Review
Intro
The Harry Pritchett Running Park, better known to locals at the former University Golf Course, is maintained by The University of Alabama as a training and competition course for its cross country team. The park’s trails are most often used for the Crimson Classic cross country meet, held annually in mid-October, though the park has also hosted the Southeastern Conference Cross Country Championships and the NCAA South Regional Championships. The park is open to the public when cross country meets are not in session.Covering 160 acres, the park can accommodate course lengths of between 5 and 10 kilometers and is predominantly flat with a few rolling hills. The trails are mainly dirt and grass with the exception of a few paved areas formerly used as pathways for golf carts.Runners have the option of running on a marked mile-and-a-half long loop, which is a mix of grass and paved paths, or runners can wind throughout the grass fairways, which are usually well-maintained. Runners venturing off the trails should be careful where they step, however, as the park is unofficially used by locals as a dog park where dogs often roam freely.
What Makes It Great
Nestled between The University of Alabama Arboretum and the Tuscaloosa Veterans Affairs Medical Center, also popular running destinations, the Harry Pritchett Running Park provides expansive views of green space in a quiet outdoor haven. Runners are able to run as little or as much as their hearts desire, traversing the rolling hills of former fairways that are dotted with flowering trees, evergreens, sand pits, and ponds.
Who is Going to Love It
Long-distance runners looking for a unique and picturesque course that is a proven destination for cross country runners nationwide. Harry Pritchett is one-of-a-kind and a quiet haven for runners used to running on roads and sidewalks, and it’s just a short drive for most Tuscaloosa-area residents. Locals also use the course as a dog park, so feel free to bring your furry friend along for a run.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
Parking is located at the intersection of Veterans Memorial Parkway and Loop Road just before the entrance to The University of Alabama Arboretum. To access the park from McFarland Boulevard, head east on Veterans Memorial Parkway, staying in the right lane, then follow signs for the Arboretum. Once you enter the main gate, the parking lot and trails will be on your right.
