Wellesley College Campus, Lake Waban, Crosstown Path

Wellesley is a fantastic suburb for running, with quiet, tree-lined side streets, lovely homes, and the gorgeous Wellesley College campus at its western end. Note: Campus might be closed to the public due to Covid, check here for updates.

Wellesley College/Lake Waban: The 500-acre campus of Wellesley College is a living arboretum, with miles of paved paths winding by specimen trees, ponds, and tasteful buildings. The college campus was designed by the famed landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted. Especially pretty in autumn! A highlight is the 2.75 mile path around the perimeter of Lake Waban, which has lovely water and campus views (some sections with rocks and tree roots). Combine the lake loop with a do-it-yourself run on Wellesley’s paths. There’s also a wonderful running track on the northern edge of campus. For even more miles, the enjoy the beautiful, quiet residential streets adjoining Wellesley College.

Wellesley Crosstown Path: Wellesley is a fantastic suburb for running, with many quiet, tree-lined side streets and lovely homes. Even better, the Crosstown Path, which runs for 5.4 miles from Newton Lower Falls, past Wellesley College to the Needdham Border, is a hidden gem. There’s a great running track at Wellesley High School, mid-point of the Crosstown Path.  ROUTE MAP

Residential Streets. Some favorite sections are the quiet residential streets near Wellesley College. Further east, using Route 16/Washington St. as an anchor, run on Cliff Rd. (north side of Rt. 16) and the side streets off of it, and Abbott Rd. (south side of Rt. 16) toward Babson College. Also, very nice streets near the Wellesley Lower Falls train station.