Trail or Rolling Hill Run 2:00 Zones 1-2

Everything Zen

Wow, that was freaking awesome! A buddy recommended going counter-clockwise for the better views, and he was right! However, I didn’t have much time to enjoy the view.

The trails weren’t technical, but they were completely covered in thick ice. This made for most of my attention about three to five feet in front of me. Occasionally, having the opportunity to look up and ahead of the trail. About 80% of the trail was rugged ice made from the footprints of other hikers. Frozen, this made for good traction. 10% of it was slushy and muddy, and the rest was dry dirt. It had a great canopy cover too. This would be a great trail in the summer, even on a bike.

When I started, my thoughts were focused on remaining calm, slow breathing, and relaxing. I was in no rush, but not without haste. No matter the pace, my goal was to keep my feet moving quickly.

I brought two pair of shoes, but decided on the Brooks Cascadia. They were perfect for the terrain, but I could have used some better socks. I’ll be sure to throw a pair of Injini’s in the bag for next time. I also just found out about the bigger toe box in Altra’s; I want to try these. Do you have any thoughts on trail shoes?

Aside from what’s published, I didn’t know what to expect. I just wanted to assess the trail and try to groove with it. The first five miles felt good, but I started to feel a few hot spots on the outsides of both little toes. Other than the blister sensation creeping in quick, I was motivated and having fun. After a few miles though, the hot spots discomfort faded and blended into the normal ache of a long run. It was uncomfortable, it just didn’t matter anymore.

The first lap for music I was bumping the new Drake and 21 Savage album. Definitely tempo motivating; and quite raunchy. The second half I listened to Linkin Park’s last album, One More Light. It’s always entertaining. During the final 40 minutes I removed my headphones and enjoyed the sounds of the trail. Hearing the whirling of the wind, trees, and birds while I was mesmerized by the hums of my footsteps on ice go crunch, crunch, crunch, crunch… It was a peaceful and pleasant run, on a beautiful day that started an amazing weekend. Looking forward to more of these!