I needed to break in the new shoes on Friday. Therefore, I decided to head to South Mountain (Lehigh) for a run. I was hoping I could do a couple loops.
I ate a cheesesteak and felt terrible and tired all afternoon. Therefore, I didn't run until the evening. It was super humid again. I hoped that the evening would make it a little better, but it didn't. I ran shirtless and was drenched by the end. This rivaled the worst days of the summer.
I was going to do Dave Decker's loop, but decided that I would run a little more too. Therefore, instead of crossing the road early on, I headed downhill more. This area has a lot of banked turns and some obstacles. I guess it's a big mountain bike section. It goes down and down and down.
Some of the mountain biking type of stuff was kind of annoying. More than anything though, the humidity was a problem. I guess I was almost to the bottom of the mountain. I could hear Route 78 traffic right next to the trail. Then, when the trail began ascending slightly, I turned around.
I had a big climb ahead of me. It was tough, but I went slow. It did kind of switchback. I actually passed two young guys carrying their bikes up the hill. They must've thought I was crazy for running it. I was slow, but I did make it up.
It wasn't too long and I was back to the normal route. Some nice climbing was done, but more was ahead. I had a brief easier section before that though. I struggled a little bit then when going to the very top, but I made it.
Next was some more recovery, then more uphill. The key was that I kept running. I enjoyed the downhill after that. I missed a turn at the disc golf course, but quickly found the right way.
The rocky descending section wasn't too bad. I think the new shoes did help. They seemed kind of loose at times, as my feet felt like they were slipping.
I was next on to the road and then to the lookout. Some people were there and probably wondering where I was going, as I headed up the trail. I quickly got across the road.
It was more ascending now. I was taking it easy and it made this section kind of easy. I never considered walking and was surprised at how quickly I got near the top. I was super soaked, but surviving.
Then, I ran on the road. Climbing the stairs in the open was annoying, but I was nearly done with the loop. I ran through the parking lot to my car. I was over 5 miles at that point and exhausted from the heat. If the weather was better, I would've done another loop. However, I called it a day.
I would've liked more mileage, but I wasn't too disappointed. I climbed almost 1,000 feet, so that was good. I broke in the shoes a bit too.
I was invited to run with Janine and her husband at the Delaware Water Gap on Saturday. However, I was too worried about the humidity, combined with a challenging course. I had to go elsewhere and was thinking of heading to Blue Marsh.
5.20 miles - 54:08 (10:25 pace)
Saturday, September 6, 2014
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Wissahickon Valley Park and Jacobsburg
Today was an excellent day. I got my weekly mileage back on track with a pair of fun trail runs. Most importantly, I had company for these runs. I'm so used to running trails alone, so that was a lot of fun.
I didn't have to work today, so I was able to leave late in the morning and run trails with Angie. Earlier in the week, I was thinking about running Wissahickon Valley Park, near Philly. I haven't run there in about a year and a half, so we headed there.
We arrived around 11 AM. It was already quite warm, so I ran shirtless. I'm glad I did, as we were both soaked by the end of the run. It wasn't the hottest day this summer, but it sure wasn't great weather either.
Normally, I start by the Valley Green Inn. This time, I decided that we'd run the loop clockwise and start across from the entrance road. There's a nice wide stone path in the middle of it and then higher trails on the ridges all around.
We had a nice start on the easy path. Then, it was time to climb. We took it easy. Angie was pretty beat up still from a half marathon earlier in the week. I was in no rush, but I didn't want to walk at all.
There is a lot of fast ridge running on this side. I felt bad though, because I told her that once we climbed, that's mostly what we'd be doing. Instead, it seemed like we went back down and then up several more times too.
I felt good and ran easy. Angie was doing fine, except she took it easy on the hills and walked some of them. I kept running and slowed down on the flats, so that she would catch up. This section was fun, running above the valley, but it was quite basic.
Near mile 2, we had a long downhill. A young lady was walking up there and then began running. I was having fun with the descent.
We then had to run along the shoulder of the road briefly. We were on the other side after this point. Now, was the part of the run that I was looking forward to. The other side of the trail is amazing. It's so out of place and doesn't feel urban at all. It started off pretty easy, but then we climbed a bit.
There were options to go uphill, but with Angie having some trouble, I decided on the lower trails. Those were nice because in the beginning, they were along the creek. The scenery was great and on this side, the hill kind of blocked out the sun.
While the other side is fast and kind of smooth, by trail standards, this part is very technical. At one point, our pace had been a 10:38, but it got slower and slower. Still, this part was so much fun.
I don't even know how to describe it. There are giant flat boulders everywhere. Sometimes, they are next to the trail. Other times, they are on the trail and you almost have to rock scramble over them. Luckily, I didn't manage to fall. Angie took 2 spills I think.
Although these miles went slow, they were a blast. There was some climbing involved too. There were plenty of roots as well as rocks. We went down this cool set of steps, with an archway over it. There are a lot of neat man made stone features like that on the trail. I just love it.
Miles 4 and 5 seemed like they took forever. We ran past the Devil's Pool area (a swimming hole). That was kind of unpleasant with a lot of trash. One of the best parts about this run is that so few people use the trails. We had them all to ourselves for the most part. We did come across a few people, mostly dog walkers.
At one point, we ran through two boulders that were probably about 8 feet high on each side of us. That was neat. After some time, I decided that we should climb for a change, since we had recovered a bit. This was good for me, even though Angie didn't enjoy it.
Then, we came to what was almost a dead end. Luckily, I saw the trail go down below. I had been telling Angie about the Fingerspan Bridge and I was hoping we'd find it. First, we went up some stairs. They were pretty steep and I flew up them. Angie walked up them and was surprised that I ran up them with such ease.
At the top was the Fingerspan Bridge. It's this pedestrian bridge that is high in the air. It's really neat, but Angie was a little uncomfortable walking over it. The bottom is open grate and so is the top. I love this part.
We continued along this fun section. There were a lot of cliffs and some more stairs. Angie wanted to stop at one pedestrian bridge and look at the water. Then, we climbed some more technical sections.
A large road bridge goes overhead. Finally, we came out to where the main path goes over the creek. We ran on that. It was much easier running. We were at around mile 7 at that point.
Both of us were nearly out of water. We got to a split and I told her we could either run up and ridge run on the trail again, or head back on the wide stone path that is Forbidden Drive. Since she was struggling, so I decided that we had had enough climbing. We took Forbidden Drive.
Of course, I forgot how hilly this can be. It's not too challenging, but there is quite a bit of gradual uphill. It is pretty too, with a wide stone road. I cruised along. Angie began walking up one hill, so I kept going.
I decided I'd run to the water fountain at Valley Green. Then, I'd bring water back in case she needed some. We were farther out then I thought. It was 9.4 miles when I got to the water. I filled up and headed back out.
Shortly after that, I saw Angie following another woman who was running. I thought maybe they were talking, but Angie was just pacing off of her. I ran with Angie back to the water fountain. She stopped and I ran out to mile 10. I got in just the miles that I had hoped for.
Other than the heat, I think Angie really enjoyed the run. I know I did. I love this unique place. It's kind of a hidden gem. At least the trails are. Maybe I'll try to set up a group run there when the leaves are changing. I bet that that would be amazing.
After we were done, Angie informed me that Gary was trying to get people together for a 4:45 PM run at Jacobsburg. I didn't have much recovery time, but I figured why not do it. I wanted a second trail run anyway. I was hoping to run in my new shoes, but they had not arrived yet.
Gary and I were the only ones running. He didn't feel that great to start, so we both took it easy. Rather than the normal route, he wanted to run the field section. I wasn't crazy about that with the sun blazing, but we did it.
We had a good chat going on and we were cruising along. We got to the long climb up to the field and that was kind of tough. I took it slow, but ran and Gary walked some. I headed back down briefly too and then climbed a short bit when I got back to Gary.
There was more gradual climbing in the field part. Then, we had a nice downhill. We were around 3 miles into the run when we reached the bottom.
We took the road across to the Sober's Run area, since he wasn't feeling terrible. My feet were sore from the earlier run and getting worse because I had my road shoes on. Since this trail is very non technical, that wasn't the worst thing though.
We then crossed the small bridge over Sober's Run and ran along that. This part was nice and easy. I didn't mind it.
Gary walked up the short hill at the end of this part. At the top, I saw he was struggling and nearly cramping, so I just took off. I ran the mile or more back to the car on my own.
I was doing good until the road segment. Then, my legs started to tire. It was a lot of trail running to do. I ran back to the car and then over to the bathrooms to throw some gum away. Finally, I finished up in the parking lot with a solid day.
It was a great day on trails and I need to do this more often. I really need more trail running partners. It makes the running even more enjoyable than it already is. Now, if only we could get some nice weather too.
Tomorrow, I'd like to get in 10 miles again. That may be one run or two runs. I'm definitely doing something on trail. I need to try out the new trail shoes and see how they work out. I may need to do one more long run in the old shoes though.
Wissahickon Run - 10 miles - 1:54:20 (11:26 pace)
Jacobsburg Run - 5.5 miles - 52:41 (9:30 pace)
I didn't have to work today, so I was able to leave late in the morning and run trails with Angie. Earlier in the week, I was thinking about running Wissahickon Valley Park, near Philly. I haven't run there in about a year and a half, so we headed there.
We arrived around 11 AM. It was already quite warm, so I ran shirtless. I'm glad I did, as we were both soaked by the end of the run. It wasn't the hottest day this summer, but it sure wasn't great weather either.
Normally, I start by the Valley Green Inn. This time, I decided that we'd run the loop clockwise and start across from the entrance road. There's a nice wide stone path in the middle of it and then higher trails on the ridges all around.
We had a nice start on the easy path. Then, it was time to climb. We took it easy. Angie was pretty beat up still from a half marathon earlier in the week. I was in no rush, but I didn't want to walk at all.
There is a lot of fast ridge running on this side. I felt bad though, because I told her that once we climbed, that's mostly what we'd be doing. Instead, it seemed like we went back down and then up several more times too.
I felt good and ran easy. Angie was doing fine, except she took it easy on the hills and walked some of them. I kept running and slowed down on the flats, so that she would catch up. This section was fun, running above the valley, but it was quite basic.
Near mile 2, we had a long downhill. A young lady was walking up there and then began running. I was having fun with the descent.
We then had to run along the shoulder of the road briefly. We were on the other side after this point. Now, was the part of the run that I was looking forward to. The other side of the trail is amazing. It's so out of place and doesn't feel urban at all. It started off pretty easy, but then we climbed a bit.
There were options to go uphill, but with Angie having some trouble, I decided on the lower trails. Those were nice because in the beginning, they were along the creek. The scenery was great and on this side, the hill kind of blocked out the sun.
While the other side is fast and kind of smooth, by trail standards, this part is very technical. At one point, our pace had been a 10:38, but it got slower and slower. Still, this part was so much fun.
I don't even know how to describe it. There are giant flat boulders everywhere. Sometimes, they are next to the trail. Other times, they are on the trail and you almost have to rock scramble over them. Luckily, I didn't manage to fall. Angie took 2 spills I think.
Although these miles went slow, they were a blast. There was some climbing involved too. There were plenty of roots as well as rocks. We went down this cool set of steps, with an archway over it. There are a lot of neat man made stone features like that on the trail. I just love it.
Miles 4 and 5 seemed like they took forever. We ran past the Devil's Pool area (a swimming hole). That was kind of unpleasant with a lot of trash. One of the best parts about this run is that so few people use the trails. We had them all to ourselves for the most part. We did come across a few people, mostly dog walkers.
At one point, we ran through two boulders that were probably about 8 feet high on each side of us. That was neat. After some time, I decided that we should climb for a change, since we had recovered a bit. This was good for me, even though Angie didn't enjoy it.
Then, we came to what was almost a dead end. Luckily, I saw the trail go down below. I had been telling Angie about the Fingerspan Bridge and I was hoping we'd find it. First, we went up some stairs. They were pretty steep and I flew up them. Angie walked up them and was surprised that I ran up them with such ease.
At the top was the Fingerspan Bridge. It's this pedestrian bridge that is high in the air. It's really neat, but Angie was a little uncomfortable walking over it. The bottom is open grate and so is the top. I love this part.
We continued along this fun section. There were a lot of cliffs and some more stairs. Angie wanted to stop at one pedestrian bridge and look at the water. Then, we climbed some more technical sections.
A large road bridge goes overhead. Finally, we came out to where the main path goes over the creek. We ran on that. It was much easier running. We were at around mile 7 at that point.
Both of us were nearly out of water. We got to a split and I told her we could either run up and ridge run on the trail again, or head back on the wide stone path that is Forbidden Drive. Since she was struggling, so I decided that we had had enough climbing. We took Forbidden Drive.
Of course, I forgot how hilly this can be. It's not too challenging, but there is quite a bit of gradual uphill. It is pretty too, with a wide stone road. I cruised along. Angie began walking up one hill, so I kept going.
I decided I'd run to the water fountain at Valley Green. Then, I'd bring water back in case she needed some. We were farther out then I thought. It was 9.4 miles when I got to the water. I filled up and headed back out.
Shortly after that, I saw Angie following another woman who was running. I thought maybe they were talking, but Angie was just pacing off of her. I ran with Angie back to the water fountain. She stopped and I ran out to mile 10. I got in just the miles that I had hoped for.
Other than the heat, I think Angie really enjoyed the run. I know I did. I love this unique place. It's kind of a hidden gem. At least the trails are. Maybe I'll try to set up a group run there when the leaves are changing. I bet that that would be amazing.
After we were done, Angie informed me that Gary was trying to get people together for a 4:45 PM run at Jacobsburg. I didn't have much recovery time, but I figured why not do it. I wanted a second trail run anyway. I was hoping to run in my new shoes, but they had not arrived yet.
Gary and I were the only ones running. He didn't feel that great to start, so we both took it easy. Rather than the normal route, he wanted to run the field section. I wasn't crazy about that with the sun blazing, but we did it.
We had a good chat going on and we were cruising along. We got to the long climb up to the field and that was kind of tough. I took it slow, but ran and Gary walked some. I headed back down briefly too and then climbed a short bit when I got back to Gary.
There was more gradual climbing in the field part. Then, we had a nice downhill. We were around 3 miles into the run when we reached the bottom.
We took the road across to the Sober's Run area, since he wasn't feeling terrible. My feet were sore from the earlier run and getting worse because I had my road shoes on. Since this trail is very non technical, that wasn't the worst thing though.
We then crossed the small bridge over Sober's Run and ran along that. This part was nice and easy. I didn't mind it.
Gary walked up the short hill at the end of this part. At the top, I saw he was struggling and nearly cramping, so I just took off. I ran the mile or more back to the car on my own.
I was doing good until the road segment. Then, my legs started to tire. It was a lot of trail running to do. I ran back to the car and then over to the bathrooms to throw some gum away. Finally, I finished up in the parking lot with a solid day.
It was a great day on trails and I need to do this more often. I really need more trail running partners. It makes the running even more enjoyable than it already is. Now, if only we could get some nice weather too.
Tomorrow, I'd like to get in 10 miles again. That may be one run or two runs. I'm definitely doing something on trail. I need to try out the new trail shoes and see how they work out. I may need to do one more long run in the old shoes though.
Wissahickon Run - 10 miles - 1:54:20 (11:26 pace)
Jacobsburg Run - 5.5 miles - 52:41 (9:30 pace)
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Pushing a Bit at J-Burg
Yesterday was frustrating with only 3 total miles. At least I got to climb. Today, I had to run more, but was going to cut back on the climbing. I thought of traveling, but didn't have the energy. I also didn't make it out until the evening.
I headed to Jacobsburg to run 10 miles. I had to really hustle there after dinner. It is getting darker and darker, earlier and earlier these days. Doing 10 miles would take around an hour and a half.
It was relatively cool out, but I still went shirtless. That was an awesome decision, as I felt great. I wore my grey shorts and somehow they were still soaked by the end though.
I rarely push myself at all on trails, even fast ones like this. I often take it easy. However, with the sun rapidly setting, I knew I needed a decent effort. It was about 6:45 when I finally started.
The plan was to start with the regular 6 mile loop. After that, I figured somehow I'd go to the open field section. That would have more light by that time. It ended up working out pretty well.
I didn't start off pushing too much, but with rested legs, the pace was fairly brisk. It was a great night and I enjoyed the early part along the creek. The short climb after that and across the road wasn't bad.
I'm not a huge fan of this park, but trail running in definitely awesome, just about anywhere, anytime. On a nice evening like this, it is very enjoyable. I should probably be thankful for such a nice park that is close by.
Mile 1 was a 9:12. The second mile was a much quicker 8:07. I cruised on the downhills. I wasn't pushing hard, but I can't say I was going easy either. I saw a few mountain bikers and two deer on the run. I guess I can't say that I don't see deer any more at Jacobsburg. It is now frequent.
A lot of the run was peaceful and by myself. The singletrack through the road crossings slowed me a little and so did the powerline climb. I tried to take that easy. At least the sun wasn't beating on me. Because of the powerline, mile 3 was a 9:00.
I knew that once I made it to the top of the powerline, I could fly most of the way back to my car. There's a lot of downhill, then some road and just a couple very short climbs. I did just that, as mile 4 was 8:17 and mile 5 was an even quicker 7:43. I don't often run that fast on this trail.
I was now almost back to my car. I thought about running the ridge section, but I wasn't sure how light it would be. That section would surely be dangerous in the dark. I opted to take it easy and stick to the main route. I'd have to add a little distance later.
I got back to the car right at mile 6. It was a super quick 7:23. I wondered how I could sustain this speed for so long. I just kept going though. By now, my shorts were surprisingly soaked and got more soaked, as I ran along.
I had to navigate by some people on the main path. That's the one thing I don't care for about that area. I felt awesome though and was simply flying up the short hills. Mile 7 was an 8:01. I had just begun the long ascend up to the field section.
I tried to back down my effort before this climb. That sort of worked, however, I had been pushing too hard. I was exhausted. I saw another trail runner here going the other way and a hiker too. The second switchback made it tough and so did the uneven gradual grassy part after that.
I knew I had to survive to the top. I guess I had worked too hard though, as I started getting a side sticker. I continued on. Mile 8 was an 8:56.
I thought I was in the clear at this point, as I had all descending to do. However, the side sticker didn't go away and in fact it got worse. It was so bad that I almost had to stop while going downhill. I was taking it easy too.
Eventually, it alleviated itself, but not before I ran an 8:37 downhill mile 9. I guess in the grand scheme of things, that wasn't so bad. Eventually I got back to my car and passed the runner again. I was at 9.25 miles.
It was getting very dark by now. I couldn't see my watch at all. I had the bezel locked, so I couldn't light it up either. I decided to go out and back on the main path again.
It was super dark now amongst the trees. I passed the woman and then I turned around when the trail started to climb. I had no idea how far I had to go. I scared the woman, as I came back from behind her.
My watch clicked as I neared the end of the trail. I was now at mile 10. That mile was an 8:45. I went to the end of the path, just slightly farther, and then walked back to the car.
It was a good run as I pushed fairly hard on trails. I was close to my limit. I might've done better if it wasn't so close after dinner time. I don't know, but I was happy with the run. I need to push myself here more often, since it is an easy trail. It's good for speed practice.
Tomorrow, I'm hoping to get on trails again. If I don't work, Angie and I will drive down to Philly. I want to run the Wissahickon Valley Park trails. I haven't been there since the winter of 2013. I love it there and miss that place. We could have a good 10 mile run. I love introducing people to new trails, so I hope it works out. I'll probably do a short run as well too. Maybe I'll do trail hill repeats, if I feel good.
10.06 miles - 1:24:33 (8:24 pace)
I headed to Jacobsburg to run 10 miles. I had to really hustle there after dinner. It is getting darker and darker, earlier and earlier these days. Doing 10 miles would take around an hour and a half.
It was relatively cool out, but I still went shirtless. That was an awesome decision, as I felt great. I wore my grey shorts and somehow they were still soaked by the end though.
I rarely push myself at all on trails, even fast ones like this. I often take it easy. However, with the sun rapidly setting, I knew I needed a decent effort. It was about 6:45 when I finally started.
The plan was to start with the regular 6 mile loop. After that, I figured somehow I'd go to the open field section. That would have more light by that time. It ended up working out pretty well.
I didn't start off pushing too much, but with rested legs, the pace was fairly brisk. It was a great night and I enjoyed the early part along the creek. The short climb after that and across the road wasn't bad.
I'm not a huge fan of this park, but trail running in definitely awesome, just about anywhere, anytime. On a nice evening like this, it is very enjoyable. I should probably be thankful for such a nice park that is close by.
Mile 1 was a 9:12. The second mile was a much quicker 8:07. I cruised on the downhills. I wasn't pushing hard, but I can't say I was going easy either. I saw a few mountain bikers and two deer on the run. I guess I can't say that I don't see deer any more at Jacobsburg. It is now frequent.
A lot of the run was peaceful and by myself. The singletrack through the road crossings slowed me a little and so did the powerline climb. I tried to take that easy. At least the sun wasn't beating on me. Because of the powerline, mile 3 was a 9:00.
I knew that once I made it to the top of the powerline, I could fly most of the way back to my car. There's a lot of downhill, then some road and just a couple very short climbs. I did just that, as mile 4 was 8:17 and mile 5 was an even quicker 7:43. I don't often run that fast on this trail.
I was now almost back to my car. I thought about running the ridge section, but I wasn't sure how light it would be. That section would surely be dangerous in the dark. I opted to take it easy and stick to the main route. I'd have to add a little distance later.
I got back to the car right at mile 6. It was a super quick 7:23. I wondered how I could sustain this speed for so long. I just kept going though. By now, my shorts were surprisingly soaked and got more soaked, as I ran along.
I had to navigate by some people on the main path. That's the one thing I don't care for about that area. I felt awesome though and was simply flying up the short hills. Mile 7 was an 8:01. I had just begun the long ascend up to the field section.
I tried to back down my effort before this climb. That sort of worked, however, I had been pushing too hard. I was exhausted. I saw another trail runner here going the other way and a hiker too. The second switchback made it tough and so did the uneven gradual grassy part after that.
I knew I had to survive to the top. I guess I had worked too hard though, as I started getting a side sticker. I continued on. Mile 8 was an 8:56.
I thought I was in the clear at this point, as I had all descending to do. However, the side sticker didn't go away and in fact it got worse. It was so bad that I almost had to stop while going downhill. I was taking it easy too.
Eventually, it alleviated itself, but not before I ran an 8:37 downhill mile 9. I guess in the grand scheme of things, that wasn't so bad. Eventually I got back to my car and passed the runner again. I was at 9.25 miles.
It was getting very dark by now. I couldn't see my watch at all. I had the bezel locked, so I couldn't light it up either. I decided to go out and back on the main path again.
It was super dark now amongst the trees. I passed the woman and then I turned around when the trail started to climb. I had no idea how far I had to go. I scared the woman, as I came back from behind her.
My watch clicked as I neared the end of the trail. I was now at mile 10. That mile was an 8:45. I went to the end of the path, just slightly farther, and then walked back to the car.
It was a good run as I pushed fairly hard on trails. I was close to my limit. I might've done better if it wasn't so close after dinner time. I don't know, but I was happy with the run. I need to push myself here more often, since it is an easy trail. It's good for speed practice.
Tomorrow, I'm hoping to get on trails again. If I don't work, Angie and I will drive down to Philly. I want to run the Wissahickon Valley Park trails. I haven't been there since the winter of 2013. I love it there and miss that place. We could have a good 10 mile run. I love introducing people to new trails, so I hope it works out. I'll probably do a short run as well too. Maybe I'll do trail hill repeats, if I feel good.
10.06 miles - 1:24:33 (8:24 pace)
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Super Hot Wind Gap Run
Yesterday was incredibly hot and humid and today was even worse. Only a complete dummy would decide to climb a mountain again. So, that's exactly what I did.
I waited until late in the afternoon and ran shirtless. I was very hot afterward, even with a short run. I was hoping for 5 or 6 miles, but the main goal was just to be able to climb. I headed to Wind Gap to run the AT. This will become a staple run for me eventually.
A few weeks back, I started there and ascended the trail northbound. That was tough and almost seemed straight up. It was very rocky too. This time, I decided to head southbound. I haven't run or hiked there in awhile, but I thought it was easier. I was only sort of correct.
It started with some road running. It was a short segment, but I had to cross the busy road and then run under the Route 33 Bridge. The start of the trail was quite steep steps. I walked those, but that didn't last long. The trail got better.
I just tried to take it easy and climb. This isn't a straight up climb. It is a series of switchbacks. It's not super rocky, but there are plenty of rocks and many of them are loose. It's a little challenging, but very runnable.
The switchbacks seemed to go on and on. The legs seemed kind of tired and my breathing got slightly labored. Still, I was determined to keep going. Finally, I did manage to get to the top.
I thought things would get easier at this point, but they sure didn't. I was on the ridge, but the trail went down a bit and then climbed again. There were some very huge rocks. This was way harder than the climb was.
The trail was slightly overgrown too. I was very surprised by that because I figured that a lot of thru hikers would've recently come through. It was hard to see the trail at times and it also seemed like the perfect place for a rattlesnake. At least I never saw one.
Going uphill, I tripped and fell. Falling on trails is very rare to me. At least this time it was on super technical trails. The first two times were easy runs and the last time was on a rocky section, but more so because I was pushing the pace.
At least this fall was uphill and I wasn't cut up for once. The trail wasn't getting any better and I was exhausted and dirty at this point. Therefore, I ended up walking for a bit. Finally, I got tired of the rocky and rough climbs. I turned around, not even a mile into the run. At least I had climbed pretty high up.
I had to be careful going down. It was slow descending through this rocky part. Then, I had a short uphill and finally, it was back on the switchbacks.
The switchbacks were a lot of fun going downhill. I cruised along on my tired legs. It wasn't long and I was back to the road. I was less than 2 miles into the run though.
I decided to do some more climbing. I headed to the other side of the gap. I figured that I would ascend there for as long as I could manage. Again, I had steep steps to start. I walked these briefly and was breathing heavily.
I then was able to recover and run again. I slowly made my way up the mountain. I managed about a quarter mile, before it became too much. I turned around and headed down. When I got to my car, it was 2.25 miles.
I figured that maybe I could try some road running and at least get 3 miles done. I ran downhill toward Wind Gap. I went to 2.62 miles, before coming back. The downhill wasn't bad.
I thought going uphill on roads might be easier, but it wasn't. In fact, it was super tough. It was overheating like crazy and it took a lot of work. I battled up the hill and finally made it to mile 3, near my car.
I was glad to climb again and also glad when this run was finally over. I wish I could've got more miles in, but I will be able to do that whenever it finally gets cooler. That can't come soon enough.
I wanted to run again at night. I was going to do a loop around Trexler. However, storms looked like they could move through and it rained some. I couldn't take a chance of running there at night, so I called it a day.
I definitely need a lot of miles tomorrow. It will still be hot, but maybe I'll handle it better. It won't be quite as bad tomorrow at least. I'd love to get 15 miles done. I want to travel, but to do that much, I might need to run somewhere easy. We shall see what I decide.
3 miles - 37:08 (12:23 pace)
I waited until late in the afternoon and ran shirtless. I was very hot afterward, even with a short run. I was hoping for 5 or 6 miles, but the main goal was just to be able to climb. I headed to Wind Gap to run the AT. This will become a staple run for me eventually.
A few weeks back, I started there and ascended the trail northbound. That was tough and almost seemed straight up. It was very rocky too. This time, I decided to head southbound. I haven't run or hiked there in awhile, but I thought it was easier. I was only sort of correct.
It started with some road running. It was a short segment, but I had to cross the busy road and then run under the Route 33 Bridge. The start of the trail was quite steep steps. I walked those, but that didn't last long. The trail got better.
I just tried to take it easy and climb. This isn't a straight up climb. It is a series of switchbacks. It's not super rocky, but there are plenty of rocks and many of them are loose. It's a little challenging, but very runnable.
The switchbacks seemed to go on and on. The legs seemed kind of tired and my breathing got slightly labored. Still, I was determined to keep going. Finally, I did manage to get to the top.
I thought things would get easier at this point, but they sure didn't. I was on the ridge, but the trail went down a bit and then climbed again. There were some very huge rocks. This was way harder than the climb was.
The trail was slightly overgrown too. I was very surprised by that because I figured that a lot of thru hikers would've recently come through. It was hard to see the trail at times and it also seemed like the perfect place for a rattlesnake. At least I never saw one.
Going uphill, I tripped and fell. Falling on trails is very rare to me. At least this time it was on super technical trails. The first two times were easy runs and the last time was on a rocky section, but more so because I was pushing the pace.
At least this fall was uphill and I wasn't cut up for once. The trail wasn't getting any better and I was exhausted and dirty at this point. Therefore, I ended up walking for a bit. Finally, I got tired of the rocky and rough climbs. I turned around, not even a mile into the run. At least I had climbed pretty high up.
I had to be careful going down. It was slow descending through this rocky part. Then, I had a short uphill and finally, it was back on the switchbacks.
The switchbacks were a lot of fun going downhill. I cruised along on my tired legs. It wasn't long and I was back to the road. I was less than 2 miles into the run though.
I decided to do some more climbing. I headed to the other side of the gap. I figured that I would ascend there for as long as I could manage. Again, I had steep steps to start. I walked these briefly and was breathing heavily.
I then was able to recover and run again. I slowly made my way up the mountain. I managed about a quarter mile, before it became too much. I turned around and headed down. When I got to my car, it was 2.25 miles.
I figured that maybe I could try some road running and at least get 3 miles done. I ran downhill toward Wind Gap. I went to 2.62 miles, before coming back. The downhill wasn't bad.
I thought going uphill on roads might be easier, but it wasn't. In fact, it was super tough. It was overheating like crazy and it took a lot of work. I battled up the hill and finally made it to mile 3, near my car.
I was glad to climb again and also glad when this run was finally over. I wish I could've got more miles in, but I will be able to do that whenever it finally gets cooler. That can't come soon enough.
I wanted to run again at night. I was going to do a loop around Trexler. However, storms looked like they could move through and it rained some. I couldn't take a chance of running there at night, so I called it a day.
I definitely need a lot of miles tomorrow. It will still be hot, but maybe I'll handle it better. It won't be quite as bad tomorrow at least. I'd love to get 15 miles done. I want to travel, but to do that much, I might need to run somewhere easy. We shall see what I decide.
3 miles - 37:08 (12:23 pace)
Monday, September 1, 2014
Super Humid Climb and Humid Evening Run Too
This weather is really getting annoying. After a terrible run on Saturday, I was hoping to bounce back with a long run yesterday. However, it was super hot and humid. Today, I think was even worse. I used yesterday as my off day, since I was so frustrated. That meant I had to run today.
In the morning, I took photos for the Saucon Rail Trail 10K. That meant an afternoon run. Foolish me thought that maybe a Lehigh Gap run would be a good idea. There was potential for rain and I guess I was hoping the clouds would hang around.
Of course I ran shirtless. I started before 2 PM. I was drenched and probably not too far from heat exhaustion either when I was done. It was crazy hot and humid.
I was hoping that I could make this a long run and maybe get in 15 miles. I knew that was wishful thinking though. That was too bad because I do want to climb each side of the gap at some point.
I started off going easy up the short climb to the LNE. I was breathing a little heavy, but I attributed that to not being warmed up. I passed a few hikers. I couldn't believe some of the people hiking on this day. They were out of shape.
I enjoyed the flat part of the LNE, once I got there. Then, the climbing began. I tried to take it slow. That became a little tough for some of the parts were so rocky. I steadily ascended though.
I was able to make it up the Prairie Grass Trail without walking. I was quite proud of that. A couple years back, I couldn't even get close to that far with Kelley in the heat. My progress has been great.
I was already several hundred feet up. Then, I went on to the Charcoal Trail. This part was much, much tougher. It got very rocky. At times, it is almost impossible to run up the rocks. They are jagged and often loose. I never actually have made it running up the whole time. Maybe I can pull that off in the fall.
I'm not sure if my breathing got labored first or the steep scramble over rocks did me in, but eventually I began hiking. I hiked until I could recover or there weren't as many rocks, but that was often.
I'd then run and not too much longer, I'd be walking again. It was back and forth. Some sections had shade, but that didn't matter much, as they were often super rocky. It was slow go and quite the struggle. Eventually, I at least made it into the trees completely.
I was still climbing though. I wanted to do the Blue Trail, but I was so beat at this point. I didn't want to run on an exposed, super hot ridge. Even with it being relatively flat, I knew it could still be a problem.
Once I got into the trees, it didn't get much better. The trail was partly overgrown. It was hard to even see the rocks that you were running on. I was able to run, but had to take it easy. I ended up passing a couple that was hiking the other way.
It was nice to start descending, but even then, things weren't easy. The trail was still slightly overgrown. I figured I would just have to battle it. I was surprised because this part leads to the Devil's Pulpit. I figured that a lot of hikers would come through there.
The trail did open up a little as I got farther down. I was able to fly somewhat. It was a little more fun. It wasn't too rocky either. Then, I got to the AT.
I had recovered on the downhills and wasn't feeling too bad at this point. Therefore, I decided to add a little more climbing. I'd headed up the AT. I'd climb for as long as I could manage. If it got too steep or I got too hot, I'd turn around.
I passed two hikers coming down. I thought I might have to stop right after them, as it was getting steep. However, it leveled off just in time. I was able to go up a few more times and do some ridge running too. It wasn't too bad on this section because it wasn't too rocky.
Eventually, I had had enough and turned around. Now, it was time to cruise downhill. I was a little over 3 miles into the run. I descended rather quickly on this way back. That is until I got back to the Blue Trail intersection. Then, it got rocky.
I passed the couple as they were resting at the shelter. The guy commented how impressed he was that I was running up the trail and I said that it was a little stupid of me today. I managed though.
I'm always amazed that I never trip on this part below the shelter. It is super steep and rocky. The rocks are huge and sticking up. I'm usually running at a decent pace. The other trail was overgrown and I needed mileage, so I stayed on the AT.
When I came out to Route 896, I crossed it and ran along the road. Then, I went back down to the D&L. I was approaching mile 5. I wanted to run to mile 6, but I was still too hot and exhausted. I didn't want to risk it on a simple easy mile.
Although I didn't put in the miles that I wanted, it was still a quality climbing day. I should be happy with that. When the weather gets better, I'll be able to do more at Lehigh Gap.
Since it bugs me to only do 5 miles of climbing, I headed out for an easy pavement run after dinner. My dad went along for a walk. We went to Penn Pump Park.
It was still humid, but felt much cooler with the setting sun. That is, it felt that way for awhile anyway. It wasn't long before I was soaked.
I headed out toward Tatamy. I was figuring on going out 1.5 to 1.75 miles one way and finishing up in the other direction. As I started off, another guy had turned around. I was now chasing him. He seemed to be moving pretty well.
I slowly reeled the guy in. I didn't try to go faster, but was probably quicker than I would've been otherwise. Within the first mile, I did catch and pass him. That was an 8:12 mile.
I tried not to push too much, but the legs sure felt awesome. I was cruising along. I began sweating a lot. I was breathing slightly heavy. A lot of people were out walking on this holiday.
At 1.5 miles, I decided to continue on. At 1.75 miles, I still kept going. I figured that while I was feeling good, I might as well keep going. Finally, I turned around before the road crossing into Tatamy. That was at 2 miles. That 2nd mile was run at 7:46.
There was a friendly woman that I had passed earlier. I never did catch up to her. Another young guy was running the other way. I didn't see the quick guy for some time. I can't believe that he would've stopped or slowed that much.
It seemed to take awhile to get through each mile. The heat was really starting to bother me. I continued on though. I was happy to make it to mile 3 with a 7:30 mile and then 3.5 miles.
Eventually, I got back to Penn Pump Park. I passed my dad walking the other way and let him know that I had a mile to go yet. Mile 4 was a 7:15.
I stayed focused and before long, I was out .6 miles on this part. I wanted to go out farther and walk a little. I turned around right before the next road crossing. I may have pushed a little. I finished up right after the pedestrian bridge, with a 7:32 mile.
Both of these runs were tough. I was even super soaked after the second run as well. I can't wait for summer to finally end and then I can get some quality running done. At least the calendar says September.
Tomorrow, I'm super busy. Therefore, I might not run until night. That may be good too, since it is supposed to be even worse tomorrow. I'd like to run 2 night loops at Trexler. That could be fun, although maybe a little weird on my own. I'll give it a shot though.
Lehigh Gap Run 5 miles - 1:00:40 (12:08 pace)
Pavement Run 5 miles - 38:15 (7:39 pace)
In the morning, I took photos for the Saucon Rail Trail 10K. That meant an afternoon run. Foolish me thought that maybe a Lehigh Gap run would be a good idea. There was potential for rain and I guess I was hoping the clouds would hang around.
Of course I ran shirtless. I started before 2 PM. I was drenched and probably not too far from heat exhaustion either when I was done. It was crazy hot and humid.
I was hoping that I could make this a long run and maybe get in 15 miles. I knew that was wishful thinking though. That was too bad because I do want to climb each side of the gap at some point.
I started off going easy up the short climb to the LNE. I was breathing a little heavy, but I attributed that to not being warmed up. I passed a few hikers. I couldn't believe some of the people hiking on this day. They were out of shape.
I enjoyed the flat part of the LNE, once I got there. Then, the climbing began. I tried to take it slow. That became a little tough for some of the parts were so rocky. I steadily ascended though.
I was able to make it up the Prairie Grass Trail without walking. I was quite proud of that. A couple years back, I couldn't even get close to that far with Kelley in the heat. My progress has been great.
I was already several hundred feet up. Then, I went on to the Charcoal Trail. This part was much, much tougher. It got very rocky. At times, it is almost impossible to run up the rocks. They are jagged and often loose. I never actually have made it running up the whole time. Maybe I can pull that off in the fall.
I'm not sure if my breathing got labored first or the steep scramble over rocks did me in, but eventually I began hiking. I hiked until I could recover or there weren't as many rocks, but that was often.
I'd then run and not too much longer, I'd be walking again. It was back and forth. Some sections had shade, but that didn't matter much, as they were often super rocky. It was slow go and quite the struggle. Eventually, I at least made it into the trees completely.
I was still climbing though. I wanted to do the Blue Trail, but I was so beat at this point. I didn't want to run on an exposed, super hot ridge. Even with it being relatively flat, I knew it could still be a problem.
Once I got into the trees, it didn't get much better. The trail was partly overgrown. It was hard to even see the rocks that you were running on. I was able to run, but had to take it easy. I ended up passing a couple that was hiking the other way.
It was nice to start descending, but even then, things weren't easy. The trail was still slightly overgrown. I figured I would just have to battle it. I was surprised because this part leads to the Devil's Pulpit. I figured that a lot of hikers would come through there.
The trail did open up a little as I got farther down. I was able to fly somewhat. It was a little more fun. It wasn't too rocky either. Then, I got to the AT.
I had recovered on the downhills and wasn't feeling too bad at this point. Therefore, I decided to add a little more climbing. I'd headed up the AT. I'd climb for as long as I could manage. If it got too steep or I got too hot, I'd turn around.
I passed two hikers coming down. I thought I might have to stop right after them, as it was getting steep. However, it leveled off just in time. I was able to go up a few more times and do some ridge running too. It wasn't too bad on this section because it wasn't too rocky.
Eventually, I had had enough and turned around. Now, it was time to cruise downhill. I was a little over 3 miles into the run. I descended rather quickly on this way back. That is until I got back to the Blue Trail intersection. Then, it got rocky.
I passed the couple as they were resting at the shelter. The guy commented how impressed he was that I was running up the trail and I said that it was a little stupid of me today. I managed though.
I'm always amazed that I never trip on this part below the shelter. It is super steep and rocky. The rocks are huge and sticking up. I'm usually running at a decent pace. The other trail was overgrown and I needed mileage, so I stayed on the AT.
When I came out to Route 896, I crossed it and ran along the road. Then, I went back down to the D&L. I was approaching mile 5. I wanted to run to mile 6, but I was still too hot and exhausted. I didn't want to risk it on a simple easy mile.
Although I didn't put in the miles that I wanted, it was still a quality climbing day. I should be happy with that. When the weather gets better, I'll be able to do more at Lehigh Gap.
Since it bugs me to only do 5 miles of climbing, I headed out for an easy pavement run after dinner. My dad went along for a walk. We went to Penn Pump Park.
It was still humid, but felt much cooler with the setting sun. That is, it felt that way for awhile anyway. It wasn't long before I was soaked.
I headed out toward Tatamy. I was figuring on going out 1.5 to 1.75 miles one way and finishing up in the other direction. As I started off, another guy had turned around. I was now chasing him. He seemed to be moving pretty well.
I slowly reeled the guy in. I didn't try to go faster, but was probably quicker than I would've been otherwise. Within the first mile, I did catch and pass him. That was an 8:12 mile.
I tried not to push too much, but the legs sure felt awesome. I was cruising along. I began sweating a lot. I was breathing slightly heavy. A lot of people were out walking on this holiday.
At 1.5 miles, I decided to continue on. At 1.75 miles, I still kept going. I figured that while I was feeling good, I might as well keep going. Finally, I turned around before the road crossing into Tatamy. That was at 2 miles. That 2nd mile was run at 7:46.
There was a friendly woman that I had passed earlier. I never did catch up to her. Another young guy was running the other way. I didn't see the quick guy for some time. I can't believe that he would've stopped or slowed that much.
It seemed to take awhile to get through each mile. The heat was really starting to bother me. I continued on though. I was happy to make it to mile 3 with a 7:30 mile and then 3.5 miles.
Eventually, I got back to Penn Pump Park. I passed my dad walking the other way and let him know that I had a mile to go yet. Mile 4 was a 7:15.
I stayed focused and before long, I was out .6 miles on this part. I wanted to go out farther and walk a little. I turned around right before the next road crossing. I may have pushed a little. I finished up right after the pedestrian bridge, with a 7:32 mile.
Both of these runs were tough. I was even super soaked after the second run as well. I can't wait for summer to finally end and then I can get some quality running done. At least the calendar says September.
Tomorrow, I'm super busy. Therefore, I might not run until night. That may be good too, since it is supposed to be even worse tomorrow. I'd like to run 2 night loops at Trexler. That could be fun, although maybe a little weird on my own. I'll give it a shot though.
Lehigh Gap Run 5 miles - 1:00:40 (12:08 pace)
Pavement Run 5 miles - 38:15 (7:39 pace)
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Disappointing Day at Tobyhanna
I don't remember who I was talking to last week, but I said that I have to run these really long runs at a familiar place. Today, I didn't listen to myself and paid for it. I planned 25 miles. I headed out to Tobyhanna State Park in the Poconos.
On paper, this looked like a good route. There was a 5 mile Lakeside Trail, that I didn't think I'd enjoy. However, there were two other trail options. One of them went out to Gouldesboro State Park. It appeared that there were would be some water there, so I thought that would be perfect. Things didn't go as planned though.
It was a tricky day. I wore a sleeveless shirt, as it was windy. That was especially true as I started near the lake. I did still sweat a lot though.
I headed out along the Lakeside Trail. It was a stone trail, as I suspected. I knew I wouldn't enjoy this too much. It wouldn't be bad for a short run, but it's not my kind of thing for a long run. On the plus side, it was super flat.
I walked some of the smaller uphills that I could find. I needed to be conservative early. This trail was busy. It is perfect for families or pet walkers and there were plenty of them. It had some lake views, but a lot of it was through the woods.
About a mile and a half out, I came to the Yellow Trail. I think I had hiked that briefly when we camped at this park. I remember not liking the trails that were there. I thought it was because I recall it being mostly grassy. I think some of it was rocky too. I don't know since I didn't take this trail.
I continued on. I was looking for the red blazed Frank Gantz Trail. After mile 2, I came to its intersection. In a perfect world, this would be a fun singletrack to the other park. Instead, it absolutely sucked. It was super rocky and went in and out. It was almost as bad at the AT. I was practically walking.
I was very frustrated. I figured I'd go for a bit though. I only made it out about half a mile on this trail and decided to forget about it. It was time to turn around. This was not going to be a good day, since I couldn't run this path.
I came back out to the Lakeside Trail. I was less than halfway around the loop. I could deal with this trail for a loop, or two or maybe even three. Any more than that though, would've annoyed the hell out of me.
At one point, I was walking and feeling like crap. The other issue was that my legs didn't feel all that great. Right as I decided to run, the trail became less stone and more natural trail. I think that that was the last time that I walked. At least I enjoyed some of this.
I cruised along, enjoying this boring loop as much as I could. At least it was easy. I now figured that this day was basically a waste. I guess I could've run a second loop, but I figured I'd just call it a day and rest up.
Eventually, I came out to the dam. That was kind of fun. I didn't have to run to the top of the dam, but that was possible, so I did it. Right after the dam, I came to a deer on the trail. It was a small one. I ran toward it and tried to yell for it to move. It wouldn't and it just froze. I decided to turn and run back the other way, rather than pass it on the narrow path. It then started to run on the trail below the dam, behind me. Then, it saw a hiker there and it froze again.
I turned back around again, now that the trail was free. I was nearly done with the loop at this point. I was near mile 6 when the loop was completed. However, I thought I need 7 miles for 60 miles for the week (it turns out I only needed 6).
I went out a bit. I thought about going out a full mile, but it was too chilly to walk back too far. I went out to 6.6 miles and then came back. I finished up right by a beach area. I then walked back to the start, very disappointed.
I didn't listen to my own advice of not running a place I didn't know. I need to save the weekdays for exploring places. I wish I could find a very good place for long runs. The fact that I didn't get a good run has continued to eat at me.
I now need a big day tomorrow. Gary is hosting a run around Nazareth. However, I think I might go to Trexler instead. I want to run 3 loops there. That would be a tough day and a quality workout. It would be great practice for my 50k. I'm most worried about how hot it is supposed to be, especially with little shade at Trexler. I also know that back in the spring, I was very sore after 2 easy loops there. A third one might be killer, but it's worth a shot. I do plan on taking Monday off anyway.
7 miles - 1:09:13 (9:53 pace)
On paper, this looked like a good route. There was a 5 mile Lakeside Trail, that I didn't think I'd enjoy. However, there were two other trail options. One of them went out to Gouldesboro State Park. It appeared that there were would be some water there, so I thought that would be perfect. Things didn't go as planned though.
It was a tricky day. I wore a sleeveless shirt, as it was windy. That was especially true as I started near the lake. I did still sweat a lot though.
I headed out along the Lakeside Trail. It was a stone trail, as I suspected. I knew I wouldn't enjoy this too much. It wouldn't be bad for a short run, but it's not my kind of thing for a long run. On the plus side, it was super flat.
I walked some of the smaller uphills that I could find. I needed to be conservative early. This trail was busy. It is perfect for families or pet walkers and there were plenty of them. It had some lake views, but a lot of it was through the woods.
About a mile and a half out, I came to the Yellow Trail. I think I had hiked that briefly when we camped at this park. I remember not liking the trails that were there. I thought it was because I recall it being mostly grassy. I think some of it was rocky too. I don't know since I didn't take this trail.
I continued on. I was looking for the red blazed Frank Gantz Trail. After mile 2, I came to its intersection. In a perfect world, this would be a fun singletrack to the other park. Instead, it absolutely sucked. It was super rocky and went in and out. It was almost as bad at the AT. I was practically walking.
I was very frustrated. I figured I'd go for a bit though. I only made it out about half a mile on this trail and decided to forget about it. It was time to turn around. This was not going to be a good day, since I couldn't run this path.
I came back out to the Lakeside Trail. I was less than halfway around the loop. I could deal with this trail for a loop, or two or maybe even three. Any more than that though, would've annoyed the hell out of me.
At one point, I was walking and feeling like crap. The other issue was that my legs didn't feel all that great. Right as I decided to run, the trail became less stone and more natural trail. I think that that was the last time that I walked. At least I enjoyed some of this.
I cruised along, enjoying this boring loop as much as I could. At least it was easy. I now figured that this day was basically a waste. I guess I could've run a second loop, but I figured I'd just call it a day and rest up.
Eventually, I came out to the dam. That was kind of fun. I didn't have to run to the top of the dam, but that was possible, so I did it. Right after the dam, I came to a deer on the trail. It was a small one. I ran toward it and tried to yell for it to move. It wouldn't and it just froze. I decided to turn and run back the other way, rather than pass it on the narrow path. It then started to run on the trail below the dam, behind me. Then, it saw a hiker there and it froze again.
I turned back around again, now that the trail was free. I was nearly done with the loop at this point. I was near mile 6 when the loop was completed. However, I thought I need 7 miles for 60 miles for the week (it turns out I only needed 6).
I went out a bit. I thought about going out a full mile, but it was too chilly to walk back too far. I went out to 6.6 miles and then came back. I finished up right by a beach area. I then walked back to the start, very disappointed.
I didn't listen to my own advice of not running a place I didn't know. I need to save the weekdays for exploring places. I wish I could find a very good place for long runs. The fact that I didn't get a good run has continued to eat at me.
I now need a big day tomorrow. Gary is hosting a run around Nazareth. However, I think I might go to Trexler instead. I want to run 3 loops there. That would be a tough day and a quality workout. It would be great practice for my 50k. I'm most worried about how hot it is supposed to be, especially with little shade at Trexler. I also know that back in the spring, I was very sore after 2 easy loops there. A third one might be killer, but it's worth a shot. I do plan on taking Monday off anyway.
7 miles - 1:09:13 (9:53 pace)
Friday, August 29, 2014
Nice and Easy J-Burg 6
I was struggling to get moving today. I felt quite sluggish. I had to get out and run. I really wanted to run 10 miles on trails, but I knew as the day wore on that I wasn't going to do that. I headed to Jacobsburg around dinner time. I was now hoping for 6 miles.
It was pretty cool by August standards. I even started with a shirt and that lasted about 2.5 miles. I wasn't soaked, but still sweating by the end. The weather is slowly getting better though.
I couldn't decide where to start. At first, it was going to be the standard loop. I thought about running it in reverse though. Instead, I headed to the Sober's Run area, to just stay there.
I ran this loop in reverse of usual. That meant some nice singletrack pretty early on. The legs felt quite crappy to start, particularly my upper quads. The singletrack did help.
I love the singletrack section, it is so much fun. I wish the entire trail was made up of that. After the first singletrack was over, I headed to the second fun section, along the other creek. I was enjoying these parts.
I still wasn't feeling great though. I dreaded the next section. It was a long and gradual uphill. I passed a guy going very slow uphill on a mountain bike. I ending up surprising him. I rarely go this way because the ascend is so much more gradual than the powerline cut. It's not hard, but just long.
Eventually, I was up the hill. Then, it was down the powerline cut. I was nearly at mile 3. I took off my shirt at this point and when I got back to my car, I left it there. I was just under 3 miles at that point.
I decided to take the loop on each side of Sober's Run. That would give me a lot of fun, easy singletrack. First, it was on to the flat path. Then, I was along the creek. Toward the end of this first half of the loop, two mountain bikers came flying the other way and I had to move for them.
Again, I enjoyed the ridge singletrack. My legs did too. Before long, I was back to my starting point. It was basically mile 5. I was surprised that it wasn't shorter than that.
I decided that I would run the same loop again, but cut across the creek to shorten it. That was nice and ice cold, but maybe not the best idea. I need to wear those shoes for the long run tomorrow and now they are soaked.
I finished up with a brief out and back along the main path. It wasn't my best or worst run, but I got it done. Hopefully I'll feel better tomorrow. I still can't decide where I'm running then, but I'm looking for 25 trail miles.
6 miles - 55:37 (9:16 pace)
It was pretty cool by August standards. I even started with a shirt and that lasted about 2.5 miles. I wasn't soaked, but still sweating by the end. The weather is slowly getting better though.
I couldn't decide where to start. At first, it was going to be the standard loop. I thought about running it in reverse though. Instead, I headed to the Sober's Run area, to just stay there.
I ran this loop in reverse of usual. That meant some nice singletrack pretty early on. The legs felt quite crappy to start, particularly my upper quads. The singletrack did help.
I love the singletrack section, it is so much fun. I wish the entire trail was made up of that. After the first singletrack was over, I headed to the second fun section, along the other creek. I was enjoying these parts.
I still wasn't feeling great though. I dreaded the next section. It was a long and gradual uphill. I passed a guy going very slow uphill on a mountain bike. I ending up surprising him. I rarely go this way because the ascend is so much more gradual than the powerline cut. It's not hard, but just long.
Eventually, I was up the hill. Then, it was down the powerline cut. I was nearly at mile 3. I took off my shirt at this point and when I got back to my car, I left it there. I was just under 3 miles at that point.
I decided to take the loop on each side of Sober's Run. That would give me a lot of fun, easy singletrack. First, it was on to the flat path. Then, I was along the creek. Toward the end of this first half of the loop, two mountain bikers came flying the other way and I had to move for them.
Again, I enjoyed the ridge singletrack. My legs did too. Before long, I was back to my starting point. It was basically mile 5. I was surprised that it wasn't shorter than that.
I decided that I would run the same loop again, but cut across the creek to shorten it. That was nice and ice cold, but maybe not the best idea. I need to wear those shoes for the long run tomorrow and now they are soaked.
I finished up with a brief out and back along the main path. It wasn't my best or worst run, but I got it done. Hopefully I'll feel better tomorrow. I still can't decide where I'm running then, but I'm looking for 25 trail miles.
6 miles - 55:37 (9:16 pace)
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