The legacy of Steve “Pre” Prefontaine stretches beyond the walls of Hayward Field. One of the tributes that the city of Eugene has paid to arguably the biggest athletic star in University history was constructing a beautiful trail system in Prefontaine’s honor.
Pre’s Trail is located on the north side of the Willamette River in the shadows of famous Autzen Stadium. It is a figure-eight layout that stretches about four miles among tall trees, open fields and several pond-side and creek-side stretches.
One of the main conveniences of Pre’s Trail is the fact that it is not a typical concrete path that is hard on the knees of runners and walkers. Inspired by the European trails that Prefontaine loved so much, the trails are comprised of bark and wood chips that are a softer running surface.
Pre’s Trail is just one of many in the vast running trail system across Eugene, but it is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. The scenery is beautiful, and it allows runners to experience the nature that Eugene has to offer. The trail also passes Alton Baker Park which is a great spot to stop for a rest, sit on a bench and watch the ducks in the ponds.
Remembering Steve Prefontaine is an important thing to the Eugene community. Everyone knows where the trail is — and for runners there is nowhere better to stretch the legs and get a good run going.
While the trail is a favorite of locals and the University track team, one more thing is for certain: Pre would have loved it.