The Best Colleges for Runners in the U.S.

Written by
ACTIVE.com

For runners of all ages, college campuses provide an ideal combination of well-kept paths, incredible architecture and beautiful landscapes. Still, we wondered, who’s the best? What universities have that perfect medley of climate, runability and nearby trails, to ultimately set themselves apart from the rest?

Taking a myriad of factors into consideration, we worked to build a weighted formula to help determine the top 20 schools for runners. And, in the end, the list is a refreshing mixture of colleges you’d expect to see, along with others you might have been sleeping on.

So, without further adieu…

20. Southern Methodist University
Dallas, Texas
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Located just five minutes from downtown Dallas, Southern Methodist University makes the cut thanks to its renowned campus beauty, with an assist from the neighborhood that surrounds it. Picking out your preferred McMansion as you pass through Highland Park is the perfect distraction for your post-class late afternoon run. 

The Campus Run

At the break of dawn on the Hilltop, you can see students, as well as nearby residents, running up and down the sprawling green Boulevard. Some ambitious folks will even run up and down the Dallas Hall stairs for a little bit of extra elevation. Despite being nicknamed the "Hilltop," the SMU campus run is as flat as it gets. Basketball coaching legend Larry Brown can also be seen on the Boulevard for his daily walks. 

Parks & Paths

Blessed by moderate temperatures from September to May, SMU students get to run outside for most of the year and take advantage of two key running paths in Dallas. The Katy Trail, which begins just a quarter-mile from the edge of SMU's campus, is a 3.5-mile paved trail open to cyclists, runners, joggers and dog-walkers. From SMU, the Katy Trail can be followed all the way to the American Airlines Center, home of the Dallas Mavericks and Stars. Also directly off the Katy Trail is the Katy Trail Ice House, a popular beer garden and restaurant.

For those runners who want some nature without leaving the city, White Rock Lake is just seven miles outside of downtown and boasts some of the best views in Dallas. The hiking and biking trail is approximately 9.5 miles long and is located next door to the Dallas Arboretum. 

In Da Club

While SMU does not have a "club" running team, they do have a running club that is just a casual group of students who organize when they go on runs together. The Dallas Running Club, meanwhile, is a very popular (and cheap!) club for Dallasites to join if they're looking for a little more structure to their running program. Members get access to eight free charity race events and the certified coaches offer a 16-week training program. 

Local Flavor

SMU prides itself on its beautiful, new, red brick buildings, constant expansion and its $1.5 billion endowment. With a very active undergraduate student body of approximately 6,400 students, there's always some kind of sporting event happening or intramural game to play in.
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19. University of San Francisco
San Francisco, Calif.
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You'd be a fool not to take up running as a student at the University of San Francisco—the school's campus is located on a 55-acre swath of land between the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park. Who could resist those stunning Bay Area vistas?

The Campus Run

The classic five-mile loop of Golden Gate Park has everything you need in a pre-study hall run: mostly paved trails, shoreline views, a waterfall and, hey, if you're lucky, even the occasional buffalo.

Parks & Paths

Where do we begin? Crissy Field is the popular choice for Frisbee tossing, jogging, touch footballing, selfie taking, you name it—but gets packed in warm weather. Opt, instead, for nearby Ocean Beach, just west past Golden Gate Park. The view along the Great Highway can't be beat, and the trail is rarely crowded, leaving you plenty of space to stop and admire the view.

In Da Club

The question isn't why should you join a local San Francisco running club, but rather, which one should you join. Run Club SF and the Golden Gate Running Club are both extremely active in the area, but by no means the only options. No matter which club you choose, you'll find plenty of opportunities to socialize with fellow runners, join trail and road runs and even get some speed work in with regular track workouts.

Local Flavor

Just over the Golden Gate Bridge is Sausalito, a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Follow this 4.8-mile route for one of the best urban runs in the country—just don't forget cash for the ferry ride home.

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18. Indiana University
Bloomington, Ind.
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Regularly voted one of the most beautiful campuses in the country, Indiana University is a great place to take up running, whether you stick strictly to on-campus routes or venture out into nature-filled Brown County. Either way, it won't be long before you start calling yourself a Hoosier.

The Campus Run

Indiana's main campus is spread over a whopping 1,933 acres, in Bloomington, Ind., and almost all of the buildings are made from Indiana limestone, giving the campus its distinct look. As you make your way on foot, you'll likely cross the lazy Jordan River, run through Dunn Meadow and make your way across the Arboretum. Don't get too distracted by all the green space, though—you still need to hit Sample Gates, the Indiana Memorial Union and the Showalter Fountain.

Parks & Paths

This quintessential college town supports the university whole-heartedly, but that doesn't mean it lacks its own flair. Bloomington has over 1,200 miles of bike and running trails, so even the most avid runner won't get bored. The B-Line Trail is a classic with students, and, at 3.1 miles long, you can really master your 5K time. If you're looking to get out of town, Brown County State Park is only a 10-minute drive from campus and offers numerous options for trail running.

In Da Club

The IU Run Club combines a little bit of competition with a whole lot of fun, so it's ideal for the competitive runner as well as the one who just wants to stay in shape. Practice is not mandatory—you can go as often as you want and run as far as you want. If you're interested in regular competition, though, the club competes in a number of cross-country races that will introduce you to the true beauty of the Midwest.

Local Flavor

Take a stroll down Kirkwood Avenue to get the feel of Bloomington, a place where funky mixes with classic small-town charm. On Kirkwood you'll see a mix of college dive bars, independent coffee houses, breakfast spots, restaurants and boutiques, all of which make Bloomington feel like home for its almost 50,000 students.
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17. Notre Dame
South Bend, Ind.
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The Fighting Irish occupy more than 1,200 acres of prime Midwestern real estate a stone's throw away from the sharp eastern turn of the St. Joseph's River that gave nearby South Bend, Ind., its name. Couple that with a mere 45-minute drive to the banks of Lake Michigan, and Notre Dame is set up for some of the best running—and recreation in general—a college student could hope for.

The Campus Run

For Notre Dame students, finding a scenic running route is as simple as taking a lap around campus. The 3.8-mile route passes a nine-hole golf course and farm fields along the way; a 2-mile detour on the trails around St. Mary's and St. Joseph's Lakes include classic sites like the Golden Dome and the Basilica of the Scared Heart.

Parks & Paths

A local favorite, the Riverwalk is a 5-mile pedestrian and bike-friendly loop along the St. Joseph River; the western end features a blooming garden packed with perennials, while the eastern end rushes dramatically over a dam. Meanwhile, Potato Creek State Park boasts 10 miles of paved trails passing through woodlands, prairies and wetlands.

In Da Club

Notre Dame's running club went co-ed in 2014 and maintains a busy practice and racing schedule throughout the year. The club caters to both beginners and advanced runners, alike, and promotes the physical, emotional and social benefits of running through companionship, challenge and competition.

Local Flavor

Around 30 years ago, the abandoned East Race Waterway was converted to the nation's first whitewater rafting course. Do a little cross-training by renting a raft or bringing your own to paddle Class II rapids in the middle of downtown South Bend.
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16. University of Houston
Houston, Texas
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Houston is known for a lot of things—energy, food, rodeo, space exploration, sprawl and humidity, to name a few. Its runability, on the other hand, isn't as widely known. So it may come as a surprise that the University of Houston appears on this list at all. But the school has a lot going for it, starting with the city for which it is named being tabbed by Forbes Magazine as "America's Coolest City." It's also the most ethnically diverse city in the nation, which is reflected in the university's student body. It's a good time to be a Cougar!

The Campus Run

The U of H campus is situated just minutes from downtown, on a pedestrian-friendly 667 acres. But when you're not running on campus, you can make use of the nearby Brays Bayou Greenway, which connects nearly a dozen parks across an impressive 30 miles of uninterrupted hike and bike trails.

Parks & Paths

The Brays Bayou Greenway is just scratching the surface of paths to run in the city. One of the most popular spots is Buffalo Bayou Park, with an 8-mile loop and a skyline view, but plenty of bridges for shortcuts. Other notable locations for running include Hermann Park and Memorial Park, which are well-lit, shaded and dotted with drinking fountains along the way.

In Da Club

There's no official running club at the university, but there's no shortage of clubs to get running with in the city.

Local Flavor

The Run Houston! Race Series is five races intended to showcase the offerings unique to the Houston metro. Included in the series is the Run Houston! University of Houston 5K/10K, further entrenching the school's ties to this runner-friendly metropolis.
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15. University of Hawaii
Honolulu, Hawaii
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Ah, the University of Hawaii—home of the Rainbow Warriors and mainland defects who vacationed to Hawaii and never left (but enrolled in classes to appease their parents). But seriously, how could Hawaii not make this list? UH is located in Mānoa, an affluent neighborhood of Honolulu, and has nearly 20,000 students enrolled.

With some breathtaking views and an 81 percent acceptance rate, why wouldn't you want to go to—and run at—the University of Hawaii?

The Campus Run

While there are plenty of scenic routes to take around the University of Hawaii, a round trip from the campus to the Honolulu Zoo, down the coastline and back can be finished in just five miles.

Parks & Paths

What do you do when the entire state is an exotic trail? Explore. Will you take the daring trip around the three-mile Mānoa Cliff trail, or take in the two-mile Mānoa Fall trail?

In Da Club

The Mid-Pacific Road Runners club based in Honolulu is Hawaii's largest running club. The MPRRC organizes more than 20 races per year and welcomes runners from 5K newcomers to marathon level.

Local Flavor

The University of Hawaii owns The Lyon Arboretum and the Waikiki Aquarium. The latter is the third-oldest public aquarium in the U.S., located next to a living ocean reef. Visit Pearl Harbor and take in a Rainbow Warrior football game in the off-campus Aloha Stadium.
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14. Gonzaga University
Spokane, Wash.
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Spokane, the second most populous city in Washington, has been selected three times in the last 41 years as an All-America City. Most recently, in 2015, it was named to the Top 10. Spokane—and the premier university in its city limits—are about as All-American as it gets.

The Campus Run

Gonzaga boasts plenty of handsome areas around campus to keep things fresh every week, including the Centennial Trail that runs through campus near the law school. The 37-mile long trail has east and west endpoints, with a central point at Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane.

Parks & Paths

Riverfront Park is the city's biggest and is located just a few minutes from campus. Those who opt for a more sensory-centric experience can take a jaunt to Manito Park and Botanical Gardens. The formal gardens have duck-filled ponds and plenty of walking paths.

In Da Club

The Gonzaga Running Club hosts weekly runs ranging from two to five miles. In addition to the collegiate club, there are several Spokane-area options to help you get your running fill.

Local Flavor

The Lilac Bloomsday Run is an annual timed road race that attracts international competition. The 7-mile race has been held on the first Sunday in May since the 1970s, and regularly has more than 40,000 participants.
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13. North Carolina State
Raleigh, N.C.
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Raleigh, N.C., is home to Carolina hot dogs, the sweetest sweet tea and a craft brew scene that is the envy of neighboring southern cities—all of which is easier to enjoy after taking advantage of the seemingly endless supply of trails and scenic paths at the disposal of NC State students.

The Campus Run

There are a myriad of paths for runners to select from on NC State's main campus, and the close by Centennial campus is growing its share of walking and running trails, too. The nearest option is the Rocky Branch Trail, which runs the length of the NC State campus and offers a wonderful view of the Raleigh skyline.

Parks & Paths

Raleigh, itself, has more than 70 miles of greenway trails. The aforementioned Rocky Branch links to Pullen Park, which features aquatics and arts centers, among other offerings. From the eastern end of Rocky Branch, the Walnut Creek Trails span more than 19 miles through Raleigh. An unpaved portion of the path on the western end, through Lake Johnson Park, offers views of wildlife, including turtles, a number of birds, trees and more.

In Da Club

The North Carolina XC & Track Club is well maintained and organized, and welcomes runners of all abilities to run competitively or for the sheer pleasure of the social component. The club practices in the evenings five days a week, so it is plenty accessible for students trying to work around busy schedules.

Local Flavor

Raleigh is the halfway point between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, but don't try to run this route. At a 10-minute mile pace, without stopping, it would take you approximately 72 hours to get from the mountains to the sea. So, unless you're Forest Gump…
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12. UCLA
Los Angeles, Calif.
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UCLA receives more freshman applications than any other U.S. university, so runners at the Los Angeles-based university can expect some company along their routes. The perks of living in LA are well-documented, but perhaps no college neighborhood in the country tops Westwood Village.

The Campus Run

Let's start with the fact that the UCLA campus features three gardens and some of the most beautiful landscaping in the world of higher education. Frankly, UCLA's hallowed grounds often seem more museum, less college—but it's an extremely runner-friendly campus, nonetheless. UCLA Magazine published two preferred campus running routes: the perimeter route (3.9 miles) and the night route (3.5 miles).

Parks & Paths

While many other universities boast a series of parks and trails near campus, none but UCLA has published routes called the "Fresh Prince of Bel Air" (7.04 miles), the "Playboy Mansion Loop" (6.85 miles) and the "Santa Monica Pier" (6.39 miles). All told, the UCLA running club lists 13 recommended routes, including Holmby Park and Stone Canyon—both of which feature cups that runneth over with quintessential Los Angeles charm.

In Da Club

The UCLA Club is among the most well-organized and well-respected running clubs in the U.S. But, because it's Los Angeles, the options hardly end there. From the L.A. Leggers—whose primary objective is to train members for the Los Angeles Marathon—to the more socially-focused L.A. Running Club, runners looking for a group to call their own will find an abundance of options.

Local Flavor

UCLA's 113 NCAA Division I team championships are more than any other school.
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11. Columbia University
New York City, N.Y.
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Lost in the well-publicized hustle and bustle of New York City is the fact that the Big Apple stands as one of the most runner-friendly cities in the U.S. The combination of charming neighborhoods, phenomenal parks and breathtaking views available to runners in NYC is practically unrivaled. Never is that sentiment truer than for runners near Columbia University.

The Campus Run

The Columbia University area of Manhattan provides students with convenient access to Central Park, Morningside Park and Riverside Park. The first is a classic NYC route that can be stretched out over six miles amidst fellow runners, a few hills and some amazing scenery.

Parks & Paths

Given CU's location, the campus run and local paths bleed together. In addition to the Central Park routes—as well as Morningside and Riverside—runners who take off from Columbia can knock out a five-mile run from 112th Street, down to 96th Street, onto the Cherry Walk, and then hook up with the new-ish Greenway Extension.

In Da Club

The official running club of CU is none other than the Columbia University Road Runners. The Road Runners meet almost daily for group runs, with both undergraduates and graduates of assorted running backgrounds mixing in an all-inclusive environment. Together, the group runs New York Road Runners races together.

Local Flavor

New York City is only about 300 square miles in size, but is the most densely populated city in the U.S. Its five different boroughs each possess their own distinct feel and personality.
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10. University of San Diego
San Diego, Calif.
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The University of San Diego gets a considerable boost from being a university located in, you know, San Diego. Given its proximity to Mission Bay Park and a series of gorgeous beaches—not to mention virtually perfect weather year-round, students at USD can't resist spending the bulk of their time outdoors. Who could blame them?

The Campus Run

There's a reason Nike chose the University of San Diego campus as one of 16 sites to host its annual cross country running camps. USD is consistently recognized as one of America's most beautiful campuses, but the run gets even better as students travel northwest—particularly towards Mission Bay.

Parks & Paths

Among the most famous running trails in the U.S., Mission Bay is low on hills and big on waterfront views. USD's location also lends itself to trips downtown, where Balboa Park awaits with a 10K course comprised mostly of dirt—knees and joints, rejoice.

In Da Club

The USD running club is among the top club programs in the country. The tight-knit group is extremely well-organized and well-represented. Of course, because it's San Diego, off-campus options abound—including the San Diego Track Club and the West Coast Road Runners.

Local Flavor

California's second largest city sees 300 sunny days and an average daily temperature of 71 degrees. Summertime highs rarely reach 80 degrees.
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9. Georgetown University
Washington, D.C.
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There's a reason Washington D.C., took first place in our Fittest U.S. Cities of 2016 article, and Georgetown University is no exception. With running paths throughout the city and around the university, plus a 200 meter three-lane Mondo track at the school's Yates Field House, there's no wonder this school is also one of America's best running colleges.

The Campus Run

Georgetown University, founded in 1789, is one of the oldest schools in the nation. The campus is full of rich history—Healy Hall is a National Historic Landmark—for runners to take in. The university is in the middle of the Georgetown neighborhood, so you can easily take your run from the campus to the city streets. The campus connects to multiple trails and waterfront paths that make it easy to train for longer runs.

Parks & Paths

Connections from Georgetown to the rest of Washington D.C. are numerous, meaning you can quickly cover the 2.5 miles from the university campus to the White House. Other connections to nearby parks include the Foundry Branch Valley Park, the Friends of Georgetown Waterfront Park, Dumbarton Oaks Park and the Glover Archbold Park.

In Da Club

The Georgetown Running Club welcomes all who love to run. Affectionately named Run GRC, they say the simplest way to join the club is just to show up to one of their practices with a completed Club Travel Waiver. The form can be found on their website, along with a guide to running through Georgetown.  

In addition to the Georgetown Running Club's races, they also volunteer with a number of organizations, including Back on My Feet, Relay for Life, 185 for Heroes and the MORE Foundation.

Local Flavor

Washington D.C. is home to one of the biggest marathons in the country, the Marine Corps Marathon. The United States Marine Corps organizes the marathon, with participants from all 50 states and around the world.
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8. University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio
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Underrated no more, the University of Cincinnati—and the city of Cincinnati in general—is, in fact, a runner's dream setting. The Ohio River provides the perfect backdrop, while the vast variety of routes keeps things fresh for even the most avid runners.

The Campus Run

Founded in 1819, the UC campus is home to some incredible gothic architecture. The most heavily trafficked winding route through campus takes students into the Burnett Woods and through the Cincinnati Zoo. Where else can you make a casual pass by the giraffe exhibit at mile five?

Parks & Paths

Eden Park and the Botanical Gardens are both top notch options, east and north of the UC campus, respectively. But, for something really special, runners head south towards the Ohio River.

Paul Brown Stadium and the Great American Ballpark serve as the breathtaking beacons of the Stadium Loop, taking runners alongside the river and winding them between two of the most recognizable stadiums in pro sports. For the best view of Cincinnati, runners can leave the state—yes, really—crossing the bridge into Kentucky, and turn around at Devou Park for an awe-inspiring look at the cityscape.

In Da Club

Simply put, the UC Run Club is one of the best. The group ran five NIRCA sanctioned events—along with three local races—during the fall of 2016. Open to everyone, the club meets at the same place (by the track) at the same time (5:15 p.m.) daily.

Local Flavor

The Eden Park Loop is home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and the Krohn Conservatory.
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7. UNC Charlotte
Charlotte, N.C.
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Looking for a campus with 1,000 wooded acres just eight miles from a busy city? The University of North Carolina at Charlotte might be for you! UNCC has more than 23,000 undergrads and they compete in NCAA DI in Conference USA with 17 varsity sports. The 49ers are known for being a very active student body with clubs for virtually any athletic activity you can think of.

The Campus Run

If you're on UNC Charlotte's campus you have to check out the Mallard Creek Greenway. It's a paved trail that runs from W.T. Harris all the way through campus and provides runners with an abundance of nature and wildlife otherwise rarely seen within the city. Anyone can bike, run, jog, walk, or skate the Greenway.

Parks & Paths

There are plenty of places to run around Charlotte if you're willing to venture outside of campus. Try the infamous Booty Loop near Queens University or go for a run by the RibbonWalk Nature Preserve.

In Da Club

At UNC Charlotte, the running club meets five days a week—that's the most commitment you'll ever see out of a college student. They are an open group and have runners of every type of performance level. Charlotte is also home to the Charlotte Runners, the largest running club in the area, which boasts more than 5,000 participants. They have nine weekly meet-ups, so there's never an excuse to skip a run.

Local Flavor

Founded by elite runners Scott Dvorak and Eric Hichman, the Charlotte Running Company has several locations in and around Charlotte and was named one of the 50 best running stores in the country in 2014.
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6. University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pa.
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The University of Pittsburgh is a handsome campus, with the stunning Cathedral of Learning as its centerpiece. The building mimics neoclassical design and juts up an impressive 535 feet, making it the tallest educational building in the United States—which comes in handy when you're running around campus and need to find your way.

The Campus Run

There are plenty of great running opportunities on or around campus. A favorite with students is Schenley Park, which was founded in 1889 and boasts an impressive 456 acres of trails, woods and attractions for exploring.

Parks & Paths

In addition to Schenley, Frick Park sits just to the east and features 644 acres of lush woodland that serves as a quiet sanctuary from the noisy city. If you prefer a run with a little more hustle and bustle, travel a few miles north of campus to Lawrenceville, through Highland Park and by the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium.

In Da Club

The Pitt Club Cross Country team is competitive, so its practices are geared predominantly for racing. But there's no attendance requirement for those who want an outlet for running and social interaction, even if you don't intend on racing. The Steel City Road Runners club also offers a non-collegiate option for those who want to make connections in the city.

Local Flavor

P3R (Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon, Inc.) is a nonprofit organization intended to promote the love of long distance running and community involvement throughout the city. It hosts a number of running events, from Pet Walks to marathons, so there's no shortage of excuses to get moving.
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5. Northwestern University
Evanston, Ill.
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With 12 schools and colleges and over 100 undergraduate degrees available, Northwestern University is one of the top schools in the country for academics and research, but that doesn't mean it's sleeping on its running game.

The Campus Run

Northwestern has numerous campuses but its base is in Evanston, Ill., located on Lake Michigan, making for some seriously beautiful running. The bread and butter of your run will be Sheridan Road, which takes you through most of campus. Don't miss University Hall, which was constructed in 1869 and is the oldest building still standing. If you're hoping to run closer to the lake but still stay on campus, check out the "lakefill" for some short, paved paths that will get you right next to the water.

Parks & Paths

If you're looking to get off campus, we recommend the nine-mile Green Bay Trail, which runs parallel to Chicago's commuter rail line, just north of the city. A true multi-purpose trail, you'll see both joggers and cyclists on your run, and you'll even pass restaurants, stores and parks as you go. The best part? You're never far from the lake, so you can take a quick detour for waterfront views.

In Da Club

Don't be fooled by its name—the Northwestern Track Club features both cross-country and track distances. The club competes in about four meets each season, usually with other collegiate club teams, but you aren't required to compete if you don't want to. In fact, the club emphasizes its openness, so you can join no matter what kind of running you want to do. The team is extremely active and runs most days of the week.

Local Flavor

Evanston's city center is right next to Northwestern, so you can easily walk from campus to the best downtown restaurants, shopping malls and independent boutiques. And if you're still looking for a taste of something bigger, you can commute directly to the big city—Chicago—via train.
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4. Creighton University
Omaha, Neb.
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When you think of Omaha, Nebraska, you might think steaks, farms and Midwestern living, but thanks to Creighton University, you can also think running.

The Campus Run

Creighton's campus occupies a short but sweet 140 acres, and there are some definite hot spots you won't want to miss on your run, including the classic Creighton Hall and the beautiful St. John's Church. As you make your way through campus, don't forget to take in the history—the bones of the campus were first constructed in 1878, so what you see has been in the making for well over a century.

Parks & Paths

If you're looking to get off campus, we recommend you head to the Omaha Riverfront Trail, which gives you unbeatable views of the Missouri River and the Omaha skyline. The trail runs for about 20 miles, too, so if you're training for a marathon, you'll have plenty of long-distance options. If you're looking for less city life and more nature, head on over to the Wabash Trace Nature Trail where you can take in the more scenic parts of the Iowa–Missouri border.

In Da Club

The Creighton Running Club is alive and well, thanks to running-obsessed students who practice at least four times a week. The club is open to all types of runners, so if you're into competition or just looking for a fun, group-centered way to stay in shape, this club is for you. The club also actively participates in local races, so you'll feel part of the larger community.

Local Flavor

Creighton sits next to Omaha's booming business district, which is home to a number of big institutions, including five Fortune 500 companies. You'll also note that Omaha is home to the College World Series and the Henry Doorly Zoo, its two largest tourist attractions.
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3. University of Wisconsin
Madison, Wisc.
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To say that Madison, Wisc. is one of America's top college towns due to things like the university's over-the-top school spirit, abundance of cheap watering holes and quirky traditions would be to overlook perhaps its greatest asset: 200 glorious miles of hike and bike trails for students of the University of Wisconsin to while away the hours in lieu of studying.

The Campus Run

Students can walk out of class and onto their daily run by picking up the Lakeshore Path at Memorial Union Terrace. The entire path is 19 miles long along the shores of Lake Mendota, but students use the scenic views at Picnic Point as the perfect turnaround point for a 5-mile out and back route.

Parks & Paths

As one of two U.S. cities located on an isthmus, the area surrounding the university is stocked with plenty of surreal scenery (in no small part due to the glaciers that sculpted the area thousands of years ago). With 29 miles of paths, Devil's Lake State Park has something for everyone, from climbing rock formations and bluffs to winding grassy trails and wooded paths. Meanwhile, the views at Blue Mound State Park can't be beat, with observation towers at each end offering panoramic views of the Lower Wisconsin Riverway and Baraboo Bluffs.

In Da Club

The UW running club tackles trails, marathons, adventure races—you name it, a member of the cardinal and white is likely there. Started in 1986, the club meets one to three times a week for short, distance and hill workouts; members get discounted entry fees at local races, a 10 percent discount on gear and plenty of chances to socialize at free events hosted by the club.

Local Flavor

State Street, the main artery of campus, is your quintessential university drag: Packed with coffee shops, restaurants and bars, it also makes for a classic run for those who enjoy their jog with a side of people-watching. Try it early on a spring Saturday to avoid the crowds, and you'll get the bonus of seeing one of the largest farmers markets in the United States.
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2. Harvard University
Cambridge, Mass.
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Coastal elites have been duking it out for dominance over decades, and the running category is no exception, so it's only fitting that Harvard University comes in a close second to (spoiler alert) a west coast university. As the oldest college in the country, its reputation for academic excellence is well-known, but its running superiority may be a little less evident.

The Campus Run

One of the benefits of attending a school like Harvard is the beauty of the campus, including the paths along the Charles River. Additional recreational favorites include the Fresh Pond and Danehy Park, as well as routes up and down Massachusetts Avenue.

Parks & Paths

If you go for a run at Harvard, you probably get your feet wet along the Charles River. The paths and bridges that trace the river provide great opportunities for runners to create loops of varying distances. Other local favorites include Fresh Pond, just two miles from Harvard Square, and Danehy Park, a 50-acre recreational area that used to be a city landfill. There aren't any remnants of the latter's past usage—so don't be afraid to breathe deep on those runs through the park.

In Da Club

The Harvard running club consists mostly of undergrads, but welcomes grad students, faculty and staff to its ranks. The club has six practices per week to choose from.

Local Flavor

We've gone all this way without even mentioning surrounding Boston, home of the world's oldest annual marathon and one of the best-known racing events in the world—the Boston Marathon. If you love running, you might be one of the half-million spectators who show up each year to get a glimpse of the elites while aspiring to qualify yourself one day.
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1. University of Washington
Seattle, Wash.
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Located in one of the world's true running meccas, the University of Washington has it all. Believe it or not, it doesn't rain 24/7 in the Emerald City—more like 5/3—and the year-round climate is perfect for runners. With a campus that overlooks Lake Washington and Puget Sound, the school's natural surroundings are unrivaled—and that's without even considering the city it calls home.

The Campus Run

Where to begin? The north-end trails, the UW waterfront trails, the Burke-Gilman Trail—on-or-near-campus running paths at UW are so plentiful that students could literally switch things up daily without ever running the same path twice in a week.

Parks & Paths

The Huskies have an embarrassment of riches, but let's focus on the headliners. The aforementioned Burke-Gilman Trail can be accessed directly from the UW campus; in total, a down-and-back from end-to-end is full marathon distance, tracking through a myriad of Seattle neighborhoods along the shoreline of Lake Washington. Equally popular is the Washington Park Arboretum, where students can start in the quad and head south, crossing Montlake Cut, East Montlake Park, and Marsh and Foster Islands before wrapping around Duck Bay—all the while with Seattle's beauty on full display.

In Da Club

The Husky Running Club is top notch, and allows anyone who submits a liability waiver to join in on the fun. The club has a full online running schedule, elects officers, and runs five different routes with three different distance options—all of which have detailed maps available for interested runners.

Local Flavor

Running heavyweight Brooks also calls Seattle home. The company deploys one of the city's most well-known and well-respected running clubs, the Brooks Beasts.
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