Three great trails near USF for walkers, runners and nature-lovers!
Summer is over and school is back in session. The gym is packed, every cardio machine occupied and the only time you have to work out is now. Whether you’re looking to get in a quick workout or just need a break from staring at the girl’s butt on the elliptical in front of you, there are many places around USF to get in quality exercise without having to go too far.
The USF Campus Recreation Fitness Trail is a 1.2 mile shaded dirt path located at the corner of Sycamore and Holly Drive. This spot is great for students looking to get in an easy workout without having to leave campus. The trail recently underwent renovations over the summer and is now equipped with new fitness stations. For more information on outdoor recreation activities available through USF, please visit the USF recreation homepage.
Starting at Fowler Avenue, right across from Leroy Collins Boulevard, is a 3.75 mile route that offers a variety of terrain, sights, and traffic. This route is great for those looking to get in a longer, more challenging run without having to drive anywhere. Starting from Fowler Avenue, the trail continues until 46th Street and then hooks a right. This street does not have a sidewalk until the residential areas, so be careful and aware of trucks, cars and other pedestrians. Continue down 46th Street, past Adventure Island and the residential areas until Busch Boulevard and make a right. Continue down this busy road until McKinley Avenue and then make another right. Take your mind off of the sounds of cars whizzing by and admire the sights. Roller coasters and waterslides from both Busch Gardens theme parks can be seen from the sidewalk. Keep following the road until Fowler Avenue up to Leroy Collins Boulevard to complete the full route. Those running or walking on residential roads are advised to run in the day time when they can be best seen by vehicles.
Flatwoods Park located on Bruce B. Downs Boulevard is best known for its 7-mile loop path. This beautiful, serene public park and wildlife preserve is only a few miles away from the USF campus. Runners, walkers, bicyclists and roller-skaters prefer this spot because of its quiet atmosphere and vast landscape — a big difference from built-up Tampa. The paved path is wide enough to be shared and offers water stations every two miles. Picnic shelters, grills and tables are available to be used by the public; however, the shelters come with a fee. Birds, reptiles, and other animals native to Florida can be viewed from the main path. Those looking for a more intimate encounter can use one of the many side trails into the woods. For more information on fees, parking and maps, please visit the Flatwoods Park website.
Escape the textbooks and the confined walls of the gym by enjoying some time outside. Physical exercise, such as cardio, is stimulating both to the body and the mind. It helps with stress, improving focus, and releases endorphins, the “feel-good” chemical into your brain. There is no limit as to where your legs can take you, so escape the white walls of the recreation center and try spending some time outside.