Running in the time of social distancing

Hello,

I hope this update finds you safe and healthy at home!

Like many others, I will be limiting my exposure by switching most of my running volume to an indoor treadmill, located in my basement.

I'll still occasionally escape to the outdoors, however. I've been seeking out more isolated trails and running only by myself for the last couple months already.

My goal race for this year (Golden Gate Dirty 30) was cancelled, as were many other trail ultramarathons. Since I don't have any scheduled training plan for a dedicated goal, I'm in the unique spot of being able to run whatever distance, whenever, just because I feel like it. That's actually a pretty nice feeling.

Here's a few photos from some of the places I've been running.

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On March 18, Alex took me down to Cañon City and I ran 10 miles on Phantom Canyon Road.

It was somewhat eerie and very quiet. The skies were cloudy and the atmosphere was almost post-apocalyptic.

Phantom Canyon Road historic map.

The canyon is characterized by steep walls and craggy, dramatic rocks.

The sun going down on an eerie world as I descended the road.  

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On March 29, I ran on the eastern Rock Island Trail. The segment approaching Marksheffel Rd was especially quiet and isolated. I returned home well after dark, making good use of my headlamp. I accrued 14 miles that day.

Quiet long stretches of trail near Marksheffel Rd.

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On March 31, we went to the Spruce Meadows Open Space. Although it was Sunday and other local trailheads were packed, Spruce Meadows was empty. I was fortunate and saw no one (except my husband) during my 9 mile loop.

Alex and I at the sunny open space.

Spruce Meadows map.

Headed north through the fields towards Larkspur.

Cute wooden bench near the trailhead.

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On April 5, I had a lovely sunset run at Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space. The standard loop around is 5 miles; I added an extra mile by going out and back near the start, giving me a short but beautiful 6 miles total.

Dawson Butte Ranch map.

Sunset to the west over the Rampart Range.

Dawson Butte at twilight. 

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Finally, yesterday, April 11, we traveled to Columbine Open Space, and I added up 9 miles on the lovely trails there. I saw only one other trail user, a cyclist who was wearing a full face mask. I, too, used my buff to cover my face.

An unexpected trail hazard.

The view to the east.

Wide trail through soft meadows.

The view south at sunset, with Pikes Peak in the distant background.

Columbine Open Space map.

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Even though my outdoor runs will be limited, I'm carefully planning days where I'll be able to experience new adventures in more isolated areas.

I look forward to this summer as a time to seek out new and different experiences.

And, I'll crank that treadmill up on a steep incline and pretend I'm on the Incline itself.