Address for Directions:
Cross Country course is located east of Recreation Center
501 Three Oaks Drive
Northfield, MN 55057
The Cowling Arboretum (“Arb”) is open to public use year round and consists of approximately 800 acres (360 hectares) of land adjacent to the College and was created under the leadership of President Donald J. Cowling and Professor Harvey E. Stork in the 1920s.
The Arb boasts an extensive 15-mile trail system that has been ranked by
Runner's World magazine as the top place to run in Minnesota and one of the top 10 in the country. The conditions are great for running and relaxing after a day of classes. In the winter, trails are groomed for both classic and skate skiing. The Arboretum is a delightful place to walk any time of the year. The wilderness of the arboretum allows a sense of detachment from campus and can be a great place to relieve stress.
The Arb is divided by Highway 19 into the Upper Arb (south of the highway) and the Lower Arb (north of the highway); "lower" because it contains the low-lying floodplain of the Cannon River. The two portions of the Arb differ in character and in the pattern of visitor use.
Since the Upper Arb is closer to both the campus and most Northfield residents, it receives more traffic and is being developed for heavier recreational use. The Upper Arb contains the
Bill Huyck Championship Cross Country Course and has greater trail density, some trails designated for bike use, and generally smaller areas of natural communities. In contrast, the Lower Arb has populations of rare plants and animals and has primary conservation and education importance. The Lower Arb has fewer trails, no bike use, and large contiguous areas of natural habitat.
(
Men's 8K course map /
Women's 6K course map /
cross country meet parking map)
The Cannon River is a popular fishing spot, and the upland and lowland forests along with the 150 acre prairie restoration provide excellent bird and wildlife watching opportunities.
Cowling Arboretum visitor use rules made be found
HERE.
