Run Away: Experience Davis on Foot

Stroll through downtown Davis or one of the city’s tranquil greenbelts and you are bound to encounter a runner. As ubiquitous as cyclists in this agricultural university town, it is no surprise that so many fitness enthusiasts head outside to exercise here. Davis is perfectly designed for a runner, be it a casual recreational weekend jogger or a serious marathoner. Its smooth, flat greenbelts and dirt farm roads beckon you to lace up and hit the path.

Running on one of Davis' many greenbelt paths

Photo Credit: Baxter Personal Collection

Not surprisingly, there is a healthy community of runners of all ages, abilities, and experience levels in Davis. The local running hub is the centrally-located Fleet Feet running store on 2^nd street, which hosts the Golden Valley Harriers running club. Members meet at the store three times a week for runs ranging in speed and distance. If group running isn’t your thing, then simply stop by the store to check out the selection of products and to speak with the friendly staff, which can help you with all and any running needs.

Head out to the city’s 50 miles of greenbelts and you’ll see the Golden Valley Harriers, high school cross country runners, and recreational joggers training for one of Davis’ numerous races. Most of these are organized by the local A Change of Pace Foundation, which has been directing top-notch races for over 30 years and offers events varying in length from 5K to half-marathon throughout the year. These include the Davis Stampede, the Davis Turkey Trot, and the popular Labor Day races.

                                                                                  The Davis Turkey Trot, a local favorite

                                                                                      Photo credit: A Change of Pace Foundation

If racing isn’t your thing, then there are plenty of opportunities for a leisurely run through the city’s charming streets and bike paths. For a scenic tour of Davis, try running a part (or all) of the Davis Bike Loop, a 12-mile route that showcases the best of the city. You’ll travel through the beautiful arboretum on the UC Davis campus, the leafy neighborhoods and community gardens in Village Homes, North Davis’ extensive network of greenbelts, and along the secluded Putah Creek path in South Davis. There is no better way to experience the city!

                                                                                         Davis Bike Loop street markings

                                                                                              Photo credit: davishomes2sell.com

For those looking to get away from it all, look to the outskirts of Davis to find dirt and gravel running paths into the surrounding agricultural fields. A popular route begins near Village Homes in West Davis, where the photogenic Olive Tree Lane takes runners and pedestrians to the tiny Yolo County airport and into the country beyond. Enjoy views of the coastal mountain range to the west as you make your way past the UC Davis agricultural extension buildings and to a levee that runs parallel to Putah Creek. From there, enjoy “Narnia”, Davis’ only single-track trail hugging the edge of the levee.

                                                                                      The beautiful Olive Tree Lane

                                                                                       Photo credit: BlueOakPhotos, flickr.com

After exerting yourself out on a run, stop by downtown Davis to refresh yourself at the various cafes and restaurants that line the tidy streets. Grab a coffee and a pastry at the popular Mishka’s Café or head to Pluto’s for a healthy salad or sandwich. For those looking to indulge, Burgers and Brew boasts the best burgers in town; alternatively, try Woodstock’s or Steve’s for mouth-watering pizza. Kick back, relax, and be confident that Davis will give you the best running experience you’ve ever had!