Pre's Trail

Pre's Trail is located within Alton Baker Park in Eugene, Oregon. You can find multiple parking areas throughout the park, offering convenient access to various points along the trail. Specific parking lots are available near the main entrances to the park.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Pre's Trail or Alton Baker Park. It is free and open to the public.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Dogs are generally welcome, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park users and local wildlife.

Pre's Trail is enjoyable year-round. Its soft surface makes it pleasant in most conditions. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer is great for longer days. Even in winter, the flat terrain and well-maintained surface make it accessible, though some sections might be muddy after heavy rain.

The trail is predominantly flat with minimal elevation gain, often described as 'pancake-flat.' Its most distinctive feature is its soft, unpaved surface, primarily composed of wood chips and bark dust. Some sections may include dirt, gravel, or a short stretch of asphalt. It's wide and well-maintained, designed as a doubletrack.

As you traverse the route, you'll experience varied scenery, including wooded areas, open grasslands, and riparian zones alongside the Willamette River and a canoe canal. Scenic views include the Willamette River, duck ponds, and a glimpse of Autzen Stadium. Notable landmarks include the Bridge at Canoe Canal and the "Hal-Ba" Talking Stone. You'll also pass by Autzen Stadium and Alton Baker Park.

Absolutely! This trail is generally considered easy, making it ideal for beginners, casual strollers, and families with children. Its flat grade and soft surface provide a comfortable and less strenuous walking experience.

The trail is named in honor of Steve Prefontaine, the legendary University of Oregon runner. Prefontaine was instrumental in its creation, advocating for a soft-surfaced running system in Alton Baker Park, inspired by similar trails he encountered in Europe.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the North Bank Path, East & North Bank Path, West & South Bank Path, and the TransAmerica Trail (Oregon). It is also part of an extensive network of trails within Alton Baker Park and connects to the wider Willamette River Trail system.

The diverse habitats along the trail, including wooded areas, grasslands, and riparian zones, support various wildlife. You might spot ducks, frogs, and occasionally larger animals like foxes, eagles, herons, and ospreys, especially near the Willamette River and duck ponds.

Alton Baker Park is a public park in Eugene, Oregon, and generally has no entrance fees. Standard park regulations apply, such as keeping dogs on leash, packing out trash, and respecting wildlife. Specific rules for events or facilities within the park might vary, but for general trail use, it's open and free.