Welcome to the Self-Guided URBAN Trail!

Purpose: Boost your mind, body and spirit (Cura Personalis)

What is the URBAN Trail?

The URBAN Trail is a 45-minute mindful walk around the University of San Francisco (USF), created by USF faculty and students. Inspired by alumnus Hal Urban’s book, the trail showcases USF’s mission through art, architecture, and gardens, while introducing notable alumni, faculty, staff, and students. The trail features 7 themes: Cura Personalis, “U”, Reframe, Balance, Appreciate, Nourish and Pass it On. It helps reduce stress, boost mindfulness, and is a great individual, group or family-friendly activity. Choose between a self-guided tour (available anytime!) or a group-guided experience (offered throughout the semester).

Why should I walk the trail?

Research shows that walking the guided URBAN Trail helps increase mindfulness and reduce stress and anxiety in University students (Burdick et al., 2024). For more information on what mindfulness is, please see resources at the bottom of our page.

Get started on the Self Guided Tour!

Head to the Wolf & Kettle Sculpture in front of Gleeson Library and/or click on this map! This mindful walk takes ~45 minutes depending on how fast you walk and how much time you would like to spend at each stop.

How to access audio content via QR codes:

Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code—it will open our self-guided URBAN Trail website. Hold your phone in landscape (see image) to view the menu on the right (map, info). Check your volume or use headphones to hear the audio clearly.

Tips for Your URBAN Trail Walk

If it’s your first time, we recommend following the trail in order—stop at each sign, read the content, and listen to the audio before moving on. Returning for another walk? Feel free to go at your own pace, revisit favorite spots, or skip around!
You can walk solo or with others—just try to keep conversations focused on the trail to get the most out of the experience.
Be sure to bring your phone to access the audio and map. For the best results, try to use your phone only for the trail—this helps boost mindfulness and supports your mental and physical well-being!