Find the Right Trail Running
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Some trails are too soft. Some trail running is too hard. But some trails are just right for running. Now you have to find the right trail run just for you, Goldilocks. Finding the perfect trail can be a process. Some people run thousands of miles to find the perfect trail run. Some people never find it. Some runners live 10 minutes from their perfect trail run. Here are some tips to find what we are all looking for in our trail running: the perfect trail to spend the rest of your life with. *tear
The first place you want to go to research a great trail to run is the trail running section of SeriousRunning.com. We have almost 900 trail runs listed all over the nation. How did we get such a large database of trail runs? From our users. Your fellow trail runners are the ones that submit the information about cool trails to run anywhere in the country. In fact, we even have a $25 gift certificate contest going on right now for submitting trail runs. Here is how it works. The point is, use our database with directions, reviews, and pictures to research the best trail running trail near you; its pretty much the most efficient process ever.
But before you get excited about National Trail Running Day and decide to run your heart out on an expert trail, think about what you are looking for in a trail. First look to see who else uses the trail. Mountain bikers, hikers, cross-country skiers, Canicrossers? The reason is because you want to be alert if there are mountain bikers racing around corners or be more careful not to run over hikers that may be on the trail. Don’t worry, trails are not like surf spots, anyone can run them and you won’t be chased off by the locals, braw. Plan your route before starting. Think about if you want to do an out and back to make sure you get the right amount of miles in and have the option of turning around early if you are tired. Or possibly you can do a loop course, not giving yourself the turn around option, thus making the run a little more extreme. Also think about the scenery you are looking for. Do you want to check out some cool views, looking for wildlife, or want to be completely surrounded by trees? I’m always looking for a cool scene, but it usually just ends up being wherever I am anyway. Lastly, check out the elevation, mileage, rest areas, and exposure to the sun for your trail running. You need to be careful on the trail not to overexert yourself. Help may not be readily available like it is when road running. Better yet, bring a friend with you, nobody likes to celebrate National Trail Running Day alone.
Keep trying as many trails as possible until you find the right trail for you. Trust me, when you find that perfect trail run it will appreciate all of the experience you will have from the other trail you have runs.
This is so helpful, and such a nice reminder that trail running doesn’t have to be scary and overly technical (though it can if you want it to be)! I’ve found a great network of trails close to my house, and depending on the mood I’m in or the workout I want, I can tackle big, scary hills with rocks and stumps, or a nice, calming flat stretch with only a few minor stream crossings.
That’s great. Yeah, I think too many people associate trail running with ultra running or being “extreme” when really anyone can do it and enjoy it. All it takes is a trail and one step in front of the other. Do it any distance at any speed. You’re lucky Amy to have a network of trails close to your house. Good for you!