June 4, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page
click for map page

This Sunday, June 4, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the trail head to Lookout Point in Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North, Salem, NY) when we run the Yellow-OS-IS loop. This course winds through the park and includes the new IS trail which connects the OS trail to Spruce Lake. If you want to get an early start, arrive at 7:00 a.m. and for those insomniacs out there, bring a headlamp and start at 6:00 a.m. or even 5:00 a.m. If you are looking to get some distance in, you can take Hunt Lane to the Realander loop and back for an added 7 miles of (mostly) dirt roads. See the map here ››

This Saturday, June 3, at 7:00 a.m., meet at Ward Pound Ridge Meadow lot and run the Meadow to Overlook 8 mile route. If you want to start at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Michigan Road Trailhead and join the runners as they pass by. Bring your own maps, though, I don’t know if I’ll make it.

NIGHT RUN

On Friday, June 9, at 8:00 p.m., join us at lean-to 5 (Michigan Road) for a night run. Course to be determined but will be around 6 miles. Bring a headlamp and some of your favorite “recovery” food and drink and we’ll hang out by the fire afterwards.

Hope to see you out there this weekend.
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Enjoy the photo from this past Sunday’s run and see if you can spot Barry Fagan.
LEE_May1807

January 29, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page
click for map page

This Sunday, January 29, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the trail head to Lookout Point in Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North, Salem, NY) when we run the Yellow-OS-IS loop. This course winds through the park and includes the new IS trail which connects the OS trail to Spruce Lake. If you want to get an early start, arrive at 7:00 a.m. and for those insomniacs out there, bring a headlamp and start at 6:00 a.m. If you are looking to get some distance in, take Hunt Lane to the Realander loop and back for an added 7 miles of (mostly) dirt roads. See the map here ››

Next week we’ll be back in the Rez for the sixth annual Looper Bowl.

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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Last Sunday’s big group at the Trailside Museum.

LEE_0916

December 11, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page
click for map page

On Sunday, December 11, at 8:00 a.m., meet at Mountain Lakes Park at the trailhead to Lookout Point when we run a new course that includes the adjacent Hearst-Mead and Halmi Preserves. These two parks contain a pair of loops and lot of hills in a short distance. Normally, these are on the runs as added miles but I’ve put these on early to give everyone a chance to see these preserves. More miles can be added by adding the OS loop to Yellow after. Anyone interested in starting early can arrive at 7:00 a.m. for more fun. See the map here ››

Click for map page
Click for map page

On Saturday, December 10, at 8:00 a.m., meet at Reis Park in Somers when we run the Reis Park/Angle Fly 6 Mile Loop. This set of trails is well-marked and contains a variety of terrain that you’re going to love. To get to Reis Park, take Route 35 to Route 100 North. At approximately 1/4 mile, turn left onto Route 139. and follow for 2 miles to Reis Park on your right at Primrose Drive. IMPORTANT NOTE: if the entrance is closed (or if no one is there), continue North on 139 to Sunderland Lane and park at Van Tassel park. If Reis park is open, then park near the tennis courts—the trail head is behind the western edge of the courts. See the map page ››

Hope to see you out there this weekend but dress warmly—it’s getting cold out there.

Lee Willett

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Great group of runners last Sunday. Glad you all enjoyed the hills on the Rock Trail.

lee_0495

September 25, Sarah Bishop Bushwhack

Sunday, September 25, 9:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, New York 10560), when we race the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. All that training and those course checks come down to this—a 10k trail race featuring a challenging course that includes the highest peak in Westchester—Bailey Mountain—and beautiful views of Lookout Point and Hemlock Lake. The weather this weekend should be beautiful and the conditions on Sunday, ideal. Registration closes at midnight on Thursday night but as long as the race isn’t sold out, we will have same-day registration. Race day registration will be $40 and we ask that you have exact change. Also aim to be in the park before 8:45. The road will be blocked at 9:00 for the start of the race so if you’re not there by then, well, you get the picture.

And don’t forget to register for the upcoming fall races:
Run The Farm, Sunday, October 23
Raven Rocks Run, Sunday, November 13

Hope to see you out there this weekend.
Lee Willett

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Great to see so many Leatherman Harriers at Where the Pavement Ends. Congratulations to all of the winners and to everyone who came out to have a good time.
lee_9211

September 11, Mountain Lakes Park

MLP_SBB_2014
map at SarahBishop.org

This Sunday, September 11, at 8:00 a.m, meet at Mountain Lakes Park in North Salem (201 Hawley Road) when we do a course check of the 2016 Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. This is the only course check this year so if you want to check out the course with the group, this is your only chance. Meet at the pool parking lot (gravel road opposite the Hemlock Lake Beach) where race day parking is and get ready to run this 10K-ish loop with a few twists and turns. Those that want to start early can arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a warm-up.
See the map ››   Register for the Race ››

Saturday, September 10, 8:00 a.m. For those who want to run on Saturday, make a course check of the Pavement Ends course in preparation for the September 18 race. Meet at 10 Shore Drive, Ridgefield, CT at 7:45 for an 8:00 start and stick with the 4-mile course or take a longer, scenic route to Bennett’s Pond (see the course here).

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

And don’t forget to register for the upcoming fall races:
Where the Pavement Ends, Sunday, September 18
Sarah Bishop Bushwhack, Sunday, September 25. Shirts will be ordered on September 13. No late orders accepted.
Run The Farm, Sunday, October 23
Raven Rocks Run, Sunday, November 13

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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Glad everyone enjoyed last week’s mystery run. I hope your injuries heal before the upcoming races.LEE_9120

July 10, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page

click for map page

This Sunday, July 10, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the trailhead to Lookout Point in Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North, Salem, NY) when we run the 6 mile(ish) perimeter loop. Start up the path to Lookout Point and follow the course over Bailey Mountain and the OS trail. Add an optional 1-mile loop at Hunt Lane and/or 2 miles for the Herst-Mead and Halmi Preserves for up to 9 fun miles. If you’re planning on running the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack this fall, this is a great chance to check out some of the trails. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive at 7:00 a.m. to get a few miles in and those looking to run longer can add some miles after. See the map here ››

On Saturday, July 9, at 8:00 a.m., it looks like there’s a good chance of rain so I suggest meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow lot and run Eleanor’s Escape. This is a great course that includes a mix of wide trails, single track, long level paths, and technical uphills. Plenty of options for distance too but bring your own maps, I’m not going to make this one.

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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Great day for a run last week no matter how far you went.

LEE_8037

March 13, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page
click for map page

This Sunday, March 13, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the trailhead to Lookout Point in Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North, Salem, NY) when we run the 6 mile(ish) perimeter loop. Start up the path to Lookout Point and follow the course over Bailey Mountain and the OS trail. Add an optional 1-mile loop at Hunt Lane and/or 2 miles for the Herst-Mead and Halmi Preserves for up to 9 fun miles. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive at 7:00 a.m. to get a few miles in and those looking to run longer can add some miles after. See the map here ››

And don’t forget to set your clocks ahead this weekend or you might miss the run!

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And thanks everyone for coming out last week. Might have been the last of the winter runs for a while.

12829089_10205276307178248_791318908883751149_o

January 10, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page

This Sunday, January 10, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the trail head to Lookout Point in Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North, Salem, NY) when we run the 10K-ish Sarah Bishop Course Backwards. That is, we’ll start at the trail head to lookout point, run up to Hemlock campsite and follow the Sarah Bishop course in the opposite direction. That means heading down the stairs near the end of the run so save a little energy for that. It looks like we’ll have some rain on Sunday so if you don’t know already, yes, we run in the rain. If you want to get an early start, arrive at 7:00 a.m. See the map here ››

On Saturday, January 9, at 7:30 a.m., meet at the Teatown Lake Reservation, 1600 Spring Valley Rd #1, Ossining, NY 10562, and run an out-and-back Teatown Kitchawan Trail. The full course is 13.2 miles round trip but you can turn back at any point you’d like for a shorter run. Kevin Rader will be on hand but while the course is easy to follow, you should bring your own map just in case.
Download the PDF the trail map here ›› | Learn more here ››

And don’t forget about our event on January 16—The Trail Mix Awards Ceremony and Post-Holiday Party.

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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November 8, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page

This Sunday, November 8, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the trailhead to Lookout Point in Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North, Salem, NY) when we run the 5.5 mile perimeter loop. Start up the path to Lookout Point and follow the course over Bailey Mountain and the OS trail. Add an optional 1-mile loop at Hunt Lane and/or 1.5 miles for the Herst-Mead and Halmi Preserves for up to 8 fun miles. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive at 7:00 a.m. to get a few miles in. See the map here ››

Next week we’ll be back at the Reservation for the Raven Rocks Run—the last Trail Mix Series race of the season. I look forward to seeing you this weekend.

Register for the race here: Raven Rocks Run, Sunday, November 15

Lee Willett

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September 13, Mountain Lakes Park

MLP_SBB_2014
map at SarahBishop.org

This Sunday, September 13, at 8:00 a.m, meet at Mountain Lakes Park in North Salem (201 Hawley Road) when we do a course check of the 2015 Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. This is the final course check this year so if you want to check out the course with the group, this is your last chance chance. Meet at the pool parking lot (gravel road opposite the Hemlock Lake Beach) where race day parking is and get ready to run this 10K-ish loop with a few twists and turns. Those that want to start early can arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a warm-up. See the map ››

Saturday, September 12, 8:00 a.m. For those who want to run on Saturday, Keith Realander will be leading a group of runners on the Pavement Ends course in preparation for the September 20 race. Meet at 10 Shore Drive, Ridgefield, CT at 7:45 for an 8:00 start and stick with the 4-mile course or take a longer, scenic route to Bennett’s Pond (see the course here).

Also on Saturday at 8:00 a.m.—Katonah 5K Road and Trail Race. Race day registration and festivities will begin at 7:00 a.m. on Parkway and Woodsbridge ($40-5K, $35- Kid’s 1M).

And if those aren’t enough choices for Saturday at 8:00 a.m., you can meet at Ward Pound Ridge and run the Meadow to Overlook 6.3 mile loop—always a favorite.

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

And don’t forget to register for the upcoming fall races:
Where the Pavement Ends, Sunday, September 20
Sarah Bishop Bushwhack, Sunday, September 27
Run The Farm, Sunday, October 25

Lee Willett

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August 30, Mountain Lakes Park

MLP_SBB_2014
map at SarahBishop.org

This Sunday, August 30, at 8:00 a.m, meet at Mountain Lakes Park in North Salem (201 Hawley Road) when we do a course check of the 2015 Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. This is the first of two course checks this year so if you want to check out the course with the group, this is a great chance. Meet at the pool parking lot where race day parking is and get ready to run this 10K-ish loop with a few twists and turns. Those that want to start early can arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a warm-up. See the map ››

Saturday, August 29, 8:00 a.m. For those who want to run on Saturday, I suggest revisiting last Sunday’s run at Bennett’s Pond (580 Bennett’s Farm Road, Ridgefield, CT). Follow the full course or explore some of the trails we didn’t follow including some of the trails from The Pavement Ends race (see the course here).

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

And don’t forget to register for the upcoming fall races:
Where the Pavement Ends, Sunday, September 20
Sarah Bishop Bushwhack, Sunday, September 27
Run The Farm, Sunday, October 25

Lee Willett

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August 2, Trailside Museum

Click for map page

This Sunday, August 2, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Trailside Museum when we run the Trailside, Raven, to Tower loop. You have choices of a 6 mile loop, a 9 mile loop, and anything in between depending on what you want to run. And anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive at 7:00 a.m. See the map here ››

Anyone looking to run on Saturday, August 1, at 8:00 a.m. can meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow lot and run the Fire Tower Summit Run. See the map here ››

NIGHT RUN

Join us on Friday, July 31, at 8:00 p.m. at Hemlock North Campsite (NEW LOCATION) in Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem) when we run our first night run in the park—the Hemlock Loop. Arrive at 8:00 p.m., drive into the park to Hemlock Drive and turn left (where the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack starts). Park at the beach area or at the Hemlock dining hall area if necessary and walk to Hemlock North campsite. Bring a headlamp or flashlight, some snacks, something to rehydrate afterwards, and probably a chair to sit back and relax in. This is a 5.25 mile loop which can be shortened to 2.5 miles if you want. The main course will be marked so you should be able to find your way. See the map here ››

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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July 26, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page

This Sunday, July 26, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the trailhead to Lookout Point in Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North, Salem, NY) when we run the 5.5 mile perimeter loop. Start up the path to Lookout Point and follow the course over Bailey Mountain and the OS trail. Add an optional 1-mile loop at Hunt Lane to make it even more of a challenge. Make sure you take the Orange trail path on your right before you enter Camp Morty and the Yurt Village. Camp is in session so avoid that area. If you’re going to join us for Friday’s night run, the course will be the same with the exception of starting at Larch. And And anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive at 7:00 a.m. I won’t be there this Sunday so BRING YOUR OWN MAPS please. See the map here ››

I know a lot of people are running Escarpment this weekend but on Saturday, July 25, at 8:00 a.m., meet at Butler Sanctuary and run the double loop 5-mile course. See the map here ››

And Join us on Friday, July 31, at 8:00 p.m. at Larch Campsite in Mountain Lakes Park when we run our first night run in the park. Look for complete instructions on the site. See the map here ››

Good luck to all of the racers this weekend. We’ll see you next week.

Lee Willett

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May 17, Options, Options, Options

This Sunday, May 17, you have some great options to choose from.

Option 1: A Mild Sprain 4.25 mile Trail Race, Yonkers, NY

This Sunday, May 17 at 9:30 a.m., join team Leatherman Harriers and run A Mild Sprain 4.25 trail race in Sprain Ridge Park, Yonkers. This is the second race in the Trail Mix series and race director David Vogel always makes sure this is a fun and challenging event. Race-day registration may be available but check the website for more information. If you want to car-pool for the race, meet at Lewisboro Town Park UPPER lot at 8:00 a.m. and at the Bedford Hills Train Station northern lot (Railroad Ave. side) at 8:20.

Option 2: The Running Goddess 5k

This Sunday, May 17, at 8:00 a.m., come out to Lasdon Park for the third annual Running Goddess 5k. This multi-terrain course combines wooded trails with open fields, a little crushed stone and some pavement to keep you on your toes. Learn more at TheRunningGoddess.com.

Option 3: Lewisboro Town Park Northern Loop
WPR_6mi_TownParkNorth
click for map page

Not planning on doing the races? Meet at Lewisboro Town Park Upper lot on Sunday, May 17, at 8:00 a.m. to run the  Town Park Northern Loop course. Bring your own maps, I’ll be at A Mild Sprain.

Saturday, May 16, 8:30 a.m.
For anyone looking for a Saturday run, meet at Mianus River Gorge at 8:30 a.m. and run the 5 mile out-and-back course. While one of our shorter courses, it’s a beautiful run through an old-growth forest.

Lee Willett

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May 10, Mountain Lakes Park

MLP_15K_v2
click for map page

This Sunday, May 10, at 8:00 a.m, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, NY) at the trailhead to lookout point when we run all or parts of a new version of the Mountain Lakes 10k/15k. The full course includes trails within Mountain Lakes Park and recently marked ones in adjacent preserves. Options include the 6-mile loop (solid orange line) or adding the Hunt Lane loop, Hearst-Mead Preserve, Halmi Preserve, and Sturgess Park for the full 15k experience. See the map page here.

Those who have commitments on Sunday can show up on Sunday at 7:00 a.m., bring your own maps, and run the full course early. If you want to catch the group at 8:00, start on the same course but return via the Blue trail when you reach mile 2. That should be a good 4-mile warmup.

Thinking about running A Mild Sprain next Sunday and want to check out the course in advance? Here’s your chance. Meet at Sprain Ridge Park on Saturday, May 9, at 8:00 a.m. for a course check. Those wishing to carpool can meet at Lewisboro Town Park at 7:15 and at the Bedford Hills Train Station northern lot (Railroad Ave. side) at 7:30.

Lee Willett

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January 25, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page
click for map page

This Sunday, January 25, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the trailhead to Lookout Point at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem) when we run a new course—The MLP Perimeter Loop. I’ve run much of the course lately and while there are areas of ice, most of that can be avoided by running at the edges of the path. We may have some snow on Saturday, though, so it’s hard to say what conditions will be like Sunday morning. There are options of adding a little more distance by including the Hunt Lane loop and the Spruce Lake trail. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive by 7:15 and get a few miles in before the run but bring your own maps, I’m going long on Saturday. I’ll post updates at community.sundayruns.org.
See the map page ››

Saturday, January 24, at 8:00 a.m. Anyone looking to do some long slow distance this weekend—up to 20 miles—can meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking lot at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday. No specific course at this time so print a map so you have options.

Next week we’ll be back at the Meadow Parking Lot when we run the fourth annual Looper Bowl! Loop course. Winter weather. What could be better?

Lee Willett

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December 7, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page
click for map page

This Sunday, December 7, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the trailhead to Lookout Point at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem) when we run a new course—The Yellow/OS Loop. This course will take us on some trails we’ve neglected for a while and includes a longer stretch of the beautiful OS trail. There are options of adding a little more distance by including the Hunt Lane loop and the Spruce Lake trail. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive by 7:15 and get a few miles in before the run. (Just remember to take it easy at the holiday party on Saturday. ‘Nuf said.) See the map page ››

sundayrunspartySUNDAY RUNS HOLIDAY PARTY

You won’t want to miss our annual holiday party on Saturday, December 6, at 6:00 p.m. Check your emails or RSVP here and then tell us what you’ll bring here.

Hope to see you all this weekend.

Lee Willett

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September 28, Sarah Bishop Bushwhack

Sarah Bishop Race Map
map on SarahBishop.org

Sunday, September 28, 8:30 a.m. (1.5 mile Scramble), 9:15 a.m. (10K Bushwhack)
This Sunday, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, New York 10560), when we race the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. All that training and those course checks come down to this—a 10k trail race featuring a challenging course that includes the highest peak in Westchester—Bailey Mountain—and beautiful views of Lookout Point and Hemlock Lake. The weather this weekend should be beautiful and the conditions on Sunday, ideal. Registration closes at midnight on Thursday night but we’ll hold a few places open if you want register on-site. Race day registration will be $45 and we ask that you have exact change. Also aim to be in the park by 8:30. The road will be blocked at 9:00 for the start of the race so if you’re not there by then, well, you get the picture.

Next week we’ll be back at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in the Meadow parking lot. I’m working on options for a run of various distances from 6 miles to 22 miles so you’ll have plenty of options for different distances. More on that next week.

Hope to see you out there for this first annual Sarah Bishop Bushwhack.

Lee Willett

August 31, Mountain Lakes Park

Click for map page

This Sunday, August 31 at 8:00 a.m., meet at Mountain Lakes Park, at the pool parking lot near Hemlock Lake, when we run the Mountain Lakes 10K. The course is a good preview of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack but finishes differently. If you want to run the full 15k, follow the course as shown on the map. If you would like to keep it to a 10K, leave off the Hunt Lane loop and the Hearst-Mead and Halmi preserves. Feel free to take the beautiful Spruce Lake trail and the red trail back to the parking lot to complete your run. The course will not be flagged in advance so bring a map if you’re unfamiliar with the park.

Saturday, August 30 at 8:00 a.m.
If you’re looking for a run this Saturday, I suggest meeting at Westmoreland Sanctuary and running the perimeter loop. If you’re up for more, cross the street and add some additional miles in Butler. Two great preserves to start your long weekend.

And don’t forget to register for the new Trail Mix Series—four great events starting September 21. Hope to see you this weekend.

Lee Willett

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August 17, Meadow Lot

Click for map page
Click for map page

This Sunday, August 17 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow parking lot when we run the Meadow to Overlook loop. The six-mile loop will take you to the Trailside Museum, past the wigwam to Michigan Road and then return via Shoolhouse Road. The climb to the Overlook at mile four is tough but the view is well worth it. For those looking for a longer run, follow the dotted line to Kimberly Bridge and up Blue for a total of 8 miles (I know that puts two of the steepest climbs on the same run but I’m game if you are).

Anyone interested in a run on Saturday, August 16 at 8:30 a.m., meet at Mianus River Gorge on the Bedford/Greenwich border for this 4.5 mile out-and-back trail run. The preserve opens at 8:30 so if you get there early, be patient. See the map here ››

I’m looking for suggestions for next week’s run. Reservation? Mountain Lakes Park? Butler/Westmoreland? Or something different? Email me with suggestions. Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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August 10, Trailside Museum

Click for map page
Click for map page

This Sunday, August 10 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Trailside Museum for the Trailside, Raven to Tower 6 or 9 Mile loop. We’ll climb Fox Hill, go over the Magic Stairs before heading into the southern portion of the park and returning via Fire Tower Hill. If you’re up for a longer run, follow the additional dotted lines for a 9-mile course that will take you on some of the less-traveled paths in the northern portion of the park. Either way you do it, there are some hills in this course that are sure to get your attention so enjoy. Download a PDF here ››

Anyone interested in a run on Saturday, August 9 at 8:00 a.m., meet at a new location—the Leon Levy Preserve on Route 123 near Route 35 in South Salem (24 Smith Ridge Rd, South Salem, NY). This is a relatively new preserve created by the Lewisboro Land Trust and the parking lot was just created early this year. While small (a loop is 2.5 miles) the changing terrain really keeps you on your toes and varies from carriage trails to single-track. I’ve been able to create a 5.25 mile spaghetti-like loop using almost all of the trails but feel free to get lost if you’d prefer. Let me know if you’re interested in doing this and I’ll join you. See the map here ››

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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August 3, Mountain Lakes Park

MLP_6mi_loop
Click for map page

This Sunday, August 3 at 8:00 a.m., meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem) to run a new 6.2 mile loop that is a preview of some of the trails for the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. Park in the pool parking lot and start on the shore of Hemlock Lake heading to Lookout Point and run the course as shown on the map. We’ll go over Bailey Mountain and take the OS trail before returning to the Hemlock campsite. Those wanting a longer run can regroup and go out for some added mileage. See the map here ››

Anyone interested in a run on Saturday, August 2 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Trailside Museum and test out next Sunday’s run—Trailside, Raven to Tower 6 Mile loop. It’s been a while since we climbed our old friends the Magic Stairs and that’s just the first of two sizable climbs on this run. Download the map here. Enjoy.

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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June 22, Mountain Lakes 15K

MLP_15K
click for map page
This Sunday, June 22 at 8:00 a.m, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, NY) Pool Parking Lot (where you parked for the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack) when we run a new 15K course in honor of the Summer solstice. The course will be marked and includes some familiar trails within Mountain Lakes Park and some new ones in adjacent preserves. If you’re not up for the full distance, bypass the Hunt Lane loop, Hearst-Mead and Halmi Preserves for a more manageable 10K. We’ll drop water at the midpoint of the run and at the finish. See the map page here.

For those who want to run Saturday, June 21 at 8:00 a.m., I suggest meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Lot and run the Meadow, Museum, Fire Tower, Michigan loop—six miles of awesome (but save something for the Mountain Lakes 15K the next day, okay).

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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June 15, Zofnass Family Preserve

zofnass_preserve
click for map page

This Sunday, June 15 at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Zofnass Family Preserve on Upper Shad Road in Pound Ridge (see Google Map) when we run this excellent preserve with a network of trails noted for its crags and rock outcrops. Meet at the main entrance and we’ll follow a perimeter loop making all right turns except for exiting the park (yeah, you’ll probably want to bring a map). We’ll make a 6-mile loop counter-clockwise around the preserve this time including the orange, western loop. See the map page here.

For those who want to run Saturday, June 14 at 8:00 a.m., I suggest meet at Mountain Lakes Park at the white trailhead to lookout point and run the Outer OS loop. If you’re going to run either the 15k or 10k variant with us next week, you might want to get familiar with those trails by taking the right fork on Blue and going over Bailey Mountain before following Blue/Yellow to Hunt Lane.

Upcoming:
Wednesday, June 18: Summer Solstice Run 14k, Minnewaska State Park, Gardiner NY
Sunday, June 22: Mountain Lakes 15k. An extended Sunday Run for the summer solstice. Details to come.

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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May 11, Mountain Lakes Park

click for map page
click for map page

This Sunday, May 11 at 8:00 a.m., meet at Mountain Lakes Park, at the trail head of the white trail to Lookout Point, when we run the Outer OS loop. It’s been a while since we’ve run this as a group but it’s a great course full of rocky slopes and single-track forest trails. The map shows the loop to Hunt Lane and another around Spruce Lake, both of which are optional if you want to shorten the distance. Registration for the Second Annual Sarah Bishop Bushwhack is now open so this is a great chance to check out some of the trails for the race.

Saturday, May 10, 8:00 a.m.
Course check for A Mild Sprain trail race. Meet at Sprain Ridge Park and be ready to run at 8:00 a.m. sharp. Race director David Vogel will lead a check of the course so anyone who wants to can get to see the course before race day which is next Sunday, May 18. Registration for the race is still open and costs $40 (which includes some great swag) so you should—you know—register. If you want to car-pool for the course check, meet at Lewisboro Town Park lower lot at 7:25 a.m. and at the park-and-ride off exit 4 on route 684 at 7:35.

Hope to see you this Mother’s Day weekend.

Lee Willett

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February 16, Reservoir Road, Katonah

click to enlarge
click to enlarge

With our usual trails in such poor shape, we’re going to switch things up this week. On Sunday, February 16 at 8:00 a.m., meet on Reservoir Road in Katonah (behind the Katonah Art Museum, See Google Map) and run a 6-mile out-and-back course to Maple Ave, Jay Street to Upper Hook Road. Turn around is at 121 for a total of about 6 miles. With luck the roads will be plowed and, while technically not a trail, it should be a nicer run than on the trails this week.

Hope to see you on Sunday.

Lee Willett

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January 19, Mountain Lakes Park

MLP_OuterOS
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This Sunday, January 19 at 8:00 a.m, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, NY) when we try out some new trails that the staff at Mountain Lakes has recently cut in when we run the Outer OS loop. Mark Vincent has found an extension of the OS trail which opens up areas of the park that most of you have never run before. We’ll also pass through the Yurt Village, around Spruce Lake (conditions permitting) and up the Red trail which will be new for most of you. Meet at the trailhead to Lookout Point if the main gate is open.

Next week we’ll meet at a new location when Tony Godino shows us the Zofnass Family Preserve.

Hope to see you out there this Sunday.

Lee Willett

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December 15, Mountain Lakes Park

MLP_OuterOS
Click for map page

This Sunday, December 15 at 8:00 a.m, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, NY) when we try out some new trails on what I’m calling the Outer OS loop. Mark Vincent has found an extention of the OS trail in the park which opens up areas of the park that we’ve never run before. We’ll also pass through the Yurt Village, around Spruce lake and up the Red trail which will be new for most of you. Meet at the trailhead to Lookout Point and if the snow doesn’t melt by then, be ready for a wintery run.

zofnass_preserve
Click for map page

Saturday, December 14, at 10:00 a.m. For those who are interested in a Saturday run, Tony Godino and Dave Cope will be running the trails of the Westchester Wilderness/Zofnass Family Preserve on the Pound Ridge/Greenwich border on Saturday. Meet at the main entrance on Upper Shad Road a quarter mile from Long Ridge Road (see Google map).

Next week we’ll be back at he Reservation—just not sure where.

Hope to see you out there this weekend.

Lee Willett

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September 29, Sarah Bishop Bushwhack 10 Trail Race

Click for map page
Click for map page

Sunday, September 29, 8:30 a.m. (kids’ race), 9:15 a.m. (adult race)
This Sunday, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, New York 10560), when we race the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. All that training and those course checks come down to this—a 10k trail race featuring a challenging course that includes the highest peak in Westchester—Bailey Mountain—and beautiful views of Lookout Point and Hemlock Lake. The weather all week will be beautiful and the conditions on Sunday, ideal. Registration closes at midnight on Thursday night but we’ll hold a few places open if you want to bring a friend at the last minute. On-site registration will be $40 and we ask that you have exact change.

Next week we’ll be back at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in the Meadow parking lot to run the Dry Loop—that is, if you’re not going to be running Paine to Pain.

Hope to see you out there for this first annual Sarah Bishop Bushwhack.

Lee Willett

September 22, Mountain Lakes Park

Click for map page
Click for map page

Sunday, September 22, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, New York 10560), when we do a course check of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. This 10k trail race features a challenging course that includes the highest peak in Westchester—Bailey Mountain—and beautiful views of Lookout Point and Hemlock Lake. If the upper gate is open, park where indicated on the map—in the lot near the pool, accessible by an unpaved road across from Hemlock Lake. If the upper gate is closed, park near the lot at the trailhead to Lookout Point.

Next week we’ll be back at Mountain Lakes Park the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack Race. It’s going to be a lot of fun.

Hope to see you out there.

Lee Willett

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September 15, Mountain Lakes Park

Click for map page
Click for map page

Sunday, September 15, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at Mountain Lakes Park (201 Hawley Road, North Salem, New York 10560), when we do a course check of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. This 10k trail race features a challenging course that includes the highest peak in Westchester—Bailey Mountain—and beautiful views of Lookout Point and Hemlock Lake. If the upper gate is open, park where indicated on the map—in the lot near the pool, accessible by an unpaved road across from Hemlock Lake. If the upper gate is closed, park near the lot at the trailhead to Lookout Point.

Next week we’ll be back at Mountain Lakes Park for our final course check before the event.

Hope to see you out there.

Lee Willett

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Sarah Bishop Bushwhack

Sunday, September 29, 2013

The Sarah Bishop Bushwhack is a challenging 10k trail race held in Mountain Lakes Park, Westchester, New York, and benefitting educational wellness programs in area schools. The scenic course is named in honor of the hermitess of West Mountain, who lived alone for more than two decades around the turn of the 19th century in a small cave beneath an outcropping of rock on the eastern slope of the hill.

On September 29, 2013, we honor her indomitable spirit and oneness with nature with the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack and Sarah’s Scramble 1.5 mile kids’ race which takes runners on paths near her cave in the wooded Mountain Lakes Park, a 1,082-acre forested landscape with five lakes, spectacular views, and a few hills in between. Learn more about the race ››

April 28, Mountain Lakes Park

MLP_v2
view map page ››

On Sunday, April 28 at 8:00 a.m., meet at Mountain Lakes Park for a 5+ mile run in some of the highest points in Westchester. We’ll have great views from Lookout Point within the first mile and go to the top of Bailey Mountain, elevation 982 feet, the highest point in Westchester. Mark as redesigned the course since we ran it in January so it should be easier to follow. The main gate to the park will be open and there is some parking at the trail head where we’ll start. Additional parking should be available farther into the park at the dumpsters. View map page here ››

Next Sunday, May 5, is a course check for A Mild Sprain trail race in Sprain Ridge Park in Yonkers. Even if you’re not signed up for the race, it’s a great trail and an opportunity to run someplace new. On Sunday, we can discuss to see who’s interested and plan on car pooling.

The following week, May 12, is Mother’s Day. As such, I’d like to hear recommendations from the women in the group what you’d like to run that day (or what you’d like to see the men run). I’ll post the run of your choice. So far, I’ve had a request to run at Lasdon Park which would be a new location for us. Anyone else want to offer an opinion?

Hope to see you Sunday.

Lee Willett

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January 13 Mountain Lakes Park

view map page ››

On Sunday, January 13 at 8:00 a.m., meet at a new location—Mountain Lakes Park—for a 5.7 mile run in some of the highest points in Westchester. We’ll have great views from Lookout Point within the first mile and for those who want to to add another half mile can take a detour between miles 4 and 5 to go to the top of Bailey Mountain, elevation 982 feet, the highest point in Westchester. The course has a couple crossovers but I’ve indicated the route on the map so it should be easy enough to follow. The main gate to the park will be open and there is some parking at the trail head where we’ll start. Additional parking should be available farther into the park at the dumpsters.

Tony has offered to take a slight diversion at mile one to Sarah Bishop’s Cave for a little bushwhacking and history lesson for anyone interested. Should be fun.

Hope to see you out there.

Lee Willett

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