pre's trail

Mon-ValleyGuy

If you are a runner or into Track and Field, this is a must do! Completed the long loop and enjoyed every step. I had the opportunity to run with my young nephew who kept the pace fast and provided a great narrative about all of the sites and facilities we passed, from the Willamette river to the U of O stadium and everything in between. Trail is well maintained and provides a beautiful setting and ambiance for a relaxed run. The best part was seeing and interacting with groups of current track and field athletes as we completed our run. What a great memory! I hope to return and complete many more laps of this trail named after one of the USA's premier middle-distance runners.

Mwright12345

Just finished a jog/walk on Pre's Trail. The trail is in perfect condition. Trees are starting their autumn colors. It rained yesterday. The warm sun today on the damp foliage emitted an earthy and intoxicating odor. The grey squirrels are scurrying throughout the park. Nearby the Autzen Stadium workers are preparing for the game between the undefeated #2 Ducks and the undefeated Arizona Wildcats.

ttrumbo

Had to run Pre's trail (maybe best distance runner in US history and an inspiration to many for his physical/spiritual 'effort'), since I'm from Fayetteville, Arkansas - the other track capital of America (@38 national titles). Very cool area, around Willamette River. I ran from the Downtown Inn and later from Timber's Motel. Not hard to get there. During our study of the Greeks and the Olympics, I showed my high school students the movie, 'Without Limits' (skipping a few 'inappropriate' parts and the ending, which I find a bit maudlin).Very well acted by Billy Crudup as Pre and Donald Sutherland as coach Bowerman. Great story, well told. I recommend it before you run the trail. One guy said something about a memorial; if I return I'll look for that. Pre would advise us to run 'all out' in our lives - it is a/our work of art.

ReneeDoss

Take something to leave. Others do. We left running shoes. Wished I had chalk to write on the rocks behind the memorial.

39DavidM39

A redwood bark chip trail in Eugene that is easily accessible from anywhere near the University of Oregon. There are 1, 4 and 6 mile loops. Most the trail is shaded so you can run without having the sun beat down on you throughout your run (or walk). If you are a runner, walker, or just wanting to get out and enjoy the fresh air in Eugene, this is a great place to go.

MidwstrnTrvlr

We stayed one night in Eugene on our vacation, and my daughter & I were thrilled to find Pre's Trail was within a couple blocks of our hotel (Residence Inn). The trail is very nice -- I'd love to have something similar in our home town. My daughter commented that your shoes would always be dirty -- the red wood mulch leaves quite a bit of dust/dirt on your shoes and legs, but I think the nice soft mulch is worth it compared to concrete. We had trouble finding good documentation for finding our way around and when we came to trail junctions, there weren't any signs to help you decide which way to go. Both my daughter and I got lost, but managed to find our way back to the beginning where we were to meet. I could have used a good trail map and better signage as a one-time visitor. Overall, how fabulous to have a trail created by Pre in an area he actually ran. It's awesome!

shellyinsaline

My husband and I are occasional runners and couldn't miss the trail while visiting. Wish the bathroom had been open but enjoyed the whole trail.

KyTMoney

Get your butt out there and run, you're in Eugene dammit. Running in the footsteps of greats. Keep your eyes peeled, you may see Cheserek.

GregMemphisR

Pre's trail starts near football stadium but can easily be picked up at numerous points including a short distance from campus and Franklin ave. Goes through woods and meadows and along river on a soft wood chip/bark path that was Pre's idea and put in after his death. I did get dive bombed by a blue jay or the like under one tree. I believe the trail is about 4 miles, a little longer maybe. But a great place to run and you'll see track studs to novice runners. Just do it!

AngelC42

I am a fledgling and very slow runner (and often end up walking), so the idea of running in Prefontaine's legendary footsteps was a little daunting, but I knew that I may never be back this way again so I decided to take a chance on this four mile run. It was a great dirt path that wound its way behind the University, through some wooded areas and in some open fields, past walker and runners of all abilities. It was a beautiful and inspiring run.

196shannons

The parking lot in Alton Baker park is the starting point of a great running trail that extends almost all the way to Springfield, paralleling the Willamette River. Pre's trail has history (posted at the beginning of the trail specific to Steve Prefontaine and his relationship with Eugene. The trail will take you by Autzen Stadium and the Autzen dog park, and through several openings of trees and grass on the way. I wouldn't recommend running or walking near Alton Baker park near dusk or dark, as safety and lighting is a concern - but during the day this is one of the best trails in Eugene.

RichieW974

Alton Baker Park, which includes Pre's trail is a local treasure. The trail is popular and it's common to see a world class athlete run by you. The path takes you through the forest, through the meadow and also by Autzen Stadium.

McJayhawk

Pre's Trail is a chipped bark/mulch trail that winds along near the river and Autzen Stadium. Your legs, shoes and sox will get dirty, but it really is easy on your legs. For runners 50+ who know the story of how Steve Prefonaine wanted something like this built and the city of Eugene built it after he died it is even better. Parts of the trail are pretty when the path takes you into the trees. If you are a long distance runner it is something your should do, like running up Heartbreak Hill in Boston.

RonHamilton_Canada

A memorial to running great Steve Prefontaine, this multiple loop wood chip trail emulates the trails Pre had run on and admired in Europe. Run or walk through various scenery, water, field, park. Washrooms on site.

TrailrunnerBill

Pre's Trail is well-maintained and scenic. It features lots of ducks, geese, and some herons, as well as crows, and sometimes osprey and other birds. Much of it is along a canal. It offers a 4 mile loop or shorter loops. One can park at Alton Baker Park or at the south gate of Autzen Stadium. In the 4 mile loop, you get a little of everything: some trees, some meadows, some open grassland with a view of the Willamette River. For runners or walkers who love birds, it's a terrific place.