Morgantown is not only a college town but also a great place for outdoor exercise.

While looking at the list of trails recommended by the WVU Campus Recreation team, I wanted to check them out for myself. To cut to the chase, it exceeded my expectations. I underestimated this small town, but for those who love running, it actually offers many great conditions.

Thanks to its location at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the natural scenery of the trails is definitely different from other cities. You can run along the river, walk through wooded paths, and there are plenty of options. Exploring Morgantown's trails freely, like a Thunderbird, is my way of staying healthy in this city.

The first place I recommend is the Mon River Trail system. It connects a total of 48 miles of non-motorized trails, including the Mon River, Caperton, and Deckers Creek Rail-Trail. It's recognized nationally, even being listed in the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame. The 8-mile section between Morgantown and Star City is paved, making it suitable for inline skating as well.

The section running along the Monongahela River has stunning views. I've run there on weekend mornings, and there were a variety of people, from local residents to WVU students. I appreciate the atmosphere where everyone enjoys at their own pace rather than competing in a breathless race. It's a neighborhood trail that we can be proud of for being in the Hall of Fame.

White Park, located just 5 minutes south of downtown, is also a must-visit. It features a 4-mile rustic trail suitable for both hiking and running. Dorsey's Knob Park requires a short drive south of Morgantown, but the views are breathtaking. Running while enjoying the panoramic view makes you forget the effort.

Falling Run Greenspace is a 60-acre urban nature space on the outskirts of the campus, with a total of 2.6 miles of trails available for hiking and biking. The fact that it's free to use from dawn until sunset is another advantage. Having this level of natural environment so close to the city is one of Morgantown's hidden gems. If the path to exercise already offers great scenery, that itself becomes motivation.

The WVU Core Arboretum has 91 acres with 3 miles of trails, featuring over 80 species of trees and 150 species of shrubs. It's more suited for brisk walking or light jogging than running. Edith B. Barill Riverfront Park, Marilla Park, and Mylan Park each have their own unique features. The Cheat Lake Trail runs nearly 5 miles along the water, providing a constantly changing view that keeps it interesting.

If you're looking for a more intense run, you can head out to Coopers Rock State Forest. With over 50 miles of trails, you won't get bored. Although Morgantown may seem like a small town, it's hard to find a place with this level of outdoor exercise infrastructure. For those who love running, Morgantown can be a much better option than you might think. The abundance of open spaces for running is truly a gift from Morgantown.

If I had to pick the best course for each season, the riverside section of the Mon River Trail is undoubtedly the best in spring and fall, while White Park or Falling Run with their tree shade are great in summer. In winter, when the snow falls, the cross-country ski course at Coopers Rock offers a unique experience. A city where exercise and nature blend so well, Morgantown feels like one giant outdoor gym the more you live here.