I wish I could say I’ve been trail running my whole life. Truth is, it’s only been three months. But in that short time, I’ve gone from curious about it to hooked for life.

For years, trail running sat on my mental “someday” list. It always felt like something other people did — people who lived near mountains and had trailheads five minutes away. I was living in places without easy trail access, so it stayed a dream.

Then we moved out West. Suddenly, trails weren’t a weekend road trip away — they were basically our backyard. Living in our van for the past six weeks has only amplified that. Trails have become part of our way of life, not just a workout.

Starting in Salt Lake City

My trail running journey kicked off in Salt Lake City. I had no idea where to start, so I joined a local women’s trail running club. Full disclosure: I still haven’t actually gone in person (cue the introvert guilt). But I follow their weekly posts — not just for inspiration, but to see which trails they’re hitting on repeat. It’s been the perfect guide for me as a beginner.

Now that I’m more confident, I can see myself joining one of their group runs soon. There’s something motivating about the idea of keeping pace with other runners who’ve been at it longer. And I know the strength and endurance I’ve built this summer will give me the confidence to run with someone other than Ryan.

Walking Is Not Quitting

One of my biggest mental shifts has been accepting that walking is okay. I’ve used the run/walk method during marathons and throughout my decade of running, but there was always this voice in the back of my mind saying I should be running nonstop.

Trail running has completely changed that. Now, I’ve fully embraced that there are times when walking is not just allowed — it’s the smart move. Those steep climbs? They’re not slick blacktop — they’re uneven, rocky, root-laced leg burners. Sometimes walking is the fastest way to keep moving.

Adopting a run/walk rhythm on the trails has made me faster overall, and it’s taken away the pressure to “never stop running.”

The Joy of Exploration

Trail running has also given me something road running never could: a sense of exploration. I’ll usually have a rough route planned out, but once I’m on the trail, it’s about discovery. Every twist in the path could reveal a viewpoint, a waterfall, or — like this week — Mount Hood peeking through the evergreens in all its glory.

When I’m trail running, I’m so focused on my footing, my surroundings, and my breathing that I completely lose track of time. The miles feel different — less about numbers, more about moments.

When Hiking Isn’t Quite Enough

We started this trip thinking we’d be hiking a ton. And we have, but surprisingly, biking and trail running have stolen the show. Even when I’m on a hike, I often catch myself thinking, I wish I could run this back. Hiking pants are not meant for that, so now I wear trail running gear more often than not, just in case the urge strikes.

Ryan’s usually game for the runs, too, and lets me set the pace. It’s become our version of a date — only with more sweat and dirt.

In just three months, trail running has given me stronger legs, a calmer mind, and a bigger appetite for adventure. It’s not just exercise; it’s the best excuse to get outside and see the world one winding path at a time.