Anything Goes

If there’s a phrase that captures the essence of spring trail running, it’s “anything goes.” Spring trail conditions, like spring weather, can be unpredictable. The key is to be prepared for whatever nature has in store for you. Here’s a few tips to stay one step ahead.

Do Your Research

Check with local park services or trail associations before heading out. Many post trail conditions on their web sites or social media pages. If you don’t know who is responsible for a particular trail or park, do a quick Internet search by park or trail name or something generic like “trail conditions.”  You can also consult with area running or hiking groups, running shoe stores or trail race organizers.

In addition, check the local weather forecast. For example, if precipitation is predicted you might want to avoid trails that require water crossings. Spring rains coupled with melting snow often result in raging torrents ─ not to mention that running through cold water this time of year isn’t exactly pleasant.

Heed Advice

Spring thaws have muddied many trails, making them prone to erosion if trampled on. Trail associations and trail riding or running groups often post requests for people to stay off certain trails until they’ve dried out. Be a good steward of nature and the trails, and abide by those requests.Avoid sensitive trails now so they’ll be in good shape later when conditions are better.

Pick Your Trails Wisely

The best trails to run on  are those that have a southern exposure, which gives the sun’s rays a better chance to dry them out. Those with well-drained soils are good choices, as are paths that have rock or gravel surfaces. Trails through hardwood forests are better choices than those meandering through coniferous forests. Until leaf-out occurs, hardwood forests let in more sunlight so the trails in them tend to dry sooner.

Run Responsibly

If you do find yourself on a mud-drenched path, embrace your inner child and go through it. Avoid running around mud puddles, rocks or downed tree limbs, running off trail or short-cutting switchbacks. Otherwise, you risk widening trails, damaging vegetation and wildlife habitats and causing unnecessary erosion.

Look Out for Obstacles

Rocks, roots and downed branches are part of the trail running experience. You are likely to encounter even more this spring given the past winter’s heavy snowfalls. The organizations responsible for maintaining trails (and the volunteers who pitch in when no one is tasked with the duty) do their best to keep them clear. However, budget cuts and a lack of resources often limit what they can do. So be alert. If something is blocking your route, back track or use caution when stepping over it. Again,  don’t circumvent obstacles if at all possible.

Feel free to pay it forward and clear the way for fellow trail users if you can easily move an obstacle. Chances are they’ll do the same for others.

Feet First

In terms of footwear, just go with what works best for you, whether it’s a minimalist-style trail shoe or a regular road shoe. However, ankle gaiters are a godsend, keeping water, mud, twigs, pine needles or any lingering snow out of your shoes. Take them off and tuck them away when they aren’t needed. For more tips on what to wear, check out these spring running hacks.

Be Prepared

Anticipate that you may need help, need to be found or need to hunker down. Tuck an extra energy bar or other food into your pack or hydration belt. Make sure you carry plenty of fluids. A fully charged cell phone is essential. I also like to keep pepper spray, a couple of antiseptic wipes and some Neosporin in my hydration belt. You never know who or what you might encounter on the trails and, in my case, how many times you might need to ward off an angry goose or clean up a bloodied knee.

If you’re unfamiliar with a trail, map your run out. Break it into sections and figure approximate distances for each. While not 100% accurate, a GPS watch can tell you how far you’ve gone and how far you still need to go.

Most important, make sure to let someone know where you are running and how long you plan on being gone.

Rules to Run By

While the phrase “anything goes” applies to spring trail conditions and weather, it doesn’t apply to behavior on the trails. Follow these “recommended rules of the trails” in the spring and all year long to make the trails safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

• Run on the right and pass on the left, even if you are on a single track route.
• Step to the side and let faster runners pass. You should also yield to cyclists. It is easier for you to move out of the way then it is for them.
• Alert people when you are passing them. Don’t assume they hear you coming. A simple “on your left” works.
• Avoid wearing headphones. It will help you be aware of your surroundings and let you enjoy the zen-like quality of nature.
• Stop and look both ways where a trail crosses a roadway. Don’t assume vehicles on the road will stop for the trail crossing.
• Respect private property along the trail.
• Never discard gel wrappers, water bottles or other trash along the trails. If there isn’t a receptacle around, stash trash in your hydration belt, pack or pocket. Carry it with you until you’re able to dispose of it properly.
• If you encounter wildlife along the trail, let the animals pass or reroute your course if possible. If you don’t bother them, chances are they won’t bother you.

Most important, be ready to enjoy the experience!

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