Fall in Love with Fall Trail Running

It’s not time to hit the treadmill yet! Fall is my favorite time of year to run. Fall trail running is even better. Time to find a new trail and head out. There are a few things to consider when hitting the trails in fall.

Trail Running Tips

The Ice Age Trail is a perfect system of trails to run, with many different sections to choose from. The Ice Age Trail is perfect for trail running. Each section has varied terrain and scenery.

One of my go to trails is Ryan Park. It is a park just outside of Kewaunee, Wisconsin. It has plenty of hills, tree roots and single track to keep you busy.

The park is full of hardwoods that create a nice canopy to run under. It’s almost magical and makes me feel like a kid running through the woods there. It is also easy to social distance, as there is never a crowd. The park is well marked making it easy to find your way along the trails.

Hunting Season

Fall is the start different various hunting seasons in Wisconsin. Spend time researching your trail prior to heading out. Some trails like Ryan Park do not allow hunting in the park. Some sections of the Ice Age Trail are closed, as they run through private land. When I was running out at Sensiba State Wildlife Area, another local trail I ran past several duck hunters near the trail.

Make yourself easily visible by wearing brightly colored clothing. Better yet bring a friend, no one would miss two friends laughing while running through the woods. Looking for other Reasons Why Running is Better with Friends? Check out my recent post.

Watch Where Your Going

With lot of leaves on the ground, it can be slippery. As the leaves pile up, tree roots and rocks become obscured. Pick up you feet and take your time. Enjoy the fall foliage.

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The fall leaves can completely cover the trail making it easy to lose your way. Check out a trail map prior to heading out. Download a trail app like Guthook Guides. This app uses GPS to locate your place on the trail making it hard to get lost.

Pay attention to the time of day. The sun set earlier and earlier, as fall goes on. As the days get shorter, running on a wooded trail it gets dark quick. Watch the time and plan to be back at the trail head prior to sun set.

What to Wear for Fall Trail Running

I love fall running. One of the best parts is you are no longer running in the heat and humidity. Fall temperatures in Wisconsin can range from hot to freezing temps. Check the temperature before you go.

Some days it may start out cold, but warm up as your run goes on. I would suggest to wear layers on long runs. Once it warms up you can always remove a jacket or a vest. Unsure of what to wear while running at different temperatures, check out my post on Ultimate Guide to Cold Weather Running.

Hydration

Even though it’s cooler out, and your sweating less keep hydrated. Fall temperatures can get cold in Wisconsin. Make a plan for your water, as it could freeze. I like Nathan Fire and Ice flasks. They fit right in my vest pockets and never freeze.

Scenery

Fall is a real show stopper when it comes to trail running. Colors abound. My last trail run at Ryan Park, I spent time just enjoying the scenery. I walked up many of the hills taking photos and just breathing in the crisp fall air. The canopy above with yellow, orange and red leaves falling down made for an epic run! I am always looking for a new trail to try. What are some of your favorite trails?