The best running trails around Kean University

There are over 50 jogging routes around Kean University, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find 7 easy routes, 39 moderate routes, and 12 more challenging options to explore.

Yes, several easy routes are perfect for beginners. A popular choice is the Weequahic Park loop — Newark, a flat 2.2-mile (3.5 km) path around the lake. The historic Liberty Hall Campus also offers beautifully manicured gardens suitable for shorter, scenic jogs.

The terrain varies significantly. Near the main campus in Union, you'll find urban park loops and accessible paved paths. If you venture to the Kean Skylands campus, expect more natural, wooded trails with a rural setting, including a lake and forest views. Routes like the Washington Rock loop from Maplewood offer varied terrain with some elevation gain.

Absolutely! The Kean Skylands campus offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and an elevated skywalk. For natural attractions, you might encounter highlights like Lower Echo Lake or even Hemlock Falls if you explore routes further afield. Many routes also pass through parks with pleasant natural features.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops for convenience. The Weequahic Park loop — Newark is a prime example, offering a circular path around the park's lake. Another option is the Nomahegan Park Wooden Bridge loop from Union County, which provides a scenic circular run.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 2.5 stars from over 3 reviews. Runners often praise the variety of options, from easy urban park loops to more immersive wooded trails, and the accessibility of many paths. The scenic sections, like those in Nomahegan Park, are also frequently highlighted.

While many routes are shorter, you can combine paths or choose longer options for extended runs. The Washington Rock loop from Maplewood is a good example of a longer route, spanning 6.3 miles (10.2 km) with varied terrain, suitable for those looking for a more substantial run.

Yes, if you're looking for elevation, routes like the Washington Rock loop from Maplewood offer noticeable elevation gain. The Kean Skylands campus, situated in the New Jersey Highlands, also provides a more varied natural landscape that can include more challenging inclines compared to the flatter urban parks.

Several parks offer excellent facilities. Weequahic Park and Nomahegan Park are popular choices, often featuring amenities. The Kean Main Campus also has the D'Angola Gym/Recreational Center with an indoor jogging track and the Alumni Stadium for outdoor athletics.

Many routes are very family-friendly, especially the easier, paved loops in local parks. The Weequahic Park loop — Newark is a great option for families due to its flat terrain. The historic Liberty Hall Campus gardens also provide a pleasant and safe environment for walks or light jogs with children.

The Kean Main Campus in Union is well-served by public transport. Many nearby parks, such as Weequahic Park, Cranford, and Kenilworth, are also generally accessible via local bus routes, making it possible to reach various running loops without a car. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific park access.

Parking is typically available at the larger parks that host running trails, such as Weequahic Park and Nomahegan Park. For the Kean Skylands campus, dedicated parking facilities are available for visitors. On the main Kean campus, visitor parking is usually provided, especially near athletic facilities or the Liberty Hall Campus.