Trail running is fun, but where do you find new trail routes if you live in a city and are surrounded by tall buildings and tarmacked roads? Good question.
This article outlines wonderful tips that will help you discover new running routes wherever you are.
- Install Trail Running Apps
Apps like All Trails, Strava, Map my Run, are great running route finders.
I, for example use Strava. It is not only great at recording your running activity, but also at helping you find new and safe trails to run, bike, hike and camp.
When you log into your Strava app, turn your location on, tap on maps, then routes. The app will immediately suggest popular routes from your location used by other runners.
It also tells you the type of trail (easy/hard), length, and estimated time to cover it.
2. Ask Other Runners
Asking fellow runners during meetups or online is a great way to find new trail routes.
Your friends and family can also be of significant help, especially if they enjoy the outdoors.
3. Take Purposeful Walks
If you live in a town or city, take walks off the beaten track to identify if they could make good running trails.
Call it a purposeful walk, and if possible (as a safety precaution), take a friend with you.
Related: 15 Best Ways to Ensure Safety When Trail Running Alone
4. Ask Google
What is this phrase everyone says these days? Google has all the answers? Right.
Go to your Google app and search for running trails near (put your location). In a second, you will have a pool of information on all runnable routes in your area.
5. Google Earth
Google Earth is another excellent tool for finding new places to run.
Install the Google Earth app and, like Google, search for trail running routes near you or anywhere you wish to run.
6. Join Local Running Groups
Because of the security in numbers, running groups run anywhere and everywhere. They enjoy discovering new running routes.
Therefore, even if you like running alone, joining a running group and running together could be the answer to finding new running trails.
7. Take Part in Local Running Races
Participating in local running events and races will expose you to the possibility of discovering good running routes.
It will also help you meet other runners who can share knowledge on new and interesting places to run.
Related: Annual Trail Running Races in Kenya Supporting a Good Cause
8. Follow Active Trail Running Groups Online
Running groups constantly post about their runs and routes on social media. Following them will keep you updated on every new route they discover.
Conclusion
When you find a new route on the apps, before using it, research about it and read other people reviews to be safe and prepared.
Also, if possible go with a friend prior the run to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
Now I’d like to hear from you.
How else do you find safe and runnable routes near you?
Please share in the comment section below.
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