The Best Trail Running Destinations to Add to Your 2022 Itinerary
Those devoted to trail running constantly search for that
perfect stretch of land. The path can be found in an isolated canyon or weave
through a major urban center.
The right trail can take them across mountains or through
gorgeous forests and meadows. It is out there just waiting for you to give it a
try. Here the Andrew
Balser Blogspot discusses some of the best trail running destinations in
the United States to try this year.
Kalalau Trail
The northwest side of Kauai, Hawaii is home to this
fantastic 11- mile trail that takes runners across several beyond-lush valleys
before ending at the breathtaking Kalalau Beach. One of the world's
highest-rated beaches, it has warm white sands surrounded by lush jungle and
painted cliffs.
You get a lot of bang for your trail running buck on the Kalalau,
from waterfalls and guava trees to sea cliffs and even ancient ruins. There are
even 2- and 4-mile versions of the run that still offer an unparalleled run in
paradise. The trails are perfectly set between
the cliffs of the Na Pali Coast and the Pacific Ocean.
Mesa Trail
There’s a reason why Colorado is considered a mecca for
outdoor sports enthusiasts. With more than 200 miles of trails, Boulder, just
outside of Denver, should be your first stop.
Start with the Mesa Trail, a 7-mile track (13.4-mile round
trip) that connects different trails in the shadow of the town’s Flatirons
mountains and foothills and boasts several peaks over 8,00 feet, including Bear
Peak and Green Mountain.
It’s a run that is truly epic, connecting Chautauqua Park
and Eldorado Canyon and accessible during all four seasons.
Poison Spider Mesa Loop Trail
Despite its somewhat off-putting name, this 13.5-mile-long
trail in Moab, Utah offers truly unforgettable desert scenery.
Variety is key here since the trail features flat mesas and
rocky switchbacks, as well as great views of the Colorado River, the La Sal
Mountains, and Moab’s trademark sandstone. You may have to compete for space
with ATVs and mountain bikers, but this one is well worth it.
For even more of a challenge combine the trail with the Gold
Bar Rim and Golen Spike — and dont miss the Little Arch for a full view of Moab
in all of its glory.
Andrew Molera State Park
California’s Big Sur is the setting for this beachside trail
run that offers an 8.7-mile loop trek combining multiple trails — the
Bluffs Trail, Ridge Trail, and Panorama Trail.
Along with beach views, you get to race by crashing waves and redwood groves eventually hitting a moderate 1,200 feet. Don’t miss the Point Sur lighthouse on your journey as well as panoramic views of the federally protected Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
The more adventurous should head to LaGrange, Wisconsin
since this will be a massive 1,200-mile route once it's completed.
Along the way, you’ll take in numerous features carved by
ancient glaciers, as well as the Kettle Moraine State Forest and numerous
marshes, prairies, and ponds carved by ice floes. Start just outside of
Madison, where you will revel in a run through the Sugar River State Trail and
numerous shade forests and wetlands.
Alafia River State Park
Brandon, Florida, is home to this park with offers some of
the state’s most diverse natural features, weaving around hills and swamps on trails
perfect for both beginner and intermediate trail runners.
There are nearly a dozen creek crossings along the trails,
replete with swamp tupelo, water hickories, and red maples. And if you're into
biking as well, the park boasts a hefty 17 bike trails as well.