Confession time.
I don’t particularly enjoy running on pavement. It always seems so hot and pavement-y. I do run on some pavement when my runs are longer, and I know I’m going to have to get over it since I’ll be running 13 miles of pavement in October but for now, at least on my shorter runs, I will enjoy the solitude of my current running route: The RiverWalk trail.
Just as the name implies, the RiverWalk meanders along the Kettle River. It is a 5K loop from my house, down the trail, and back. Depending on my mood I will either start from home or simply re-run part of the trail until I hit my distance.
I spend a lot of time on the RiverWalk. It’s not only great for running but it’s the perfect spot for a 2-year-old to burn off some energy.
This is why we don’t run together. I get stuck pushing an empty stroller and he goes about his exploration duties.
Veering off track to check something out. Again.
No cars, hardly any other foot traffic and a soft surface to run on – what could be better?
Perhaps the best thing about the RiverWalk is its proximity to the Kettle River. The breeze it offers up is amazing on those days when the sun is burning just a little too hot for my liking. It also makes it easier for the dog to join me on my runs because fresh water is always at his disposal. Plus, I can stash his leash at the start of the trail and enjoy a run with nothing in my hands.
I’m always interested to find out where people run and how they determine their routes. My brother is also a runner and was training for a marathon when we were home in April. He never planned to run an actual race, he just wanted to be able to run the 26 miles. I remember asking him where he ran and if he had some pre-measured loops for his longer runs.
The answer?
Nope.
He simply drives to a long stretch of road, runs until his iPod tells him he has gone half-way, then turns around and runs back to his car.
Brilliant.
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