1.
Core Arboretum – Caperton Trail loop from Morgantown
13.6km
01:27
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The best running trails around Star City
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 1, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Star City, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and paths, it's tough to figure out which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these routes, and we've distilled that collective wisdom into a curated shortlist, saving you the guesswork.
Jogging in Star City is all about embracing the Monongahela River and the lush arboretum trails. You'll find a great mix of natural environments and accessible paths, predominantly on paved surfaces, offering a range from moderate to difficult challenges. It's a fantastic area to get your legs moving, whether you're looking for a steady riverside run or something a bit more demanding.
If you only do one route, we'd start with the Core Arboretum – Caperton Trail loop from Morgantown. At 8.5 miles (13.7 km), it's a fantastic moderate option that showcases the best of the riverfront. For a slightly shorter, equally rewarding experience, the Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Star City, at 6.6 miles (10.6 km), is perfect for a consistent pace. Ready to explore? Dive into these routes and more, all mapped and reviewed by fellow joggers on komoot.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Arboretum – Caperton Trail loop from Morgantown | 13.6 km | 130 m | Moderate |
| Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Star City | 10.6 km | 60 m | Moderate |
| Caperton Trail – Core Arboretum loop from West Virginia University Evansdale Campus | 7.77 km | 130 m | Hard |
| Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown | 7.98 km | 20 m | Moderate |
| Caperton Trail – Core Arboretum loop from Van Voorhis | 12.5 km | 60 m | Moderate |
| Hazel Ruby McQuain Park – Mon River Trail South loop from Morgantown | 16.3 km | 80 m | Hard |
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2.
Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Star City
10.6km
01:07
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
3.
Caperton Trail – Core Arboretum loop from West Virginia University Evansdale Campus
7.77km
00:53
130m
130m
The Caperton Trail – Core Arboretum loop offers a unique blend of urban and wild, starting with a paved riverside path and transitioning into a natural arboretum. You'll jog alongside the Monongahela River with city views before diving into lush Appalachian forests, where you might spot wildflowers and old-growth trees, with some paths winding past exposed sandstone cliffs. This 4.8-mile (7.8 km) route, with its 422 feet (129 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult and takes about 53 minutes, making it a varied and engaging run.
To tackle this challenging loop, which requires good fitness and sure-footedness, you can easily access it from West Virginia University's Evansdale Campus. Parking is available at spots like Hazel Ruby McQuain Riverfront Park and Edith Barill Riverfront Park. The Caperton Trail portion offers amenities like shops and restaurants, but be prepared for the more rugged, natural terrain within the Core Arboretum.
This route stands out for its ecological and historical significance, combining the modern convenience of the Caperton Trail with the ancient beauty of the 91-acre Core Arboretum. The arboretum is a preserve featuring several hundred species of native West Virginia trees and shrubs, some over 200 years old, offering a peaceful escape into the region's natural heritage right near the city.
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4.
Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown
7.98km
00:49
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
5.
Caperton Trail – Core Arboretum loop from Van Voorhis
12.5km
01:18
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
6.
Hazel Ruby McQuain Park – Mon River Trail South loop from Morgantown
16.3km
01:41
80m
80m
The Hazel Ruby McQuain Park – Mon River Trail South loop from Morgantown offers a fantastic long-distance jogging experience, blending urban convenience with natural river scenery. You'll start on paved paths near the Ruby Amphitheater before transitioning to a smooth, crushed limestone surface that winds alongside the Monongahela River. Expect continuous river views, lush woodlands, and the chance to spot wildflowers and rock outcroppings, especially as you move further from the city center.
This 10.1-mile (16.3 km) route, with a gentle 272 feet (83 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult, primarily due to its length, but its flat grade makes it accessible for many. You can comfortably complete it in about 1 hour and 41 minutes. Parking is available at Hazel Ruby McQuain Park, which serves as an excellent trailhead with amenities like a visitor center and kayak access; spring and autumn are particularly beautiful times to visit.
Part of the extensive Mon River Rail-Trail System, this loop provides a taste of the region's interconnected pathways. It's a popular choice for those seeking dog friendly jogging trails Morgantown, offering a peaceful escape without venturing far from the city. The trail's connection to the Caperton Trail and proximity to the WVU Core Arboretum add to its appeal, providing diverse scenery and options for longer exploration.
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Tips from the Community
mtm05005
February 18, 2024, Hazel Ruby McQuain Park
This riverside park is a great spot to take a break and enjoy views of the river. There are picnic areas, a kayak launch and restroom facilities.
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mtm05005
February 18, 2024, Caperton Trail
The Caperton Trail is a fully paved bike and walking path that runs from Starcity to Morgantown. The path runs through several parks and has many options for restaurants close to the trail.
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Jamie S.
February 18, 2024, Core Arboretum
The Core Arboretum is a historic 91-acre arboretum owned by West Virginia University, on Monongahela Boulevard in Morgantown, West Virginia. It is also accessible via the Caperton Trail, a popular multi-use trail that runs right through it. The arboretum is free and open to the public daily. There are several hundred species of native WV trees, shrubs, and many of the larger trees are likely over 200 years old. In the spring, you can also see beautiful, ephemeral wildflowers.
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oliviakellis
December 5, 2023, Core Arboretum
Runners can embrace wild beauty and history while logging miles through West Virginia University's Core Arboretum. Spanning 91 acres adjacent to the Monongahela River, the open green space has over 3 miles of peaceful forested trails wrapping around old growth trees, some estimated at over 200 years old. Lush native species, wildflowers, and diverse wildlife habitats unlock glimpses of Appalachian nature at its finest. From steep hillsides to floodplain paths, the Arboretum named for ecologist Earl Core makes for terrain as fascinating to run as what may be spotted wandering its habitats.
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mtm05005
July 10, 2023, Hazel Ruby McQuain Park
This riverside park is a great spot to take a break and enjoys views of the river. There are picnic areas, a kayak launch and restroom facilities.
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mtm05005
July 4, 2023, Caperton Trail
The Caperton Trail is a fully paved bike and walking path that runs from Starcity to Morgantown. The path runs through several parks and has many options for restaurants close to the trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Star City?
Komoot features over a dozen running routes in the Star City area. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging runs, primarily along riverfront paths and through arboretum areas.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running routes in Star City?
Yes, Star City offers several routes suitable for beginners. While most are rated moderate, their generally paved surfaces make them accessible. For a relatively flat and scenic option, consider the Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown, which is just under 5 miles and features minimal elevation gain.
What are the best running routes for scenic views in Star City?
Many routes in Star City offer scenic views, particularly those along the Monongahela River. The Core Arboretum – Caperton Trail loop from Morgantown provides beautiful riverfront sections and passes through the Core Arboretum, offering a blend of natural beauty. The Edith Barill Riverfront Park & Trail is also known for its pleasant views.
Are there any loop running trails in Star City?
Yes, many of the popular running routes in Star City are loops, which are great for continuous running without retracing your steps. Examples include the Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Star City and the Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Star City's jogging trails?
The jogging trails around Star City are primarily characterized by mostly paved surfaces. This makes them suitable for various running styles and fitness levels, offering a smooth experience through riverfront paths and arboretum areas.
Are there any running routes that are suitable for families with children?
For families, routes with mostly paved surfaces and relatively flat terrain are ideal. The trails within Hazel Ruby McQuain Park or sections of the Mon River Rail-Trail offer pleasant environments that are generally easy to navigate for all ages, providing space for both running and walking.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Star City?
While specific regulations can vary, many public parks and rail trails in the Star City area, such as the Mon River Rail-Trail and paths within Edith Barill Riverfront Park, are generally dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Are there any challenging running routes for experienced runners?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging run, the Core Arboretum – Caperton Trail loop from West Virginia University School of Dentistry is rated as difficult. This 9.6-mile route features more significant elevation changes compared to other local trails, providing a good workout.
What do other runners say about the trails in Star City?
Runners using komoot often praise the Star City trails for their accessibility and scenic beauty. The combination of riverfront paths and arboretum settings, along with mostly paved surfaces, makes them a favorite for both casual jogs and more dedicated training runs.
Are there any running routes near cafes or places to grab a refreshment?
Many of the running routes in Star City, particularly those originating from or passing through Morgantown, are conveniently located near urban amenities. Trails like the Core Arboretum – Caperton Trail and those around Hazel Ruby McQuain Park are often within easy reach of local cafes and eateries, perfect for a post-run treat.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Star City?
The spring and fall seasons are particularly pleasant for jogging in Star City. Spring brings blooming wildflowers along trails like the Mon River Rail-Trail, while fall offers vibrant foliage. Summer mornings and evenings are also great to avoid the midday heat, and winter can be enjoyable on clear days, especially on the paved, well-maintained paths.
Are there options for public transport access to Star City's running trails?
Given Star City's proximity to Morgantown, public transport options may be available to reach trailheads, especially for routes connected to the Core Arboretum or Hazel Ruby McQuain Park. Checking local bus schedules for routes serving these areas would be advisable for specific access points.
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