Ultimate Guide to Spring Trail Running

Spring is the perfect time to head out on your favorite trail. As soon as the snow starts to melt in Wisconsin, I am ready to explore new trails. Once the temperatures start to warm up and you are ready to head out, here are some tips to get you started on some amazing spring trail running.

Let the Trails Dry

It may be hard to sit back and wait after the snow melts, but the wait will be worth it. Once the snow melts give it some time to let the trails dry a bit. Also at least in Wisconsin, the trails will be covered with frost at night and then melt in the morning as the sun comes up. By letting the trails dry for a couple weeks, you will keep the single tracks single and prevent surrounding plant erosion.

Wildlife

This is the time of year where animals start to be out and about. In Wisconsin, we only have a couple poisonous snakes. Luckily for me there are none in my area of the state. I am terrified of snakes, but I have become a bit better with them as I spend more time on the trails. I have been know to yell very loudly, whenever I bump into one along the trail. Most of them are harmless. They do enjoy laying in the sun across the trail, always in the perfect spots to make you go from being a mid pack runner to suddenly become a track star.

One thing I would suggest is to find out what types of animals are local to your area. In northern Wisconsin, we have black bears which are typically afraid of you unless you happen to find mama bear with her cubs. If you find what animals are local to the area, you will be able to determine what you need to watch for when you see them out. Here are few links for what to do if you encounter bears, snakes or cougars.

What to Wear for Spring Trail Running

Deciding what to wear for spring trail running can be tricky especially in Wisconsin. Seventy degrees one day snowing the next. I always check the weather and plan according to the feels like temperature. Spring is when you can test out those new shorts, but be prepared it might be too cold to try them out just yet. It has been a cool spring thus far in Wisconsin. I like to dress in layers. I will often start in a light jacket or arm sleeves and take them off once I am hot. If you are unsure of what to wear at what temperature check out my Ultimate Guide to Cold Weather Running.

Trail Maintenance

This is the perfect time to get out and help out with trail maintenance. Spring is when most trail maintenance happens. This is an excellent way to give back, those gorgeous trails don’t just get there. Many trails have Earth Day events if you are looking to get involved in picking up trash or helping to get trails in shape for spring. The Ice Age Trail relies on volunteers for building new segments or maintaining the existing trails.

Enjoy the Scenery

Let’s get real the best part of spring trail running is all about the view. Finally all the snow is gone and the brown starts to disappear. The trees being to bud and leaves begin to grow. The forest floor comes to life and everything is green again. Get ready for the flowers. The trails are gorgeous this time of year everything is blooming.