Finding the Perfect Running Trail

Choosing a Good Trail

Finding a good trail to run can be a challenge, but the effort pays off when you find a trail you love. 

Photo courtesy of Jeff Helglestad

Photo courtesy of Jeff Helglestad

Starting your search.

While a simple google search of “trails near me” will show you many trails, it doesn’t necessarily cater to running trails. Trail Run Project is a great resource for scoping out new running trails, but any website that lets you filter by difficulty, distance, trail type, elevation gain, etc. is a good option. 

Deciding on a trail.

First, make sure the trails match your training needs for difficulty and distance. After you’ve narrowed down the options, it’s time to take a closer look. While the difficulty of trails is often rated, the labels can be broad and don’t provide a ton of insight. Reviews are one of the most helpful resources when picking out a trail. Most trail searching websites include reviews about the trails as well as photos and trails maps. Descriptions in reviews tend to provide more details regarding the terrain. 

Know before you go. 

When you’re going to a new trail, it is important to look at a trail map ahead of time as they aren’t always well marked. It is also helpful to research trail conditions ahead of time. If the trail you are looking at is in a park, there is likely a website providing information about when the trail opens and closes as well as any seasonal closures. Recent reviews can also provide insight into the current trail conditions such as ice, downed trees, or mud. It is a good idea to read up on trail etiquette ahead of time—if the trail is a loop, are runners supposed to go clockwise or counter-clockwise?

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Favorites from the Ornery Mule community:

Emma Carlin: Green Loop—6.4 miles

Southern Kettle Moraine Forest, WI

If you’re looking for a trail with high elevation gain and good technical terrain, the Emma Carlin green loop is a great option for you. “The trail is single [track] bike trails but getting [there] early and starting in the dark or [at] first light you can often avoid the crowds,” recommended Jeff Helgestad. For more distance, there are many connecting trails as well. Helgestad suggests running the trail in winter or early spring for the best scenery.

Crooked Lake Trail—5 miles

Pinckney State Park, Pinckney, MI

For a moderate trail with some technical terrain, the Crooked Lake Trail is a great option. “Park at Pickerel Lake for a tucked away trailhead and good lake views,” Lindsey Hayter said. The trail is part of the Potawatomi Trail and can easily be extended.

Island Lake: Blue Loop—9.1 miles

Island Lake Recreation Area, Brighton, MI

The Blue Loop at Island Lake is great route for a smooth trail run. “The trails are the perfect balance between easygoing and challenging, offering something for runners of all levels to enjoy,” Patrick Fegan said. Be sure to stay alert for mountain bikers on this trail.

Whether you’re just starting trail running or looking for a new favorite there’s plenty of trails out there to be explored. 

 
Maddelynn HornBA Psychology (‘20), MA Digital Marketing and Data Analysis (‘22)

Maddelynn Horn

BA Psychology (‘20), MA Digital Marketing and Data Analysis (‘22)

Loretta Tobolske-Horn