Hidden Gem

The most beautiful place on the trails!

     Ever want a break from the hard pavement? How about the sounds of traffic? Or the heat of the sun in summer time, which will be upon us in no time? If so, there is a place, right in our own backyard, where all this can happen and then some. Not many people know about this place, not many people utilize this place for this purpose, but there are some devoted people that keep this place up for anyone to use at anytime. We are talking about the 12+ miles of single track trails located on the west side of The University of South Alabama campus on University Boulevard. 

Signs are posted on trees to identify
sub-trails.

       We started using these trails about four months ago in preparation for our first trail race earlier this month. Unfortunately there are not a lot of single track trails in the Mobile area of this length that are as well maintained and easily accessible. The trails are predominately single track, meaning there is only room for one person, requiring you to run single file. It is somewhat technical with minimal elevation changes and no water crossings. The trails are divided into sections, making it easy for runners to decide how far they want to go on any given day, which makes it good for all levels of runners. There are mountain bikers who frequent the trails, so you do have to give way for them sometime by simply stepping off to the side of trail. Running trails gives your legs a nice break from hitting the pavement, gets you out of traffic and into the sounds of nature. The entire trail is shaded by tall trees which hides the sun and breaks the wind on windy days. You do, however, have to pay attention to where you are stepping or you might eat the ground, which you'll find is okay. After all you cannot be considered a runner or for that matter a trail runner without the scars to prove it. It can especially get interesting for runners bringing up the rear, for the roots seem to jump more on

those in the back so give yourself a little room.

As for us getting back on the trails....

Our shoes finally dried out, so we knocked the rest of the loose dirt off, and ran a solid 10 miles on the trails last Thursday and ~12 on Saturday. This was the first time being on the dirt since the Ms50. It felt great to get off the pavement and on the trails. Thursday was a beautiful afternoon...cool, not a cloud in the sky.  

Nature Calls: Shall I say more?

Saturday on the other hand was overcast and rainy, yet a peacefulness resonated in the trails. Something about rain, woods, and an uncanny stillness to add to the grandeur of trail running. Although it is peaceful back there, it can come to an abrupt halt when approached by a pack of barking dogs. Needless to say, speed work or tree climbing is always an option.  Spring is definitely around the corner. Take advantage of the weather people; see you on the trails. 





Tree Bikini: Guaranteed good time

 

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