After moving out West a few months ago, I was determined to finally try trail running. Back in Texas, trails were few and far between, so this felt like the perfect chance to dive in. I joined a local women’s trail running club (highly recommend!) and got some great beginner-friendly route tips.
Here’s five things I’ve learned since hitting the trails—and why I’m totally hooked:
- Trail runners are non-negotiable. The added grip is a game changer. I rotate between two pairs of Hoka Challenger 7s since multiple pairs of shoes is a must for adventure racing. I stick with what works, and I love the roomy toebox for when my feet start to swell mid-run. Trust me: your ankles (and your dignity) will thank you.
- Walk the uphills, run the rest. Coming from the flat lands of Texas, I wasn’t exactly conditioned for elevation. I’m not out there trying to win anything—I just want to enjoy the trail and get better. My strategy: walk the uphills, jog the flats and downhills. It keeps things manageable, but I still challenge myself on smaller climbs when I can. And I’ve seen a huge improvement in my endurance just in the past month.
- The right vest makes a big difference. I started out with a regular hydration pack. It was a mistake. The bounce and bulk made everything feel off. After some searching, I scored a USWE 2L Trail Running Vest on Facebook Marketplace—and I’ll never go back. It fits like a dream, doesn’t bounce, and carries everything: two 500ml ultraflasks, snacks, keys, pepper spray, and a sunshirt stash spot. Basically my home away from home.
- Trail running is a great way to explore new places. Since starting in Utah and continuing on our PNW road trip, I’ve realized trail running is one of my favorite ways to get the lay of the land. It’s like speed-hiking with better cardio. Some trails aren’t quite “hike-worthy,” but they’re perfect for running—and exploring them this way makes every mile feel like an adventure.
- It’s a whole new kind of freedom. Just me, the dirt under my shoes, and a quiet trail surrounded by trees. No traffic, no noise, no paved roads. It’s a reset button I didn’t know I needed. Now, if I’ve got a choice between a trail or a road, I’ll take the trail every time.
Trail running has officially earned its place in my outdoor toolkit. It’s sweaty, it’s hard, and it’s the kind of fun that sneaks up on you after your legs stop hurting.
Got any favorite trails or gear recommendations? Drop ‘em in the comments.