There is no question that the natural landscape of Colgate University’s surrounding forests and community trails outshine the majority of American college campuses. However, not all students utilize one of the most convenient and beautiful trails in the broader Madison County area: Colgate’s Harry Lang Cross Country and Fitness Trails.
The Harry Lang Cross Country and Fitness Trails are composed mainly of 5k and 8k running trails. However, in total, they feature 10 official trails that are designated for running, skiing or mindfulness. Dedicated by alumni, parents and numerous leadership donors in June of 1996, the trails offer a unique opportunity for students and Hamilton community members to enjoy the beauty of Colgate’s surrounding forests.
After arriving on campus, many students are excited to explore their new surroundings, but oftentimes they miss one of the most useful and accessible areas of campus. Harry Lang provides an easy access hiking area where students can escape the hectic nature of campus life for an hour or two and be able to run, walk or even sit for a while and admire the beautiful landscape of upstate New York.
Students taking a stroll past Chapel House through the winding Alumni Road will discover the trailhead near the Colgate Cemetery. Sophomore Marina Garcia is one of the many students who utilize the trail.
“The trails are honestly just a great place to clear my mind and have a moment in nature,” Garcia said. “I love to see the leaves change in the fall and pretty much watch the seasons change as the year goes on. I would say I use them pretty frequently, either for runs or walks throughout my week.”
Many students enjoy the fall season when the leaves turn orange and red, and the cross-country trails are a perfect way to enjoy seasonal change in your day-to-day life without having to leave campus.
These trails are impeccably maintained year-round. While in the warmer months they are used as training and competitive courses for Colgate’s cross country team, the winter months offer a chance to snowmobile or cross-country ski. The constant demand for use of these trails leaves them clean, routinely cleared of debris and safe to be used and enjoyed by anyone who pleases.
Junior Caroline Rewey uses the trails as an escape.
“The trails are such a nice outlet on campus, especially because they are so accessible,” Rewey said. “I think they are also just gorgeous in general and I use them every once in a while. Now that I’m not living up the hill, I go a bit less frequently, but if you live on the hill, they are incredibly convenient. I even suggested that my parents take a hike on them when they were visiting about a week ago.”
It is truly valuable to be able to find an escape just a short walk away for most students on campus and the appeal of this proximity cannot be beat.
Sophomore Tejas Prakash frequents the trails during exams.
“I remember during finals last year I needed to just take an hour from all my work and get out of the library,” Prakash said. “I walked up to the trails and sat for a bit, and it was so nice to be away from all my academic demands. I want to go again this semester.”
For a study break or a chance to sit in silence, there is no shortage of benefits that the trails offer. There are even areas with benches and open grassy stretches that are perfect for taking a moment to sit and relax.
These trails have been a source of comfort for many who find joy in exercising or simply being outdoors. A map of the Harry Lang Cross Country and Fitness Trails that details trail heads and access points throughout campus can be found on the University website.
