: A smooth, bark chip trail. One mile long, this trail is a great place for interval running. Part of the trail is lighted at night, which is can be a plus for safety during evening runs.
Rexius Trail: A flat and pleasant cedar chip trail, Rexius Trail is popular with local runners. It is located along the Amazon Creek in South Eugene. At the southernmost tip of the trail, is a muddy trailhead for those who enjoy a rougher, more secluded path. Many of those who run on the Amazon Trail prefer to cut through mid-run, to the bike path which connects to Rexius Trail.