Red Rocks Canyon was created from a mosaic of features that don't typically scream "State Park destination!" It is a park built around the remnants of a rock quarry, landfill, illicit climbing walls and abandoned ranch sites that has somehow managed to evolve into one of the most scenic parks in the state. The Canyon is a Garden of the Gods in minature version; a rougher, less traveled park without all of the over trafficked, McDonald's fueled tourists that clog the Garden during the warm summer months.
Red Rocks is a great trail running destination; with all of the pine forests, sandstone formations and open meadows that the Garden has, without the paved roads and paths that created throngs of tourists. The formations here are not as dramatic, but they create multiple canyons that are easy to explore via the trails, and provide for some suprisingly dramatic scenery.
Generally the terrain from the parking lot slopes uphill, making runs here more climbing oriented. Due to the mishmash of ways in which the park was used before its birth, there are some oddities that occasionally pop up during runs. For instance, the graffiti filled cave off of the Red Rock Rim Trail that was a big party spot for local high school kids, the remnants of the old quarry where the rock has been removed in large blocks and the large methane vents dotting the meadow where the Hogback Valley Trail runs; vestiges of the landfill that decays slowly underneath the meadow.
One of the best features of this park is its access to the Intemann Trail and the Section 16 area, allowing you to expand your runs beyond the park and into the higher foothills of the Springs area. Currently a hot spot for runners, climbers and mountain bikers, Red Rocks is a great place to put in some miles, check out the views and enjoy the benefits of good urban planning, without RVs barreling towards you.
Trail map here (PDF version)
Distance: trail lengths vary. The longest, the Lion Trail, is 1.0 miles. Trails can easily be linked to create longer runs, and the park connects with Section 16 and the Intemann Trail; allowing for longer pieces.
Directions: From downtown Colorado Springs (W. Colorado Avenue at S. Cascade Avenue), take S. Cascade south to Cimmaron/Highway 24 and take a right, heading west. Take a left on Ridge Road and then a left on West High Street. The parking lot is on the right. From downtown Manitou Springs (Ruxton Ave and Manitou Avenue), take Manitou Ave. east towards Colorado Springs. Take the Highway 24 onramp towards the east (entrance is after the Sinclair gas station). Take a right on Ridge Road and a left on W. High Street toward the parking lot.
View Red Rocks Canyon - Colorado Springs, CO in a larger map
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Friday, May 22, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The Frugal Traveler checks out Eagle Creek
The New York Time's "Frugal Traveler" dude recently posted a column about hiking and camping along the Eagle Creek Trail, near Portland, OR. He doesn't really add much about the trail, other than astute observations about the weather ("persistent drizzle") the waterfalls ("chock full" of them!) abundance of good camping spots and earth shattering realization that you can actually cook steaks and camp! The one good thing about the article is the Risotto recipe that appears near the end. It actually sounds like it would be a decent camping meal. We have yet to hike the trail for camping purposes, but if you do, know that the crowds decrease exponentially past the third mile (where Punch Bowl Falls is) and the upper campgrounds are incredibly gorgeous places to spend a night or two but can fill up quick during the summer months.
For the truly frugal, run the thing; it's a much faster, and lighter, way to enjoy the trail.
For the truly frugal, run the thing; it's a much faster, and lighter, way to enjoy the trail.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
South Waterfront/Sellwood Loop - Portland, OR
My attempts to become a stronger endurance athlete have had to contend with a simultaneous progression of my development into a 205lb, Clydesdale Class male. For most things, moving my weight around has not been a problem. I find that any run under 13 miles, or any ride or hike that is not composed solely of climbs is doable. Anything much beyond results in knees that threaten to blow out of my body and a groin area that chafes to the point of bleeding. I like my mass, and it's ability to fill out spandex, but I also like my knees.
Recently, while training for a half marathon, I had to reach a compromise with myself to ensure my ability to walk past my 40's. I decided that for shorter, cross training days I would stick to the hilly stuff that I love, but do my longer pieces in the flatlands. The South Waterfront/Sellwood Loop quickly became the basis of my flat, knee friendly, training grounds for Portland area races.
The biggest climbs you'll find along this route are up to the bridges. Winding along the Williamette River, this loop provides abundant views of the River and long, flat straightaways that are great for putting in mileage and intervals. Additionally, the run winds through the new South Waterfront area, Portland's effort at high priced condo/commerical development. Not nearly as organic as the Pearl, the South Waterfront is the result of a planned effort to create high end living. Think the South Beach Miami condo scene, with more rain. This area does not yet feel like a community, and is curiously sterile in appearence, but it provides an interesting area to explore via a run.
Starting at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, the loops winds over the Hawthorne Bridge and drops onto the Eastbank Esplanade, and then heads south where it connects with the Springwater Corridor. Long, paved, popular, well marked and flat, the Springwater is the best place for intervals along this route. We typically do this section of the route first, as it is seemingly never ending, and often boring in parts. However, it's a great way to reach the Sellwood area via running shoe or bike.
After the Springwater reaches the Sellwood Bridge, the route heads west across the bridge and then turns north, along the parks and trails that form the South Waterfront area. Unlike the Springwater Corridor, this section of the route is scenic, and winds through green spaces, condo developments and the new South Waterfront developments that dominant the Portland skyline south of downtown. While not complete, the South Waterfront area contains some cool restaurants, cafes and bars to explore and freshen up after a flat, knee saving run.
Distance: 8.5 miles round trip
Directions: Starting at Tom McCall Waterfront Park (SW Columbia St and SW Naito Parkway), south of the Hawthorne Bridge, head north and on to the pedestrian section of the Hawthorne Bridge and head east. The pedestrian crossing will have a turn off on the right, which loops down to the Eastbank Esplanade. Take this and then head south on the paved path along the east bank of the Williamette.
After OMSI (the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) the path will intersect with SE Caruthers Street. Head east along the street, through an industrial section, and then turn right, on to SE 4th Street which will put you directly on to the Springwater Corridor. Take the Corridor south for 3 miles until it intersects with SE Spokane Street. Take a left and then your first right on to SE 6th Ave, which will bring you to SE Tacoma Street. Head right on to the Sellwood Bridge.
After crossing the bridge take the pedestrian sidewalk down to the path that runs below the bridge. Head north (toward downtown) along the path which will put you on to a sidwalk that parallels SW MacAdam Ave. Continue on the sidewalk for 3/5ths of a mile and take a right on SW Nevada St. Run through the park area and on to the path that runs along the bank of the Williamette.
Take the paved path north where it is broken in a few spots by parking lots, before winding into a condo development area. Continue along the path, passing condos, office buildings and restaurants. Eventually the path will turn until it parallels railroad tracks, after which it dumps you on to SW Moody Ave. This road will take you through the South Waterfront development and under the highways before intersecting with SW River Parkway. Take a right and a left on to a paved path that will bring you through the Riverplace Development, ending back back at Tom McCall Park.
View South Waterfront/Sellwood Loop - Portland, OR in a larger map
Recently, while training for a half marathon, I had to reach a compromise with myself to ensure my ability to walk past my 40's. I decided that for shorter, cross training days I would stick to the hilly stuff that I love, but do my longer pieces in the flatlands. The South Waterfront/Sellwood Loop quickly became the basis of my flat, knee friendly, training grounds for Portland area races.
The biggest climbs you'll find along this route are up to the bridges. Winding along the Williamette River, this loop provides abundant views of the River and long, flat straightaways that are great for putting in mileage and intervals. Additionally, the run winds through the new South Waterfront area, Portland's effort at high priced condo/commerical development. Not nearly as organic as the Pearl, the South Waterfront is the result of a planned effort to create high end living. Think the South Beach Miami condo scene, with more rain. This area does not yet feel like a community, and is curiously sterile in appearence, but it provides an interesting area to explore via a run.
Starting at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, the loops winds over the Hawthorne Bridge and drops onto the Eastbank Esplanade, and then heads south where it connects with the Springwater Corridor. Long, paved, popular, well marked and flat, the Springwater is the best place for intervals along this route. We typically do this section of the route first, as it is seemingly never ending, and often boring in parts. However, it's a great way to reach the Sellwood area via running shoe or bike.
After the Springwater reaches the Sellwood Bridge, the route heads west across the bridge and then turns north, along the parks and trails that form the South Waterfront area. Unlike the Springwater Corridor, this section of the route is scenic, and winds through green spaces, condo developments and the new South Waterfront developments that dominant the Portland skyline south of downtown. While not complete, the South Waterfront area contains some cool restaurants, cafes and bars to explore and freshen up after a flat, knee saving run.
Distance: 8.5 miles round trip
Directions: Starting at Tom McCall Waterfront Park (SW Columbia St and SW Naito Parkway), south of the Hawthorne Bridge, head north and on to the pedestrian section of the Hawthorne Bridge and head east. The pedestrian crossing will have a turn off on the right, which loops down to the Eastbank Esplanade. Take this and then head south on the paved path along the east bank of the Williamette.
After OMSI (the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) the path will intersect with SE Caruthers Street. Head east along the street, through an industrial section, and then turn right, on to SE 4th Street which will put you directly on to the Springwater Corridor. Take the Corridor south for 3 miles until it intersects with SE Spokane Street. Take a left and then your first right on to SE 6th Ave, which will bring you to SE Tacoma Street. Head right on to the Sellwood Bridge.
After crossing the bridge take the pedestrian sidewalk down to the path that runs below the bridge. Head north (toward downtown) along the path which will put you on to a sidwalk that parallels SW MacAdam Ave. Continue on the sidewalk for 3/5ths of a mile and take a right on SW Nevada St. Run through the park area and on to the path that runs along the bank of the Williamette.
Take the paved path north where it is broken in a few spots by parking lots, before winding into a condo development area. Continue along the path, passing condos, office buildings and restaurants. Eventually the path will turn until it parallels railroad tracks, after which it dumps you on to SW Moody Ave. This road will take you through the South Waterfront development and under the highways before intersecting with SW River Parkway. Take a right and a left on to a paved path that will bring you through the Riverplace Development, ending back back at Tom McCall Park.
View South Waterfront/Sellwood Loop - Portland, OR in a larger map
Intemann Trail / Red Rock Park Loop - Manitou Springs, CO
This route reflects our attempt to link Manitou's Intemann Trail with Red Rock Canyon, the latest addition to Colorado's State Park System. Due to a break in the Intemman Trail near the Manitou Springs High School, this route is composed of a mix of road and trail running, resulting in a twisting route that sometimes feels unnecessarily long, but provides some of the best views and trail running the in Manitou/Colorado Springs area.
The run starts on Manitou Avenue's intersection with Ruxton Ave., where it heads west up Ruxton, turns on Spring Street and heads up a fairly steep, but short, climb on to the Intemann Trail. The Intemann runs east along the foothills south of Manitou until it ends at the Manitou Springs Cemetery. Due to some property/easement issues which prevents a continuation of the trail through the cemetery, the trail picks up again near the Crystal Park neighborhood entrance, requiring a long stretch of road running between the cemetery and the next trailhead. From the Crystal Park trailhead, the Intemann begins its climb into the Red Rock Canyon area, passing a variety of red sandstone formations before intersecting with a connecting trail leading down into the Canyon (the spur is clearly marked). The Intemann varies in width; from singletrack to car lane. Be careful on the spur between Crystal Park and Red Rock Canyon, it's a popular section for mountain bikers.
Red Rock Canyon provides multiple options for working your through its environs. Part of the fun of the park is exploring its nooks and crannies, so please use our route as a rough guide, our path is but one of many to be taken. Because the park is so new many of the "trails" have yet to be marked, but the cororallary is that the park itself has fewer crowds, allowing for more serene runs than the Garden of the Gods can provide. The views of the park, above and from within, are incredibly beautiful, and make the numb feeling in your toes worth it. There are few places in the Springs area that provide such accessible, dramatic views.
The return route to Manitou consists of side roads back to downtown, passing near the Garden of the Gods, allowing for an extended loop if your legs are up for more work. Make sure to check out the new creek path near the Highway 24 overpass when running west on El Paso Boulevard. The path will dump you out near the Briahurst Manor, allowing you to take Manitou Avenue back into downtown Manitou, where food and recovery beer abound.
Distance: 11 miles round trip
Directions: Starting at the intersection of Manitou Avenue and Ruxton Avenue, run up Ruxton towards the Cog Railroad Depot and take a left on Spring Street (a dirt road, about 1/4 of a mile from the intersection). Once on Spring Street the road will head uphill with a spur taking a hairpin right, continuing uphill. Take the spur which will bring you to the chained entrance to Intemann Trail. Continue uphill where the trail will eventually level off and begin a slow descent to Pawnee Ave where it will end.
Once on Pawnee, head downhill and take a right on Fairmont Avenue. Take Fairmont until it dead ends, at which you can access a short spur of the Intemann trail that will put you on to Delaware Road. Head east on Delaware Road until it dead ends. At the dead end is where the Intemann picks up again, bringing you through a small playground and gradually winding uphill toward the Manitou Springs Middle School. Near the Middle School the trail will take a sharp right and head downhill. Continue on until you you are above the Manitou Springs High School, where the trail will again head downhill and deposit you in the Manitou Springs Cemetery.
Run downhill to exit the cemetery, which will deposit you on to Plainview Place. Continue downhill, where the road will veer right and eventually intersect with Poplar Place. A left on Poplar deposits you on to Crystal Park Road. Take a right on Crystal Park Road (heading east) and run 1.5 miles up to the next Intemann Trail trailhead (there will be a sign on the left). Be careful on this segment; there are no sidewalks, and a few blind corners. Thankfully traffic is usually light.
Once back on the Intemann, the trail will head east, winding above the Crystal Hills neighborhood. About 1.15 miles from the Crystal Park Road entrance, the trail will intersect with an access trail for Red Rocks Park. Take this access trail, winding down toward Red Rocks Park, where the trail will eventually intersect with a much wider path. There are a variety of ways to wind down through the park, so definitely explore.
After reaching the park's parking lot, cross Highway 24 and West Colorado Ave via Ridge Road. At West Pikes Peak Ave. take a left and run to the intersection with Columbia Road, where you want to take a right and then your first left on to El Paso Boulevard. El Paso will take you all the way back into Manitou. Our route uses a new path that starts near the Manitou Springs Skate Park and runs behind the pool along Fountain Creek until it ends at the Briarhurst Manor. From there, continue West back in to downtown Manitou.
View Larger Map
The run starts on Manitou Avenue's intersection with Ruxton Ave., where it heads west up Ruxton, turns on Spring Street and heads up a fairly steep, but short, climb on to the Intemann Trail. The Intemann runs east along the foothills south of Manitou until it ends at the Manitou Springs Cemetery. Due to some property/easement issues which prevents a continuation of the trail through the cemetery, the trail picks up again near the Crystal Park neighborhood entrance, requiring a long stretch of road running between the cemetery and the next trailhead. From the Crystal Park trailhead, the Intemann begins its climb into the Red Rock Canyon area, passing a variety of red sandstone formations before intersecting with a connecting trail leading down into the Canyon (the spur is clearly marked). The Intemann varies in width; from singletrack to car lane. Be careful on the spur between Crystal Park and Red Rock Canyon, it's a popular section for mountain bikers.
Red Rock Canyon provides multiple options for working your through its environs. Part of the fun of the park is exploring its nooks and crannies, so please use our route as a rough guide, our path is but one of many to be taken. Because the park is so new many of the "trails" have yet to be marked, but the cororallary is that the park itself has fewer crowds, allowing for more serene runs than the Garden of the Gods can provide. The views of the park, above and from within, are incredibly beautiful, and make the numb feeling in your toes worth it. There are few places in the Springs area that provide such accessible, dramatic views.
The return route to Manitou consists of side roads back to downtown, passing near the Garden of the Gods, allowing for an extended loop if your legs are up for more work. Make sure to check out the new creek path near the Highway 24 overpass when running west on El Paso Boulevard. The path will dump you out near the Briahurst Manor, allowing you to take Manitou Avenue back into downtown Manitou, where food and recovery beer abound.
Distance: 11 miles round trip
Directions: Starting at the intersection of Manitou Avenue and Ruxton Avenue, run up Ruxton towards the Cog Railroad Depot and take a left on Spring Street (a dirt road, about 1/4 of a mile from the intersection). Once on Spring Street the road will head uphill with a spur taking a hairpin right, continuing uphill. Take the spur which will bring you to the chained entrance to Intemann Trail. Continue uphill where the trail will eventually level off and begin a slow descent to Pawnee Ave where it will end.
Once on Pawnee, head downhill and take a right on Fairmont Avenue. Take Fairmont until it dead ends, at which you can access a short spur of the Intemann trail that will put you on to Delaware Road. Head east on Delaware Road until it dead ends. At the dead end is where the Intemann picks up again, bringing you through a small playground and gradually winding uphill toward the Manitou Springs Middle School. Near the Middle School the trail will take a sharp right and head downhill. Continue on until you you are above the Manitou Springs High School, where the trail will again head downhill and deposit you in the Manitou Springs Cemetery.
Run downhill to exit the cemetery, which will deposit you on to Plainview Place. Continue downhill, where the road will veer right and eventually intersect with Poplar Place. A left on Poplar deposits you on to Crystal Park Road. Take a right on Crystal Park Road (heading east) and run 1.5 miles up to the next Intemann Trail trailhead (there will be a sign on the left). Be careful on this segment; there are no sidewalks, and a few blind corners. Thankfully traffic is usually light.
Once back on the Intemann, the trail will head east, winding above the Crystal Hills neighborhood. About 1.15 miles from the Crystal Park Road entrance, the trail will intersect with an access trail for Red Rocks Park. Take this access trail, winding down toward Red Rocks Park, where the trail will eventually intersect with a much wider path. There are a variety of ways to wind down through the park, so definitely explore.
After reaching the park's parking lot, cross Highway 24 and West Colorado Ave via Ridge Road. At West Pikes Peak Ave. take a left and run to the intersection with Columbia Road, where you want to take a right and then your first left on to El Paso Boulevard. El Paso will take you all the way back into Manitou. Our route uses a new path that starts near the Manitou Springs Skate Park and runs behind the pool along Fountain Creek until it ends at the Briarhurst Manor. From there, continue West back in to downtown Manitou.
View Larger Map
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Forest Park - Portland, OR
As a rule, running in Portland during the rainy season will require that you get muddy. Very very muddy. And since Portland's rainy season is fairly extended, embracing the idea of getting covered in mud every time you hit a trail is the best way to start enjoying Portland's abundant running options.
Our nominee for "Muddiest Place in Portland Where Hot Girls Like to Run" is Forest Park, located in the hills west of downtown. The park is the "largest forested natural area within city limits" in the United States, which translates to a huge variety of running trails and multiple points of access throughout the western edge of Portland's downtown; allowing you to run from Portland's city core, to a quiet, verdant forest in less than 10 minutes. Because of the dense forest, and Portland's abundant rain, the trail system in Forest Park gets muddy and stays muddy for a while, making for rather messy jaunts. Working through the mud is well worth the effort, as the trails here are some of the best and most scenic in Portland. For the most part, nothing in the park becomes too impassable; foot placement and a towel in the car are the keys.
The trails within Forest Park are almost all single track, and wind throughout more than 5,000 acres, making learning the trails a fairly difficult task. We have often started a run only to find ourselves inadvertently looping back to the same spots. The key to figuring out the trails is the Wildwood Trail, a 30 mile trail that runs the entire North to South length of the park. Most trails branch off of the Wildwood, making it a good foundation for extended loops. Another good foundation is Leif Erickson Drive, which is a intermittently paved road that runs north 11.2 miles from the Thurman Street entrance to its terminus at Germantown Road, paralleling the Wildwood Trail for much of its length.
Unfortunately our mapping abilities fail us in the dense forests, so until we are up an running with a more GPS centric method, we leave you with links to maps (bad maps - again, we apologize). We have, however, outlined the general park area and have provided links for maps and various trailhead/park entry points. There are parking lots near the entry points, however, during peak times (morning, late afternoon) they fill up fast, so be prepared to park in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Trail Maps:
Friends of Forest Park Maps (very basic)
Topo Map (giant PDF file)
Trailhead Map
View Larger Map
Our nominee for "Muddiest Place in Portland Where Hot Girls Like to Run" is Forest Park, located in the hills west of downtown. The park is the "largest forested natural area within city limits" in the United States, which translates to a huge variety of running trails and multiple points of access throughout the western edge of Portland's downtown; allowing you to run from Portland's city core, to a quiet, verdant forest in less than 10 minutes. Because of the dense forest, and Portland's abundant rain, the trail system in Forest Park gets muddy and stays muddy for a while, making for rather messy jaunts. Working through the mud is well worth the effort, as the trails here are some of the best and most scenic in Portland. For the most part, nothing in the park becomes too impassable; foot placement and a towel in the car are the keys.
The trails within Forest Park are almost all single track, and wind throughout more than 5,000 acres, making learning the trails a fairly difficult task. We have often started a run only to find ourselves inadvertently looping back to the same spots. The key to figuring out the trails is the Wildwood Trail, a 30 mile trail that runs the entire North to South length of the park. Most trails branch off of the Wildwood, making it a good foundation for extended loops. Another good foundation is Leif Erickson Drive, which is a intermittently paved road that runs north 11.2 miles from the Thurman Street entrance to its terminus at Germantown Road, paralleling the Wildwood Trail for much of its length.
Unfortunately our mapping abilities fail us in the dense forests, so until we are up an running with a more GPS centric method, we leave you with links to maps (bad maps - again, we apologize). We have, however, outlined the general park area and have provided links for maps and various trailhead/park entry points. There are parking lots near the entry points, however, during peak times (morning, late afternoon) they fill up fast, so be prepared to park in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Trail Maps:
Friends of Forest Park Maps (very basic)
Topo Map (giant PDF file)
Trailhead Map
View Larger Map
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Mount Sanitas - Boulder, CO
We here at TWW do not often recommend going from 0 to 60 in the first five minutes of a workout, but unfortunately for our legs there are just some routes that are worth destroying them for. We count Mount Sanitas among that group - a route that is completely unforgiving, but worth every second of leg pain.
Almost a Boulder version of the Incline, Mount Sanitas is essentially a steep hike that is variably runnable, winding up the rocky ridge Sanitas where it tops out about 1.4 miles in. The trail is well worn, with some sections cut directly into the rock ridge, making it an adventure in foot placement and pacing. The views along the way and at the top are some of the best you'll find in the Boulder area, making the fact that you can't feel your calves easier to accept.
One drawback; finding the way back down in order to make the run a loop is a bit confusing. The East Ridge trail winds down to the Sanitas Valley trail which we take back to the parking lot. The problem with the East Ridge trail is that it is not clearly marked. Our best advice is to follow the most worn path, and keep your eyes open for the random trail markers. Our map shows the Mount Sinatas trail, the route down via the East Ridge trail, and then the Sanitas Valley trail back to the parking lot. A more label intensive map can be found here.
Distance: 1.4 miles to the summit, 3.0 miles roundtrip.
Directions: From 9th and Pearl Street, take Pearl Street west and take a right on 4th Street, a left on Spruce, and then another right on 4th. Take 4th north to Mapelton and take a left. There are lots on both the north and south sides of the street. Additionally, you can generally park on the road and walk up to the trailhead.
View Larger Map
Almost a Boulder version of the Incline, Mount Sanitas is essentially a steep hike that is variably runnable, winding up the rocky ridge Sanitas where it tops out about 1.4 miles in. The trail is well worn, with some sections cut directly into the rock ridge, making it an adventure in foot placement and pacing. The views along the way and at the top are some of the best you'll find in the Boulder area, making the fact that you can't feel your calves easier to accept.
One drawback; finding the way back down in order to make the run a loop is a bit confusing. The East Ridge trail winds down to the Sanitas Valley trail which we take back to the parking lot. The problem with the East Ridge trail is that it is not clearly marked. Our best advice is to follow the most worn path, and keep your eyes open for the random trail markers. Our map shows the Mount Sinatas trail, the route down via the East Ridge trail, and then the Sanitas Valley trail back to the parking lot. A more label intensive map can be found here.
Distance: 1.4 miles to the summit, 3.0 miles roundtrip.
Directions: From 9th and Pearl Street, take Pearl Street west and take a right on 4th Street, a left on Spruce, and then another right on 4th. Take 4th north to Mapelton and take a left. There are lots on both the north and south sides of the street. Additionally, you can generally park on the road and walk up to the trailhead.
View Larger Map
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Boulder Reservoir - Boulder, CO
One of the basic tenets to keep in mind when running in Boulder is that no matter how many races you've done (or even won), or how many miles you have logged this year in training, there is always going to be some member of some national team that is going to run past you and make you feel obese (Boulder + South Korean woman's national cross country team + running + me = resurfacing of childhood trauma).
The Boulder Reservoir is a great place to get in a run and spot some elite level athletes. A great dirt option without the trail running obstacles, the reservoir provides a mix of well beaten trails and dirt roads that wind around the water and the neighborhoods surrounding it. The area around the reservoir is mostly flat, with a few rolling hills. The reservoir is also home to a number of Boulder's big races, including the Boulder Triathlon Series and the Boulder Backroads Marathon and Half-Marathon. The views of the Flatirons from the run are outstanding, especially when the sun is rising and lighting up those things brighter than a fat kid's smile when he spots cake.
Our map below shows the main loop around the reservoir that we usually run and an extension that adds 3/4 of a mile. There are a number of other loops possible, we hope ours provide a good starting point for your own exploring. We always park at the parking lot before the gate to the reservoir, in order to avoid the day use fee.
Distance: 5.25 miles (main loop) 6.05 miles (extended loop)
Directions: From downtown Boulder (9th St. and Pearl St.), take 9th St. south to Canyon, take a left on Canyon and head to 28th St. Take a left on 28th and head up to Jay Road where you will take a right. Take a left on 51st St and continue north until you hit Reservoir Road. Park at the lot before the gate to the reservoir.
View Larger Map
The Boulder Reservoir is a great place to get in a run and spot some elite level athletes. A great dirt option without the trail running obstacles, the reservoir provides a mix of well beaten trails and dirt roads that wind around the water and the neighborhoods surrounding it. The area around the reservoir is mostly flat, with a few rolling hills. The reservoir is also home to a number of Boulder's big races, including the Boulder Triathlon Series and the Boulder Backroads Marathon and Half-Marathon. The views of the Flatirons from the run are outstanding, especially when the sun is rising and lighting up those things brighter than a fat kid's smile when he spots cake.
Our map below shows the main loop around the reservoir that we usually run and an extension that adds 3/4 of a mile. There are a number of other loops possible, we hope ours provide a good starting point for your own exploring. We always park at the parking lot before the gate to the reservoir, in order to avoid the day use fee.
Distance: 5.25 miles (main loop) 6.05 miles (extended loop)
Directions: From downtown Boulder (9th St. and Pearl St.), take 9th St. south to Canyon, take a left on Canyon and head to 28th St. Take a left on 28th and head up to Jay Road where you will take a right. Take a left on 51st St and continue north until you hit Reservoir Road. Park at the lot before the gate to the reservoir.
View Larger Map
Friday, January 9, 2009
Eastbank Esplanade - Portland, OR
No one likes interval training. People who tell you they "love intervals" are liars and you shouldn't be friends with them. I once went running with a girl that I liked and she told me that she loved to do intervals. I kicked her in the shin and continued my dry spell. The only good part of intervals is that they actually work. And they make beer taste better.
My solution for the monotonous punishment interval running entails is to try to do it in a great setting that provides a distraction. The East Side Esplanade is one of my favorite areas to do interval training; long, straight sections that are relatively flat, great views of Portland's skyline and easy access from downtown. The map below shows the section between the Hawthorne and Steel Bridges: a 2.5 mile loop. Because of its accessibility, the Esplanade is often full of bikers and runners. However, it rarely gets busy enough to cause much of a hassle. Watch out at night though; although lit, the Esplanade abuts some areas where Portland's street people camp out. Make sure you are prepared to kick some shins.
One of the great things about the Esplanade is that it provides a good warm up before heading into the West Hills or through the Pearl District; the Esplanade's accessibility makes it an ideal way to kick off a run through Portland. Many a night have been spent running from the Esplanade into the Pearl District. Intervals + pretty people spotting = less anger.
Distance: 2.75 mile loop between the Hawthorne and Steel Bridges
Directions: from downtown Portland (4th and Taylor St.) simply head west toward the river and the Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The path is paved all the way around, with a pedestrian bridge over the Steel Bridge and a designated bike/foot lane on the Hawthorne Bridge. To get onto the Hawthorne bridge; there are either stairs or ramps up to the bridge on both the north and south side of it.
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My solution for the monotonous punishment interval running entails is to try to do it in a great setting that provides a distraction. The East Side Esplanade is one of my favorite areas to do interval training; long, straight sections that are relatively flat, great views of Portland's skyline and easy access from downtown. The map below shows the section between the Hawthorne and Steel Bridges: a 2.5 mile loop. Because of its accessibility, the Esplanade is often full of bikers and runners. However, it rarely gets busy enough to cause much of a hassle. Watch out at night though; although lit, the Esplanade abuts some areas where Portland's street people camp out. Make sure you are prepared to kick some shins.
One of the great things about the Esplanade is that it provides a good warm up before heading into the West Hills or through the Pearl District; the Esplanade's accessibility makes it an ideal way to kick off a run through Portland. Many a night have been spent running from the Esplanade into the Pearl District. Intervals + pretty people spotting = less anger.
Distance: 2.75 mile loop between the Hawthorne and Steel Bridges
Directions: from downtown Portland (4th and Taylor St.) simply head west toward the river and the Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The path is paved all the way around, with a pedestrian bridge over the Steel Bridge and a designated bike/foot lane on the Hawthorne Bridge. To get onto the Hawthorne bridge; there are either stairs or ramps up to the bridge on both the north and south side of it.
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Thursday, November 27, 2008
Eagle Creek - Portland, OR
The first time I ran in the Gorge I was invited to go running on the Eagle Creek Trail by a very athletic, slightly unhinged, friend of ours who insisted on showing me what she considered one of the best trail runs she had ever done. I was interested, but slightly weary. The drive up to the trailhead would allow for the most one-on-one time I had ever had with this girl, and I was hesitant to be confined to the car, without quickly available means of escape. Thankfully I got past the fear that she was going to stab me, and was able to try out the run in all of its glory (this is after we almost died on the off ramp, as she apparently manifests her crazy in the way she takes icy corners). Heart rate blasting - we headed up the trail for what has become my favorite run in Oregon. For me, Eagle Creek provides the quintessential Northwest running experience, a place where I can retreat when I am not sure if I can handle the gray skies or the seemingly endless rain. The run is green, muddy, steep and utterly gorgeous.
The trail runs along the walls of the canyon that has been carved by the Eagle Creek, which runs from the foothills of Mt. Hood into the Columbia River. Numerous other creeks pour into the canyon, creating countless waterfalls that you pass as you wind your way up the canyon. The waterfalls make the trail popular with hikers, hence the first 2 miles or so are fairly crowded with day-trippers (the crowd seems to thin out after Punch Bowl Falls). I could go on and on about the wateralls as they are truly amazing, but part of the fun of this run is discovering what is around the next turn.
For the most part, the trail is narrow and rocky, and runs along the canyon walls resulting in incredibly steep drop offs through many parts of the trail. The actual ground is fairly jagged in a number of areas, forcing you to pay attention to footing. Additionally, there are parts where water sprays off the rocks above creating numerous puddles, mudslicks and wet areas that have to be navigated carefully to avoid slipping into the canyon below (how cool of a story would that be - "I was running Eagle Creek and fell into the abyss!"). But do not let this deter you; the run, while perhaps vertigo inducing in some sections, climbs gradually enough to be fairly easy on the legs. You can generally make it as easy or intense as you want.
The map below ends at my usual turn around point - just above Twisting Falls, about 7 miles from the trailhead. It's a good spot to take a break, stretch and let the dog play in the water.
Topographic map and elevation profile here.
Distance: 12+ miles round trip (I generally stop at Twisting/Eagle Creek Falls, but the run can continue past for another 8 miles).
Time: 2.5 hours
Directions: Take I-84 East out of Portland and take exit 41 (the exit is immediately after a tunnel - take it slow, this is where my friend almost killed us on the ice). After exiting, take a right at the stop sign and continue along a narrow road until it ends, there is usually parking available.
Our Suggestions: Lock your valuables in the car as apparently they have been having problems with break ins. There is a $5.00 day use fee that I have never paid but never been ticketed for. Bring food for during and after - it's a long one and a picnic lunch is a perfect ending. Time your trip so you head back to Portland during the sunset. You'll fall in love with the Northwest all over again.
View Larger Map
The trail runs along the walls of the canyon that has been carved by the Eagle Creek, which runs from the foothills of Mt. Hood into the Columbia River. Numerous other creeks pour into the canyon, creating countless waterfalls that you pass as you wind your way up the canyon. The waterfalls make the trail popular with hikers, hence the first 2 miles or so are fairly crowded with day-trippers (the crowd seems to thin out after Punch Bowl Falls). I could go on and on about the wateralls as they are truly amazing, but part of the fun of this run is discovering what is around the next turn.
For the most part, the trail is narrow and rocky, and runs along the canyon walls resulting in incredibly steep drop offs through many parts of the trail. The actual ground is fairly jagged in a number of areas, forcing you to pay attention to footing. Additionally, there are parts where water sprays off the rocks above creating numerous puddles, mudslicks and wet areas that have to be navigated carefully to avoid slipping into the canyon below (how cool of a story would that be - "I was running Eagle Creek and fell into the abyss!"). But do not let this deter you; the run, while perhaps vertigo inducing in some sections, climbs gradually enough to be fairly easy on the legs. You can generally make it as easy or intense as you want.
The map below ends at my usual turn around point - just above Twisting Falls, about 7 miles from the trailhead. It's a good spot to take a break, stretch and let the dog play in the water.
Topographic map and elevation profile here.
Distance: 12+ miles round trip (I generally stop at Twisting/Eagle Creek Falls, but the run can continue past for another 8 miles).
Time: 2.5 hours
Directions: Take I-84 East out of Portland and take exit 41 (the exit is immediately after a tunnel - take it slow, this is where my friend almost killed us on the ice). After exiting, take a right at the stop sign and continue along a narrow road until it ends, there is usually parking available.
Our Suggestions: Lock your valuables in the car as apparently they have been having problems with break ins. There is a $5.00 day use fee that I have never paid but never been ticketed for. Bring food for during and after - it's a long one and a picnic lunch is a perfect ending. Time your trip so you head back to Portland during the sunset. You'll fall in love with the Northwest all over again.
View Larger Map
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Waldo Canyon - Manitou Springs, CO
I recently made my second trip to Waldo Canyon 22 years after my first visit. I think a deep childhood trauma has prevented me from exploring it.
When I was 4, my dad decided to take me to his friends' wedding, which was in a meadow about 2 miles up the trail. Before the wedding attendees started out on the hike, they were handed balloons filled with helium that we were supposed to release when the ceremony was over (I know - big no no, but it was the 80's). We pulled into the parking lot, got our balloons, and started heading up the trail. On our first try we made it about a 1/2 mile into the hike before my stumpy legs and resulting short stature resulted in my balloon brushing up against a yucca plant and popping. My dad, good sport that he is, gave me his balloon and we kept going, until my height problem again resulted in a popped balloon. Seeking to avoid me throwing a fit, my dad turned us around, back to the parking lot where we resupplied ourselves. I believe we visited the parking lot two more times that day, in a Sisyphean effort to make it to the wedding with undamaged balloons in hand. By the end, my dad was carrying me, two balloons, water and a scowl. To this day whenever I mention Waldo Canyon my dad shakes his head, growls and mutters to himself; "Stupid hike took forever. Why did I have kids. I hate balloons. Where is my scotch." Since that day I have been hesitant to return to the spot that has caused so much grumbling over the years.
Surprisingly, Waldo Canyon does NOT take forever, and makes for a much better run than hike. The overall setup of the trail resembles a big lollipop. The first section is about 2 miles long, winding up the hillsides before winding back into the Canyon and running through a wide meadow (the wedding site!). This first section is pretty gradual, winding mostly uphill until the last 1/2 mile. About 100 yards past the meadow, the trail splits, forming a 3.5 mile loop (there is an obvious sign). To the left the trail winds up a narrow canyon, following a creek. To the right, the trail climbs steeply up a number of switchbacks, cresting numerous times onto ridges before dropping into the canyon with the creek. I have only gone counterclockwise, which starts with a series of steep switchbacks before leveling out as the trail runs along two ridges and then eventually starts winding downhill into the canyon. It looks like either way is equally difficult as both require steep climbs right at the beginning. Regardless, the views within the loop are amazing; canyon walls, Pikes Peak, Manitou. Great from any direction.
The trails is fairly heavily populated, but it seems like most people stop at the meadow and avoid the loop. The trail is dog friendly too. Waldo is my new favorite run in this part of Colorado, one that definitely makes it easy to come back for more.
Directions: From downtown Manitou, head West on Highway 24 for about 2 miles. The parking lot and trailhead is on the right. Watch for a sign on the right hand side of the Highway that indicates a trail is ahead.
When I was 4, my dad decided to take me to his friends' wedding, which was in a meadow about 2 miles up the trail. Before the wedding attendees started out on the hike, they were handed balloons filled with helium that we were supposed to release when the ceremony was over (I know - big no no, but it was the 80's). We pulled into the parking lot, got our balloons, and started heading up the trail. On our first try we made it about a 1/2 mile into the hike before my stumpy legs and resulting short stature resulted in my balloon brushing up against a yucca plant and popping. My dad, good sport that he is, gave me his balloon and we kept going, until my height problem again resulted in a popped balloon. Seeking to avoid me throwing a fit, my dad turned us around, back to the parking lot where we resupplied ourselves. I believe we visited the parking lot two more times that day, in a Sisyphean effort to make it to the wedding with undamaged balloons in hand. By the end, my dad was carrying me, two balloons, water and a scowl. To this day whenever I mention Waldo Canyon my dad shakes his head, growls and mutters to himself; "Stupid hike took forever. Why did I have kids. I hate balloons. Where is my scotch." Since that day I have been hesitant to return to the spot that has caused so much grumbling over the years.
Surprisingly, Waldo Canyon does NOT take forever, and makes for a much better run than hike. The overall setup of the trail resembles a big lollipop. The first section is about 2 miles long, winding up the hillsides before winding back into the Canyon and running through a wide meadow (the wedding site!). This first section is pretty gradual, winding mostly uphill until the last 1/2 mile. About 100 yards past the meadow, the trail splits, forming a 3.5 mile loop (there is an obvious sign). To the left the trail winds up a narrow canyon, following a creek. To the right, the trail climbs steeply up a number of switchbacks, cresting numerous times onto ridges before dropping into the canyon with the creek. I have only gone counterclockwise, which starts with a series of steep switchbacks before leveling out as the trail runs along two ridges and then eventually starts winding downhill into the canyon. It looks like either way is equally difficult as both require steep climbs right at the beginning. Regardless, the views within the loop are amazing; canyon walls, Pikes Peak, Manitou. Great from any direction.
The trails is fairly heavily populated, but it seems like most people stop at the meadow and avoid the loop. The trail is dog friendly too. Waldo is my new favorite run in this part of Colorado, one that definitely makes it easy to come back for more.
Directions: From downtown Manitou, head West on Highway 24 for about 2 miles. The parking lot and trailhead is on the right. Watch for a sign on the right hand side of the Highway that indicates a trail is ahead.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Incline to Barr Camp - Manitou Springs, CO
Due to my extended stay in Manitou I have been able to do a more extensive reconnaissance of the trails in the area. For the most part I have known about, or heard about, most of the trails around town, but with the advent of more time on my hands (translation: jobless) I have been able to explore more of the area. The Incline to Barr Camp run was the result of three things: 1) a desire to revisit Barr Camp after about a decade 2) an attempt to experience the Colorado fall and 3) a need to do some high altitude running to prepare for the Golden Leaf. I had the last reason on my mind the most when I started exploring the run, but that quickly gave way to enjoying the incredible scenery provided by the mountains and the aspen groves running through them. For some reason, when the run is gorgeous, like Eagle Creek or this one, it makes running for long periods of time so much easier. For this reason, I think I would be obese if I had to move to the Midwest.
I started the run by doing the Incline first. I wanted to do this to bypass the series of steep switchbacks that typify the beginning of Barr Trail and to get to 8600 feet or so as quickly as possible. From the top of the Incline, there is an access trail to the upper portion of Barr Trail. You can find it by walking straight, as if the Incline continued, until you reach a trail that angles up (there are some logs stacked next to the beginning of it). Do not confuse this trail with the one that angles slightly down, in the same general area. The downward trail dead ends into some impassable fencing. Once you are on the access trail, it is about a 1/2 mile to the intersection with Barr Trail.
From the intersection with the trail, the run heads up Barr Trail toward Barr Camp, gaining about 2,000 feet in elevation over 4 miles. The climbing is mostly gradual, winding through meadows and forest area until it reaches Barr Camp, located at 10, 200 feet. There are numerous vista points along the run that are home to some incredible views. Pikes Peak is almost always in front of you as you run, and the before mentioned aspens pocket the area. There are points where you actually run through aspen meadows, with the leaves forming a carpet on the trail. Pretty awesome.From Barr Camp I simply turned around and headed back down the trail, all the way to the bottom (no desire to explode my knees trying to do the Incline in reverse). The whole thing took me 2 to 2.5 hours. I would bring some food and water, as there are not any freshwater sources that are drinkable on the run. Barr Camp, when it is open, sells food if you want to bring cash instead.
Overall I would say that this is one of my favorite runs in the area. It is a bit long, so perhaps best to do it during the weekend. The trail was not too crowded, but that changes during the weekends. The
temperature at Barr Camp is usually about 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the town temp, so dress accordingly. Something else to thing about: Mountain lion attacks. I have an irrational fear of being mauled by a mountain lion whenever I run in this town. Although wouldn't it be awesome if a mountain lion tried to maul you and you killed it and then used its teeth to make a necklace that you wore to the bars to impress the ladies? That would be the ultimate.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Government Trail - Aspen, CO
I explored Government Trail on another one of those days where I decided it would be a good idea to ask Max for a good trail run to check out. He guided me toward the base of Buttermilk Ski Resort and an access road leading up to the Government Trail, which runs from west to east along both the Snowmass and Buttermilk resort mountains. The trail actually starts in Snowmass Village, and is used in the summer for running and mountain biking (it is basically a single track trail) and in the winter for cross-country skiing. To access the trailhead, you have to take an access road from the village up to the trail. It is best to ask around town (try the Ute Mountaineer or the Hub) for exaclty where the trail starts, as I have not been able to find anything online that provides a good guide.
For our run, Max and I started at the base of Buttermilk Mountain and ran up an access road about a mile before we connected with the trail (actually we hiked a lot of it as "run" to Max is somehow equivicated to "easy mountain bike ride," as in "it should be a good run, it is an easy mountain bike ride"). We then followed the trail east until it dumped us out near the Aspen Rec Center, near the base of Aspen Highlands. From there we hopped on the bike trail for a bit before the trail begins running through a long grass field, which again dumped us out onto a paved trail which we followed all the way into Aspen.
Overall, the trail is a net downhill, but runs at about an elevation of 9500 feet before it winds down into Aspen. The trail runs through some incredible scenery, but is a bit rocky so watch your footing.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Smuggler Road to Hunter Creek Loop - Aspen, CO
Every time I ask my friend Max, resident extraordinaire of Aspen, CO, where I should go for a run he manages to guide me toward something which usually begins with a mile long death march up a mountain. It never matters how I describe to him the run I want to go on. Saying something like "I want something with a bit of gradual climbing, but nothing too intense" is somehow translated in Max's head to "I want to run straight uphill, with an incredible amount of altitude gain, and perhaps the possibility of being mauled by a mountain lion." Hence, I now have experienced Smuggler Road, sans mauling.
Smugglers Mountain Road is on the northern part of the valley that houses Aspen, near the Hunter Creek condos, about 1 mile from downtown Aspen (map here). The road is dirt, and relatively steep, winding up about 800 feet before the cutoff for the Hunter Creek Loop. It is frequently used by hikers, runners and mountain bikers, but is wide enough to accommodate everybody. When I did it there were not too many people, but reports from some of the men folk in town indicate that the road is usually filled with attractive women denizens of Aspen.
After climbing up the road, there is a cut-off for the Hunter Creek Loop, take that until it winds down to a T in the trail, from there go right and then take a left at a bridge that crosses a creek (do not cross the bridge). You will follow the creek for a while, which should be on your right. Eventually the trail will dump you into a wider section which angles downhill and is a bit more rocky. You will come to another bridge. Cross it and take an immediate left (I missed it the first time, it is somewhat hard to see). Follow this trial down. Be careful, as you are basically running down a boulder field. When I did it I was right behind a guy that managed to trip and sandwich himself between two boulders. This trail will dump you off into the Hunter Creek Apartments area, which is about a half a mile to the west from the start of the run (map here). The entire run took me about 1.5 hours.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Mt. Tabor - Portland, OR
The area around southeast Portland is surrounded by isolated low lying hills, remnants of old cinder cone volcanoes. One of these, Mt. Tabor, is located in the Hawthorne neighborhood, in Southeast Portland. A neighbor of ours mentioned how great Tabor is as a venue for a quick run, advice I quickly disregarded as I thought of her as somewhat crazy. Lo and behold, Crazyface was right, Tabor is a great place for a quick run, ride, stair workout or interval training. Every time I am up there I am surprised by how big the park is: it holds a reservoir for the city, multiple bike and running paths, an ampitheatre, picnic areas and playgrounds. Simply put, there is a lot to Mt. Tabor, so I will focus on the features that I use the most.
For riding, Tabor is a quick climb, that can be lapped on the roads that run through the park. I get the sense that a lot of area bikers use Tabor as I do, a quick workout before or after work. Cars move through the park pretty slowly, so riding in there is pretty laid back. Starting in May and running through most of the summer, the park hosts bike races, the Mt. Tabor Series, which run every Wednesday afternoon.
Tabor is a perfect venue for running. There are a couple of trails that wind around the park, along with a main road that runs all the way to the top of the park, where it forms a loop about 1/3 of a mile long - great for interval training. The views from the top are fantastic; both downtown Portland and Mt. Hood are prominent scenes. I have spent a lot of late afternoons running up there, and there is always a big gathering of people from the neighborhood to watch the sunset. Very romantic. Even only Seneca would watch it with me instead of dive bombing the bushes in search of birds and sticks.
Finally, my favorite feature of the park is the stairs that run from the base of the northeast end of the park to the summit. They are longer than the Med School Stairs, and make for a great side workout.From Downtown Portland: take Madison east to the Hawthorne Bridge, and continue on Hawthorne until it dead ends at SE 60th Ave. Take a left and then your first right into the park.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Stanley Park - Vancouver, Canada
By far, Vancouver is my favorite city in the Pacific Northwest. Sitting on the English Bay, with the Coastal Range framing its views, the city feels very west coast with a dose of a New York City vibe. Every time I am there I am struck by the low-key vibe of the city. It is really a great place to get lost in and explore.
I've been to the city a couple of times, but have not really explored the recreating options at all. Everyone raves about Stanley Park but I have never taken the time to check it out. Recently, we were in Vancouver for the Radiohead show at the University of British Columbia (an awesome campus and a great show) and managed to score a great hotel in downtown Vancouver, close to the park. For some reason I woke up really early, hungover, and decided that the best way to exorcise my body of the booze and late night McDonald's was a run. After the first awful 20 minutes, I found myself in Stanley Park. There are very few runs I have done that I would describe as jaw-dropping. My run through Stanley Park definitely met that description (and not because I might have still been drunk).The park has a paved loop that runs along the entire perimeter of the park, following along the seawall that protects the park from the waters of the bay. The path runs 5.5 miles from start to finish, remaining mostly flat the entire way around. The most striking part of the run was when I reached the north part of the peninsula, where the island turned from forest to immense granite cliffs. At this point I was sober enough to actually start enjoying the truly incredible view.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Green Lake - Seattle, WA
Seattle is one of those cities that the more I explore it, the more I love it. The proximity of the city to so much water definitely reduces the abject depression that I enter into whenever it clouds over with the typical northwest weather. Not to say that I could live there, but it is definitely a fun place to visit for a few days. Combine that with its proximity to the mountains, and the city becomes almost as cool as Portland or Vancouver. But as with most cities in the northwest, there are just some places where even liters of coffee won't fix the effects of the rain.
Usually when I'm in Seattle I run, mostly because the roads don't seem super conducive to cycling, and I haven't really found anyone to show me rides around town. The running, however, is pretty fantastic and very easily accessible. The first time I visited the city I was surprised by how hilly it is, which holds true for most of the close in neighborhoods surrounding the city. I did the Seattle Marathon in 2006 and was impressed with the views and the variety of terrain, and apart from the psyche crushing hills they make you run up starting on mile 19, the route was a great introduction to Seattle running.
My new favorite area is the Ballard part of town, in the Northwest quadrant of the city. I stay with friends there so I have been able to explore part of the area on a regular basis. There are a couple of good restaurants, and a great coffee shop that are worth checking out. There are also a lot of great markets, and the word is a Trader Joe's is going to open up in the area soon.
Green Lake is located between I-5 and the Phinney Ridge, just east of Ballard. I believe it is considered one of the more upscale neighborhoods in that area (ie; safer to run in). The centerpiece is the lake, which has a multi-purpose path running its entire circumference. The path is concrete and dirt, and is basically flat. There are generally a lot of people that use the trail throughout the day, so get ready to dodge dogs and toddlers. The best part of the run is that the neighborhood is where a lot of University of Washington students live, so there is usually a plethora of attractive women running or sunbathing, which help to augment the already great views. I would suggest adding Phinney Ridge into the run, which is basically Phinney Road. From the top, on a rare clear day, you can see both the Olympic Range and the Cascade Range. Not really on par with nubile co-eds, but certainly worth a look. Click on the "view larger map" link below for directions (I am loving Google Maps lately).
View Larger Map
Usually when I'm in Seattle I run, mostly because the roads don't seem super conducive to cycling, and I haven't really found anyone to show me rides around town. The running, however, is pretty fantastic and very easily accessible. The first time I visited the city I was surprised by how hilly it is, which holds true for most of the close in neighborhoods surrounding the city. I did the Seattle Marathon in 2006 and was impressed with the views and the variety of terrain, and apart from the psyche crushing hills they make you run up starting on mile 19, the route was a great introduction to Seattle running.
My new favorite area is the Ballard part of town, in the Northwest quadrant of the city. I stay with friends there so I have been able to explore part of the area on a regular basis. There are a couple of good restaurants, and a great coffee shop that are worth checking out. There are also a lot of great markets, and the word is a Trader Joe's is going to open up in the area soon.
Green Lake is located between I-5 and the Phinney Ridge, just east of Ballard. I believe it is considered one of the more upscale neighborhoods in that area (ie; safer to run in). The centerpiece is the lake, which has a multi-purpose path running its entire circumference. The path is concrete and dirt, and is basically flat. There are generally a lot of people that use the trail throughout the day, so get ready to dodge dogs and toddlers. The best part of the run is that the neighborhood is where a lot of University of Washington students live, so there is usually a plethora of attractive women running or sunbathing, which help to augment the already great views. I would suggest adding Phinney Ridge into the run, which is basically Phinney Road. From the top, on a rare clear day, you can see both the Olympic Range and the Cascade Range. Not really on par with nubile co-eds, but certainly worth a look. Click on the "view larger map" link below for directions (I am loving Google Maps lately).
View Larger Map
Friday, August 29, 2008
Atwater Stairs - Milwaukee, WI
I was in Wisconsin for a long weekend, and managed to spend most of it drinking and eating. I had never been to Wisconsin, so it was fun getting to explore a part of the country I usually associate with cheese and the Packers. After visiting, I still associate it with cheese and the Packers. But we did manage to find the best bloody mary I've ever had, which was done in true Wisconsin style; with smoked meat and mozzarella string cheese garnish. Yes, you read that right. It was amazing, definitely one of the highlights of my foray into America's dairy land. Wicked Hop is the place to visit if drinking spiked tomato juice with meat and cheese is on your agenda.
As is usually the case, I didn't work out much while visiting. For me, one of the hardest parts about traveling is staying motivated to work out. Usually travelings means meals on the road and random sleeping situations, so keeping to a routine is usually last on my mind. Typically I stick to just running around whatever area I'm staying in, but in some cases I manage to come across a feature that makes for a great workout. One of these recently was the Atwater Stairs, on the shore of Lake Michigan in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The stairs are composed of about 8 sections of 15 or so stairs, running from the beach up to a park that overlooks the water. In addition to the stairs, there is a paved path that also runs down to the beach. I ended up doing a quick run in the neighborhood followed by some stairs laps, which worked me over pretty well. The scenery was great, and the neighborhood provided a nice setting for a run. My time is Milwaukee was spent mostly eating and drinking, but the stairs made for a great diversion from my travel routine of being a lazy bastard.
Atwater Park is about 4 miles north from downtown Milwaukee, on the western shore of Lake Michigan. Click on the map below for directions.
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Friday, August 15, 2008
Paul Intemann Memorial Trail - Manitou Springs, CO
Running along the southern rim of the valley in which Manitou Springs resides is the Paul Intemann Memorial trail, a 5+ mile trail built by a completely volunteer force that winds from the western edge of town into the eastern edges of Colorado Springs. The trail is named after city planner Paul Intemann who was killed in a car accident in 1986. Over the years the trail has grown and been extended, and exists as a great memorial to Paul's work in making Manitou Springs a wonderful place to call home.
The trail winds the entire extent of Manitou Springs, making it a great first arrival destination for anyone looking to get a bird's eye view of the town. From the trail, both the Incline and Red Mountain are easily accessible. In general, the trail is great for running, with only a view steep parts. For the most part the trail is dirt, with some paved sections which function more as connection points to the dirt sections. The most easily accessible trail head is the Iron Springs Trailhead, which can be reached by taking Manitou Ave west to Ruxton Ave. Follow that up the canyon until the Iron Springs gazebo.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Red Mountain - Manitou Springs, CO
From downtown Manitou, one of the dominant mountains that overlooks town is Red Mountain, so named for the red sands and granite that give the mountain its unique tinge. In town, the mountain is known for two things; the traditional launching site for the town's 4th of July fireworks, and Emma Crawford's coffin, which managed to wrench its way out of the red sands in which it was buried and travel down the mountain in a mudslide until it reached downtown. This little event inspired Manitou's famous Emma Crawford Race.
I had hiked Red Mountain when I was younger but was never too curious about it until my brother showed me a new trail that winds to the top of it. The Red Mountain Trail is a spur of the Intemann Trail, and winds about 2 miles to the summit of the mountain, where a large concrete platform awaits. Running, it took about 16 minutes from the beginning of the trail to the summit. For the most part the trail is fairly steep, with a lot of loose gravel at the beginning. But as you climb, the trail becomes more firm and levels out a bit.
By itself, the trail is a pretty short workout. But worked in with a longer run along the Intemann trail, it makes for a great out and back leg burner. My plan the next time I head back to town is to combine Red Mountain with the Incline for a long climbing day.
From downtown Manitou Springs, take Manitou Avenue west and turn left at Ruxton. Park near the Iron Spring gazebo and head up the dirt road (Spring Street) and take your first right. The trailhead starts at the chained off road, and the spur for Red Mountain is about a mile into the trail (heading east).
Friday, August 8, 2008
Aspen, CO
We just got back from visiting a friend in Aspen, the epitome of Colorado ski towns. It is literally everything I picture when I think of a ski town; a great mountain that is within walking distance of almost any place in town, incredible snow, great apres-ski opportunities, and of course, insanely expensive pricing on everything. My usual gauge for determining the expense level of a town is the cost of a double-shot Americano. In Portland, or even Boulder, the average price for a 160z Americano runs about $2.20. In Aspen, I usually pay closer to $3.00. So, I generally assume everything in town will run about 36% more than I'm used to paying.
Like other ski towns, many of the people that live there are divided into the locals, the migrant worker force and the seasonal residents. The migrant worker force consists mostly of incredibly wealthy European kids that have come
to Aspen to run a lift line and drink as much as they can. The seasonal residents are people like Kevin Costner and Goldie Hawn. On our visit we walked past Lance Armstrong, who was in town training for the Leadville 100. His training group included the friend we were visiting, leading to a few somewhat surreal "how was Lance feeling today" type of conversations. This is why Aspen is my paradigm of a proper ski town.Apart from the glamour aspect, the town is a great location for some of the most scenic riding and running that I've done, and Aspen Mountain has a couple of great trails that are good for hiking or running. Although not as expansive as Boulder, the riding is incredibly scenic and just as easily accessible. The Hub is a great shop in town that can provide some knowledge about some great local rides.
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