Mount Pisgah

Mount Pisgah: A Trail Runner’s Local Favorite

Just 15 minutes from downtown Eugene, Mount Pisgah offers trail runners a dynamic mix of elevation, scenery, and year-round access. Located in the Howard Buford Recreation Area, it boasts over 20 miles of trails weaving through oak savannas, meadows, and pockets of forest.

The Main Summit Trail (Trail 1) is the most well-known—a steep, direct 1.5-mile route gaining over 1,000 feet. It’s a reliable option for hill repeats or a quick fitness challenge. But for those willing to explore, Pisgah has much more to offer.

Trail 3 and Trail 6 provide rolling, runnable terrain with quieter paths and wider loops. Trail 17 and the South Meadow area offer peaceful routes through wildflower meadows and open grassland. These less-traveled trails are perfect for building mileage, discovering new perspectives of the mountain, and avoiding the crowds.

Keep in mind: much of Pisgah is exposed, especially on the upper slopes, with limited shade in summer. Aim for early morning or evening runs to beat the heat.

Parking is available at the Seavey Loop trailhead ($5 day-use fee), with restrooms on site. For local trail runners, Pisgah is more than a summit—it’s a system worth exploring beyond the beaten path.