The University of Alabama Arboretum and the surrounding area is one of the more scenic and enjoyable places to run in Tuscaloosa. Located about 4 miles east of the University of Alabama, the Arboretum consists of 12+ miles of walking trails, through a native woodland section, a wildflower garden, a collection of ornamental plants, an experimental garden, and a children’s garden. Create your own route on the combination of wooded and open trails. Note: Hours are 8am-sunset, admission is free.
Adjacent to the Arboretum is the former University of Alabama golf course, which is now a terrific spot for running, with its grassy fields and hills. It’s a popular location for cross-country races. You can also run the loop road around the VA hospital, which is ~2 miles.
Add-Ons: We also recommend running in the Woodland Hills neighborhood, just south of the Arboretum. There are pleasant, shaded, windy roads that are fairly quiet. Use Pelham Heights Rd. to access.
Note: It’s possible to run to the Arboretum from the main UA campus using University Blvd., but it’s not all that pleasant.
The University of Alabama Arboretum and the surrounding area is one of the more scenic and enjoyable places to run in Tuscaloosa. Located about 4 miles east of the University of Alabama, the Arboretum consists of 12+ miles of walking trails, through a native woodland section, a wildflower garden, a collection of ornamental plants, an experimental garden, and a children’s garden. Create your own route on the combination of wooded and open trails. Note: Hours are 8am-sunset, admission is free.
Adjacent to the Arboretum is the former University of Alabama golf course, which is now a terrific spot for running, with its grassy fields and hills. It’s a popular location for cross-country races. You can also run the loop road around the VA hospital, which is ~2 miles.
Add-Ons: We also recommend running in the Woodland Hills neighborhood, just south of the Arboretum. There are pleasant, shaded, windy roads that are fairly quiet. Use Pelham Heights Rd. to access.
Note: It’s possible to run to the Arboretum from the main UA campus using University Blvd., but it’s not all that pleasant.
Review or Comment on This Route/Share a Photo!
Share your feedback on this route and see that of other Great Runs users. Click on the image icon to upload a photo. And please let us know if there are notes or changes we should incorporate!