Newark (Newark, DE) offers a surprisingly good environment for walking and running.

The university campus is located right in the heart of the city, allowing easy access to the grassy areas and walking paths, making walking along Main Street a part of daily life. The surrounding natural environment is well-equipped, providing various options for those looking for more serious exercise.

The first recommended spot is White Clay Creek State Park. Located south of Newark, this park features over 37 kilometers of hiking and trail courses.

With varying intensities and lengths, you can choose a course that fits your purpose, from a light stroll to a long hike. The Riverside Trail, which runs along the river, is flat and scenic, making it popular among beginner joggers. Parking is either free or has a small fee, and you can get a map at the park entrance.

The University of Delaware campus is also a great walking route. Just walking around the well-maintained campus covers a significant distance. Especially during spring when cherry blossoms and forsythias bloom, a stroll around the campus is even more enjoyable. The loop course that goes from Main Street, through the center of the campus, and back to Main Street is about 3 kilometers, making it a good route for a light warm-up.

The Newark Rail Trail is a paved trail converted from an old railway line. Its flat surface makes it accessible for strollers, bicycles, and wheelchairs, making it suitable for families. This trail connects parts of downtown Newark and the surrounding areas, allowing for exercise without traffic congestion. Trail information can be found on the Newark city website.

Lums Pond State Park is also a good outdoor exercise location, located about a 20-minute drive from Newark. The course around the lake is popular, and you can enjoy a light walk or jog in a quiet natural setting.

Although Newark itself is a small town, there are several state parks within a 30-minute drive, providing ample outdoor exercise opportunities. If you want to establish an exercise routine, alternating between White Clay and Lums Pond is a great strategy to keep things interesting.