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United States
California
Yolo County

Université de Californie à Davis

Routes
Hikes
United States
California
Yolo County

Université de Californie à Davis

The best city hikes and walks around Université de Californie à Davis

4.8

(4)

178

hikers

7

hikes

Urban hiking trails around Université de Californie à Davis traverse a landscape characterized by cultivated gardens, serene riparian areas, and accessible campus pathways. The region offers a mix of flat, paved routes within the university grounds and natural settings along Putah Creek. These urban environments provide opportunities for easy walks and exploration of diverse plant collections and local wildlife.

Best urban hiking trails around Université de Californie à Davis

  • The most popular urban hiking route is UC Davis Arboretum Trail

Last updated: July 8, 2026

4.5

(2)

58

hikers

#1.

UC Davis Arboretum Trail

7.14km

01:49

20m

20m

The UC Davis Arboretum Trail offers a delightful and easy escape into a vibrant botanical world, perfect for a leisurely stroll. This 4.4-mile (7.1 km) route, with a negligible 54…

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

maniboyflex
November 26, 2023, Lake Spafford

Lake Spafford is a segment of the original channel of Putah Creek, with a trail system that goes around the lake. It’s an artificial lake created as the result of dredging back in the 1870s when the city was still being developed.

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Traveler
October 13, 2019, Lake Spafford

Midsize lake along a former stream in Davis Arboretum. The waterway, built in 1968-69, occupies what used to be the north fork of Putah Creek, which brought floodwater to the town then known as Davisville. A dredging effort in the late 19th century diverted most of the flow to a channel known as the south fork of Putah Creek. In 1948, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built levees at the north fork's mouth (the west end); the levees completely eliminate flow in the north fork. Whereas the original north fork flowed east, the waterway flows west. This is the result of dredging and grading over the years. When the waterway fills up with storm runoff, excess water goes through a weir and into a holding pond and from there is pumped into a pipe that carries the water to the south fork of Putah Creek. The waterway is about 1½ miles long, about 2 to 5 feet deep, along the south edge of UC Davis' central campus. A wide portion of the waterway just east of Mrak Hall is called Lake Spafford, named after F. Edwin Spafford, an alumnus who went on to be come a longtime UC Davis administrator, holding such positions as assistant to the provost; executive assistant and special assistant to the chancellor; and vice chancellor for physical construction and maintenance. The waterway runs from near the south end of D Street in downtown Davis to the UC Davis Equestrian Center. The university classifies the remnant north fork channel as a recreation and aesthetic amenity, and a biological resource. The waterway runs through the arboretum, established in 1936 and considered today to be the university's landscape centerpiece. Pedestrian and bicycle paths line the waterway's banks. The waterway also serves as a storm water detention pond. Poor water quality conditions have persisted since the arboretum waterway was first created more than 50 years ago. In large measure, the problems of today stem from the original design. The arboretum waterway is a stagnant pond designed to look like a flowing creek. https://www.ucdavis.edu/news/arboretum-waterway

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Performing arts center of the University of California Davis

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many urban hiking trails are available around Université de Californie à Davis?

There are 7 urban hiking trails documented on komoot for the Université de Californie à Davis area. Most of these, 6 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them accessible for a wide range of hikers.

What are some easy urban hikes near UC Davis?

Many of the trails directly on or adjacent to the UC Davis campus are considered easy. For a pleasant stroll, consider the UC Davis Arboretum Trail, which winds through diverse gardens. Another accessible option is the Lake Spafford loop from UC Davis Health Stadium, offering serene views of the lake.

Are there any family-friendly urban trails in Davis?

Yes, the urban trails around UC Davis are generally very family-friendly due to their easy difficulty and well-maintained paths. The UC Davis Arboretum Trail and the various loops around Lake Spafford are excellent choices for families with children, offering safe and engaging environments for exploration.

What can I see along the urban hiking trails around UC Davis?

The urban trails offer a blend of natural beauty and campus landmarks. Along routes like the UC Davis Arboretum Trail, you'll encounter the diverse plant collections of the Arboretum and the tranquil waters of Lake Spafford. Other points of interest include the Stevenson Bridge and the Putah Creek Trail, which offers a more natural riparian setting.

Are the urban trails around UC Davis dog-friendly?

Many areas around UC Davis are dog-friendly, but rules vary. The UC Davis Arboretum generally allows leashed dogs on its paved paths. For a more natural setting, the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve also permits leashed dogs. Always check specific signage for any restrictions before heading out with your canine companion.

What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Davis?

The best time for urban hiking in Davis is typically during the cooler months, from late fall through spring (October to April). During these periods, temperatures are mild and comfortable for walking. Summers can be very hot, so if hiking then, it's best to go early in the morning or late in the evening.

Are there any circular urban walking trails near UC Davis?

Yes, several urban trails around UC Davis are designed as loops, perfect for a continuous walk. The Lake Spafford – Lake Spafford loop from UC Davis Health Stadium is a great example, offering a scenic circular route. Another option is the Mondavi Center UC Davis loop, which explores parts of the campus.

How long are the walking trails around UC Davis?

The urban walking trails around UC Davis vary in length, catering to different preferences. You can find shorter loops, such as the Mondavi Center UC Davis loop at approximately 4.1 km (2.5 miles), up to longer routes like the UC Davis Arboretum Trail, which is about 7.1 km (4.4 miles) long.

Is public transport available to access urban hiking areas near UC Davis?

Yes, public transport is a convenient way to reach many urban hiking areas. Unitrans, the UC Davis bus system, serves various points on campus and in the city, including stops near the UC Davis Arboretum. For areas like the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve, specific Unitrans routes may also provide access, making it easy to start your hike without a car.

What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking around UC Davis?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility and beauty of the trails, particularly the serene environment of the UC Davis Arboretum and the peaceful riparian settings along Putah Creek. The well-maintained paths and opportunities for wildlife spotting are also frequently highlighted.

Are there urban walks in Davis, CA, with convenient parking?

Yes, many urban walks in Davis offer convenient parking options. For trails within the UC Davis Arboretum, various campus parking lots are available, though permits may be required depending on the time and day. For areas like the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve, designated parking lots are typically provided. It's always advisable to check specific parking regulations for your chosen starting point.

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