Running News Daily

Running Through Stanford: Bob Anderson’s Favorite Routes Across One of the Most Scenic Campuses in the World

For over a decade, Bob Anderson — founder of Runner’s World and My Best Runs — has made the beautiful campus of Stanford University part of his regular training routine. Logging more than 40-60 runs per year, Bob doesn’t just show up for a loop or two. His connection to the campus is personal, purposeful, and deeply rooted in over ten years of consistent miles.

The Campus: Where Beauty Meets Variety

Stanford’s campus is one of the largest in the world, covering more than 8,000 acres in the heart of Silicon Valley. For runners, it’s a dream.

The terrain is varied and forgiving, with a blend of smooth bike paths, tree-lined sidewalks, dirt trails, and open stretches that feel more like parkland than a college campus. Runners pass by iconic sandstone buildings, the Rodin Sculpture Garden, and expansive green spaces that invite both focus and reflection. The Hoover Tower stands tall in the background, offering a visual anchor point during longer runs.

Whether you’re doing intervals on the flats or cruising through rolling paths near the Arboretum, Stanford has the kind of range that keeps every workout interesting.

Bob’s Go-To Route: From Los Altos to Coupa Café

Bob typically begins his run from his home in Los Altos, covering 7.2 miles to Coupa Café on campus. Most days, he runs the first 6.2 miles, then walks the final mile as an active cooldown, enjoying the transition onto Stanford’s peaceful grounds.

His destination is Coupa Café, a cozy outdoor spot nestled in the heart of Stanford. The stop is part of the ritual: a cup of coffee, a bag of chips, and a bottle of water — simple mid-run fuel that’s become tradition.

He’s often joined by his friend JR, especially on Sundays, turning the outing into a social run and a weekly catch-up. On Saturdays, his small dog Daisy — a fast, energetic runner — tags along. Daisy has even clocked sub-8-minute miles over 10K distance, holding her own on the longer efforts.

The 10-Mile Loop: A Long Run Favorite

Another favorite in Bob’s training rotation is a 10-mile run that also starts in Los Altos. He reaches Stanford around mile 6.5, then finishes the last 3.5 miles weaving through the most scenic parts of campus. (Sixth photo after the 10 with JR)

He wraps up the 10-miler at — where else? — Coupa Café, before taking in a post-run walk of about a mile to his pickup spot, where his wife meets him. It’s a perfectly designed effort that blends physical training with relaxation and reflection.

Why Stanford Works for Runners

• Safe and runner-friendly: Wide bike paths, sidewalks, and pedestrian zones.

• Scenic and ever-changing: Between the architecture, gardens, and trails, there’s always something new to notice.

• Flat and fast: Ideal for tempo runs, recovery jogs, or long efforts.

• Quiet corners: Great for solo runs or mindful movement.

• Accessible: Easily reached from surrounding cities, especially by foot from Palo Alto or Los Altos.

Some Final Thoughts

Stanford University isn’t just a world-class institution — it’s also one of the best places to run in the Bay Area. For Bob Anderson, it has become a cornerstone of his running life.

Whether it’s a seven-mile effort with coffee in the middle or a strong ten-mile long run with a relaxing walk to follow, Stanford delivers miles with meaning — shared with friends, family, and even a four-legged training partner named Daisy.

“There’s something about that campus that keeps calling me back,” Bob says. And after just one run through Stanford, it’s easy to understand why.

Bob has also run many races on the Stanford campus and many people have joined him at Coupa cafe.  "If you have not explored the campus you should put it on your to do list," says Bob.

There are many races that run through the Stanford campus as well.  The last photo is one Bob ran.

Bob Anderson NoteBook 

(03/26/2025) Views: 170 ⚡AMP
by Boris Baron