How to Trail Run in Winter

Winter can be a dark and gloomy time. Still, that's no reason to shelve the trail-running shoes.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Running Clothes
• Trail Running Shorts
• Trail Running Socks
• Trail-running Shoes
• Running Foods (gels And Bars)
• Snowshoes

1. Hit the trail prepared for bad weather. Bring appropriate clothing (including trail-running shoes, warm gloves and a hat) and wear layers (polypropylene as a base beneath a nylon or waterproof shell) so that you can adjust your level of insulation according to the temperature and how you feel.

2. Choose your trails carefully - thanks to snowfall, springtime favorites may not be suitable for midwinter running. If you're wondering where the snow will be worst, remember this: Trails on north-facing slopes tend to stay snowy and icy for most of the winter, while snow on flat and south-facing slopes tends to melt off quickly.

3. Stay hydrated even though it's cold. It's always important to drink plenty of water during long trail runs.

4. Avoid running in the late afternoon, when the daylight hours are limited and you risk being caught out in the dark.

5. Keep your eyes peeled for ice patches. Trails that see a lot of traffic while the snow is on the ground can form a slick layer of ice as the temperature drops.

6. Beware of objects such as rocks and logs hidden beneath the snow, and watch out for covered stream crossings. Run in control and at an easy pace to avoid getting wet or spraining (or worse, breaking) an ankle.

7. Take special care on steep hills. Snow can make an otherwise easy ascent or descent very slippery.

8. Find a running partner to help motivate you to get out there on even the gloomiest of days.

Tips & Warnings

• Deep snow is no reason to skip your run. Instead, strap on a pair of lightweight snowshoes and take to the hills.
• Trail running is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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on 11/22/2005 I avoid south-facing slopes and the associated mud and water. Stay on the north-facing slopes full of ice and snow. Buy a pair of short gaiters to keep the powder snow out of your shoes. For traction, get some small sheet metal screws and screw about 10 of them into the deepest part of the soles of your shoes. The traction is amazing. No more slipping and sliding on glare ice.