The sun is shining in Madison and it’s a perfect time to get outside. In Madison we are lucky to have many great running spots on or just off campus. Here are a few of our favorites:
Picnic Point Loop – 2.0mi
This loop is great if you’re looking for a quick scenic run. With much of this trail being shaded and lakeside, this is a great spot to go when it’s a scorcher out (but you still want to get a couple miles in). If you’re looking to extend this run, you can leave from Memorial Union and take the Howard Temin Lakeshore Trail to Picnic Point which would add an additional 3.6 miles there and back.
UW Arboretum – 5.3mi
The UW Madison Arboretum is an ecological research site and offers a wide array and flora and fauna. The trails are well marked and maintained making for an ideal running experience. If you’re lucky, you may see some of the wild turkeys and deer that call the Arboretum home.
Turville Point Conservation Park – 1.4mi
If trail running is more your speed this trail is a great option. Located in Olin Park just off John Nolen Dr and the Lakeshore trail, this loop offers a nice, secluded, wooded run. These grass and dirt trails are great for recovery runs or just a change a pace. Changes in elevation add an additional level of difficulty and interest. This trail is excellent if you’re looking for a shorter run but can easily be extended by doing multiple loops. *Quick note, this trail can get a little muddy after the rain, so maybe wear last season’s shoes.
We hope you get a chance to try some of these routes while the weather is still nice and look forward to seeing you on trails!