I’m on a mission to run every trail in our area before the Huff 50K on December 28th. Why? Because it’s fun!! Plus, I’d like to hope that one of these trails will give me a tiny bit of preparedness for the event. Okay, probably not but at least I can say that I was out there, running real trails, and making an effort to prepare for possibly the most difficult thing that I’ve attempted so far. I also know from a previous trail adventure involving the Grand Canyon and a group of pretty ladies that one of the most important things you can do beforehand is to prepare the feet/ankles and break in the shoes before show time. Let it suffice to say that I think my shoes are officially broken in, if being dirty counts. Now can someone just recommend a pair of insulated tights that will cover these LONG legs??
So last Saturday, I met up with a few runners from the Kankakee River Running Club to run some backwoods trails at the Kankakee River State Park. I say “backwoods” cuz well, you won’t find them unless you are lost following someone who knows where to look. After running out of the parking lot, across a grassy area and then ducking under a gate, we found the semblance of trails. Very rough trails.
However, most of the time we were running thru area like this:
We saw lots of cool things and the Kankakee runners were kind enough to stop and let me take a few billion photos. I am a bridge lover and LOVE to find random bridges in the middle of nowhere. I also like stairs. A lot. Who loves stairs while they run? Me!!
We also passed the river several times and even found a teepee! See Mike S, lounging on the frozen ground in the teepee. And thanks to Jodie & Amie for stopping for a photo!
And my favorite part of the day, besides hanging out with new runners, was definitely when we lost the trail and had to climb thru a fence to continue the run. So.Much.Fun.
I had an amazing day out at the Kankakee River State Park. I loved the backwoods section as much as the beautiful paved trail that runs directly next to river. More info on the easy to follow paved trail HERE.
I encourage you to get out in the “off season” and make your next run an adventure. No need to pound the same trail, every single day, change things up. Have fun. Leave the watch at home. Enjoy the moment!
** Run the Trails ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **
TooTallFritz 
Try Athleta for winter tights.
I am also discovering the wonders of trail running, and just signed up for my first ever trail “race” – a 6-hour 5-mile AMLAP event hosted by the trail running club I just joined (new runners to meet for me too, guess great minds DO think alike 🙂 )
Climbing through fences is half the adventure! Trying all kinds of new trails can only help you in the end.
TTF…you have awesome stories and experience. Dirt or mud on shoes does not qualify “break-in” or readiness for upcoming race.. Miles do and getting that right combo of flexibility before race day. But…trails…races? Ya just run them…have to make lots of adjustments…many times fast-walking if it big hills like out West…or even at little-ole Tecumseh Trail. Anyways…I know you got the feel…what to do..don’t need my help. But…you did pose a question so I think you go with CWX compression tights on trail run in winter turf. I think they even have some “pizzaz” styles these days that you might like. Just a thought…otherwise…run on as you doing both physically and in spirit!.
The CW-X tights are too short for my long legs, Frogger! I even tried the men’s. :(. I’m super sad cuz I purchased the insulator ones and was sure that they would keep me warm!
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