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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

Easy hikes and walks around Université de Californie à Davis

4.8

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184

hikers

21

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Easy hiking trails around Université de Californie à Davis are primarily found within the flat Central Valley, offering accessible routes through riparian zones and cultivated landscapes. The region is characterized by its network of greenbelts, the campus arboretum, and natural creek environments like Putah Creek. While significant elevation changes are uncommon in the immediate vicinity, these trails provide opportunities for gentle walks and nature observation.

Best easy hiking trails around Université de Californie à Davis

  • The most popular easy hiking route is UC Davis Arboretum Trail, a 4.4 miles (7.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 48 minutes to complete. This route winds through the university's extensive arboretum, offering diverse plant collections and waterside paths.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Davis-Covell Greenbelt Trail, an easy 3.5 miles (5.6 km) path. This trail follows a maintained greenbelt, providing a pleasant urban walking experience with minimal elevation gain.
  • Local hikers also love the Lake Spafford – Lake Spafford loop from Davis, a 3.1 miles (5.1 km) trail leading through the scenic Lake Spafford area, often completed in about 1 hour 17 minutes.
  • Hiking around Université de Californie à Davis is defined by greenbelts, riparian zones, and campus gardens. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on accessible and flat terrain.
  • The routes in Université de Californie à Davis are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 8 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Université de Californie à Davis's varied terrain.

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 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a "living museum" of diverse plant collections and natural landscapes. You'll wander past the tranquil Lake Spafford and through the cool, shady T. Elliot Weier Redwood Grove, experiencing a surprising variety of scenery for such a gentle path.

Planning your visit couldn't be simpler; the arboretum is free and open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The trail is largely paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and dogs are welcome on leash. With an estimated duration of just 1 hour and 48 minutes, it's an ideal choice for a quick, refreshing outing at any time of day.

Beyond its beauty, the arboretum functions as an important educational and research hub for UC Davis, showcasing sustainable horticulture and world-class plant collections. The trail system also connects to the broader Putah Creek Riparian Reserve, offering a glimpse into a managed natural ecosystem. Its accessibility and connection to downtown Davis make it a vital green space for the community, providing a peaceful retreat and a convenient link to local amenities.

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5.0

(1)

2

hikers

The Davis-Covell Greenbelt Trail provides a delightful escape into nature right within Davis, California. This easy 3.5-mile (5.6 km) loop, with a gentle 25 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a mix of paved paths and green spaces. You'll pass by the serene Julie Partansky Pond, a haven for over 50 wildlife species, and discover charming bronze sculptures that add a playful touch to the landscape. Expect a pleasant 1 hour and 24 minutes of walking, perfect for a leisurely outing.

Planning your visit to the Davis-Covell Greenbelt Trail is straightforward, as it's easily accessible from surrounding neighborhoods. While there isn't a single designated parking lot, street parking is generally available near various access points. The trail is suitable year-round, but for the most comfortable experience, consider hiking during the cooler parts of the day, as some sections are exposed to the sun. Bathrooms are available in certain park areas along the route.

What truly sets the Davis-Covell Greenbelt Trail apart is its blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, making it a popular route for families and dog owners. Beyond the wildlife at Julie Partansky Pond, the trail's unique bronze sculptures, including a dog chasing a turkey, offer unexpected artistic diversions. It's a fantastic option for those seeking easy hiking trails with interesting landmarks and a chance to observe local wildlife without venturing far from the city.

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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

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
June 30, 2025, North Davis Farm Lake

A small farm lake along the trail that can be a nice place to stop and watch the bird life.

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Sue
August 8, 2024, Putah Creek Trail

The Putah Creek Trail is a lovely, flat loop along the north side of Putah Creek, where you can immerse yourself in nature surrounded by Valley Oaks, wild California Grape, California Wild Rose, and Fremont Cottonwood trees. The public access area is only on the north side of the creek between Pedrick Road and Old Davis Road; the rest is private property or not open to the public, so be mindful of the boundaries. In the winter, the path might get a bit flooded; however, you can still enjoy a stroll by walking along the levee to Old Davis Road.

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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 easy hiking trails are available near UC Davis?

There are over 15 easy hiking trails around Université de Californie à Davis, offering accessible routes through riparian zones and cultivated landscapes. These trails are primarily found within the flat Central Valley, providing gentle walks and opportunities for nature observation.

What makes hiking around UC Davis unique for easy trails?

The region's unique appeal for easy hiking lies in its diverse environments, despite being in the flat Central Valley. You'll find a network of greenbelts, the extensive UC Davis Arboretum, and natural creek environments like the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve. These areas offer a blend of cultivated gardens and natural habitats, perfect for relaxed exploration.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails near UC Davis?

The easy hiking routes around Université de Californie à Davis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful atmosphere, and the accessibility of these trails for a quick escape into nature.

Are there family-friendly easy hiking trails near UC Davis?

Yes, many of the easy trails are ideal for families. The UC Davis Arboretum Trail is a popular choice, offering diverse plant collections and waterside paths that are generally flat and easy for all ages. The various greenbelt trails, such as the Covell Greenbelt Trail, also provide pleasant, safe environments for family walks.

Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails near UC Davis?

Dog policies vary by location. The UC Davis Arboretum generally welcomes leashed dogs on its trails. For other areas like the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve or Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, it's best to check specific regulations regarding dogs, as some sensitive wildlife areas may have restrictions or require leashes at all times.

Are there stroller-friendly or accessible trails near UC Davis?

Absolutely. The UC Davis Arboretum Trail is largely paved or well-maintained, making it very stroller and wheelchair-friendly. Many of the greenbelt trails, such as the Davis-Covell Greenbelt Trail, also offer flat, accessible surfaces suitable for strollers and those with mobility aids.

What natural features or landmarks can I see on easy hikes near UC Davis?

On easy hikes, you can explore various points of interest. The UC Davis Arboretum Trail features themed gardens and the scenic Lake Spafford. You might also encounter the Stevenson Bridge or the Putah Creek Trail, known for its abundant wildlife. For cultural landmarks, the US Bicycling Hall of Fame - Davis is also nearby.

Are there easy hiking trails near UC Davis accessible by public transport?

Many easy trails are highly accessible by public transport, especially those within Davis itself. The UC Davis Arboretum Trail is directly on campus and easily reachable by local bus routes. Greenbelt trails are also integrated into the city's infrastructure, often just a short walk from bus stops.

Where can I find parking for easy hikes near UC Davis?

Parking is generally available for most easy hikes. For trails within the UC Davis campus, such as the Arboretum, university parking lots are available (fees may apply). For greenbelt trails, street parking is often an option in residential areas adjacent to the greenbelts. Always check local signage for parking restrictions.

What is the best time of year for easy hiking near Davis, California?

The best time for easy hiking near Davis is typically during the spring and fall. These seasons offer mild temperatures, comfortable for walking, and the landscapes are often vibrant with blooming plants or autumn colors. Summers can be very hot in the Central Valley, making early mornings or late evenings preferable if hiking during that time. Winters are generally mild but can be wet.

Are there any easy loop hikes near UC Davis?

Yes, several easy loop hikes are available. The Lake Spafford – Lake Spafford loop from UC Davis Health Stadium is a great example, offering a pleasant circuit around the lake. Many of the greenbelt trails also form natural loops or can be combined to create circular routes through urban green spaces.

Can I find cafes or places to eat near the easy hiking trails?

Given the proximity of many trails to the city of Davis and the UC Davis campus, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries nearby. The downtown Davis area, easily accessible from many greenbelt trails and the Arboretum, offers a wide selection of dining options for a post-hike meal or coffee.

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