This Sunday, June 25, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Nature Conservancy Butler Sanctuary on Chestnut Ridge Road in Mt. Kisco (see in Google maps) when we run a combination of trails covering most of the park. Since Butler is a relatively small preserve, we’ll be following a double loop course to get to 5ish miles. Don’t worry, you’ll still get a workout since the terrain has a lot of ups and downs. Plus anyone interested in a longer run can head over to the Meyer Preserve and to Westmoreland Sanctuary afterwards for a few more miles. Meet in the Butler parking lot. See the map here ›› Looking to start early? Arrive at 5:00 a.m. and join me on a run from Butler to Meyer preserve. We’ll return at 7:00 a.m. for a short loop of Westmoreland.
This Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 a.m., let’s get back to those hill repeats from Kimberly Bridge. Come for as many or as few as you’d like then head out on the trails when you’ve had enough.
Next Saturday, July 1, I’m planning on running part of the Escarpment course. Let me know if you’re interested.
This Sunday, February 26, at 8:00 a.m., meet at Bennett’s Pond on the Ridgefield/Danbury border when we run an epic 10.5 mile loop designed by Keith Realander. Meet at the parking lot on Bennett’s Farm Road (see Google map) prepared to run this clockwise loop which includes some of the same trails in the Pavement Ends race. Those looking for a 6.5-mile run can eliminate the Hemlock Hills loop. An out-and-back to the end of of the White trail will get you a scenic 5 mile run so there are options for making the run shorter. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive at 7:00 a.m. See the map here ››
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.
This Sunday, January 22, 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. You might notice a slight uphill at the start of this run, but that’s normal. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive at 7:00 a.m.See the map here ››
This Sunday, January 8, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot when we follow the Michigan to Kimberly Bridge course. Michigan Road is our traditional starting point for runs in the southern portion of the reservation but this time we’ll run North from the lot to the Meadow, follow some of the Leatherman’s Loop course trail to Kimberly Bridge, then “up” the blue trail and return by way of yellow. There are some hills on this course particularly around mile 4. You have been warned. Anyone interested in getting a few more miles in can arrive at 7:00 a.m. for an early start. Trail Map here ››
On Saturday, January 7, at 7:00 a.m., meet at Ward Pound Ridge Michigan Road Lot for a special 15-mile(ish) perimeter loop. The course will be determined on the fly but will look something like this course(only starting at Michigan Road instead). If you’re not up for the full 15 miles, start with the group at 7:00 and return to Michigan Road from Kimberly Bridge for a run of about 7 miles.
This Sunday, October 9, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Muscoot Farm parking lot (http://goo.gl/maps/dTDiT) for a course check of the Run the Farm loop. This 5 mile course will start from the parking lot at 8:00 and follow the Run the Farm loop with the exception of finishing in the parking lot. If you’re signed up for the race, you’ll want to come to this course check and test out the trail. Just remember, please keep clear of the main farm and farm equipment and park on the side of the lot away from the farm. And bring some money so you can shop at the farmer’s market after the run. Download a map of the five-mile course here.
And don’t forget to register for the upcoming fall races: Run The Farm, Sunday, October 23 Raven Rocks Run, Sunday, November 13
Next week we’ll be back at the Reservation. Hope to see you out there this weekend. Lee Willett
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Great run and one of the first in a long time were we stayed together as a group. Nice job all.
This Sunday, October 2, at 8:00 a.m., the reservation will be hosting its annual Hunter Pace equestrian event so we’ll meet at Sylvan Glen, near Yorktown. This is a former quarry that provided the stone for the ramps to the George Washington and Whitestone bridges and there are remnants throughout the park as a result. We’ll follow a course that will cross one road and continue into Granite Knolls, an adjacent park where we’ll find the giant boulder—you’ll know it when you see it. If you want to continue your run, you can follow the perimeter of Granite Knolls and cross a bridge over the Taconic State Parkway into Woodlands Legacy Fields Park and add an extra 2.5 miles or more of the perimeter loop there. Those that want to start early can arrive at 7:00 a.m.
And don’t forget to register for the upcoming fall races: Run The Farm, Sunday, October 23 Raven Rocks Run, Sunday, November 13
Next week we’ll be at Muscoot for a course check of Run the Farm. Hope to see you out there this weekend. Lee Willett
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Thanks everyone for coming out and making the Sarah Bishop Bushwack so special. Mark, Barry, and I are already looking forward to next year’s race—we hope you are too.
(That moment when you realize there is no way you can outrun the mass of people running right toward you.)
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.
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).
This Sunday, May 22, at 9:45 a.m., meet at Sprain Ridge Park, Yonkers, for the fifth annual A Mild Sprain—the second in the Trail Mix Series of races. Race director David Vogel always makes sure this is a fun and challenging 4.25 mile race so plan on attending. Check in starts at 8:30 so come early and hang out before the race. Race-day registration is available.
Also available and starting at 8:00 a.m. is The Running Goddess 5k at Lasdon Park. This is a multi-terrain race through the park and proceeds support women and girls in their pursuit of health and education.
Now, I know what you’re thinking…. Yes, it is possible to run both races—think of this as the cross county challenge (because to do it, you need to cross the county). Run The Running Goddess 5k, jump in your car and (obeying all local speed limits) make your way to Sprain Ridge Park. The travel time is 35 minutes so you should have just enough time. Running Goddess race director Bettina Sementilli will make sure the race starts on time so you should be able to run A Mild Sprain.
Saturday, May 21, 8:00 a.m.
Looking for a Saturday run? I suggest checking out Zofnass Preserve in Pound Ridge. We’ll be there in a couple of weeks so this is your chance to check it out first.
What an awesome day at Storm King last week. Thank you Nick and Tony for offering such a unique run. This was something special. Lots more photos here ››
This Mother’s Day Sunday, May 8, at 8:00 a.m., we’ll run a new course at Blue Mountain—The Twin Peaks run. We’ll meet at the Blue Mountain Lodge and make a counterclockwise loop around the park for a total of 7.7 miles. Options include eliminating the climb to Spitzenberg Mountain and saving a mile or making the loop to the Depew Court lot and adding a mile. You can follow the course on Strava. Once we’re back together, we can head over to Peekskill Coffee House at 101 South Division Street for a cup of joe. Looking to start a little early? Arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a warm-up loop. Try to arrive before 8:00 to avoid any parking fee.
And save next Sunday for a special run at Storm King Art Center. We’ll meet at the entrance to Storm King at 8:45 a.m. for a 9:00 entry into the park which will open early just for us. Tony and Nick Ohnell are working out a course through the park which will take us by some of the most amazing outdoor sculpture. After the run, food will be provided courtesy of Nick. Families are welcome so RSVP to let us know how many are planning on coming please.
Sorry folks for the last-minute change of venue. If anyone wants to go to the NICA:NY XC Bike Race, go to Blue Mountain as planned. On Sunday, April 3, at 8:00 a.m., we’re going to pivot to the Ward Pound Ridge Trailside Museum for the Trailside to Overlook Run. You’ll have distances of 7.7, 6.3, or 5 miles but your mileage may vary. If you’re looking for even more miles, there are plenty of options for that. Looking to start a little early? Arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a warm-up. See the map here ››
Next week we’ll be back at the Reservation for the Raven Rocks Run as we get closer to the Leatherman’s Loop.
Hope to see you out there and sorry for the last-minute change of venue.
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Thanks for coming out last week for the Red/Rock trail run and welcoming some new faces to the crowd.
On Sunday, March 27, at 8:00 a.m., meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot and run some of the southern trails on the Red/Rock loop. We haven’t seen the Rock Trail since Fall so this is a chance to enjoy some of the more challenging trails in the park. Options include loops of 5, 6, and 7 miles (your mileage may vary). Those looking to do some extra miles can arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a 3 to 4 mile loop. See the map here ››
On Saturday, March 26, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the north end of the Harriman State Park Anthony Wayne parking lot when we run some of the trails at Bear Mountain. Groups can run from here to the NFEC finish and then back for a 14-mile run and anyone who wants to extend the run can head out on some of the NFEC course after a stop at the cars. Those coming up from the area can meet at the Katonah Woodsbridge parking lot at 7:00 a.m. and either caravan or carpool up. I’ve posted some very useful files for anyone interested in this run. You’re welcome.
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Great to see so many out last week at Leonard Park.
On Sunday, February 14, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Teatown Lake Reservation, 1600 Spring Valley Rd #1, Ossining, NY 10562, and run an out-and-back course on the Teatown Kitchawan Trail. The course consists of relatively easy trails, a dirt road, and a small stretch of pavement. The full course is 13.2 miles round trip marked as the gray line on the map but you can turn back at any point for a shorter run.
We’ll start at the Teatown Lake Reservation which has a HEATED nature center open at 9:00 a.m. After the run, you can bring a thermos of something warm to drink or something to eat and hang out while getting warm. It’s going to be cold out there on Sunday, I’m not going to lie about that, so dress warmly. If you’d like to get a few miles in early, arrive at 7:00 a.m.
This Sunday, February 7, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Meadow Parking Lot and rise to the challenge of the Fifth Annual Looper Bowl. Follow the loop course and live the excitement of the Leatherman’s Loop but colder. Detours are available to avoid both water crossings but not the mud flats so be prepared to get dirty. There’s a lot of water on the course but Tony has been through the Mud Flats and cleared out the worst of the buckthorn. If you want to get an early start, arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a few extra miles.
Next week we’ll be meeting at a new location when we run the Teatown Kitchawan Trail. More on that to come.
This Sunday, November 1, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Lot when we run a course check of the Raven Rocks Run. This will be our only course check so if you’re planning on running the November 15 race, this will be your chance to check out the course which includes the new CB trail. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a few extra miles but remember to set your clocks back Saturday night. See the map here ››
And anyone interested in a Saturday run, I can’t think of a more appropriate place for a Halloween run than at Devil’s Den. Saturday, October 31, at 8:00 a.m., meet at Devil’s Den parking lot, 3 Pent Road, Weston, CT, and run a 6.4 mile perimeter loop including the Ambler Gorge loop, but bring your own maps because no one wants to get lost in Devil’s Den on Halloween. See the map here ››
I look forward to seeing you this weekend
Register for the race here: Raven Rocks Run, Sunday, November 15
Sunday, October 25
This Sunday, October 26, at 9:30 a.m, meet at Muscoot Farm (http://goo.gl/maps/dTDiT) for the Run the Farm 5 Mile Trail Race. This 5 mile course starts from the farm and follows the outlying trails around Muscoot. You can download a map of the five-mile course here. 8:30 a.m. Kids’ Race (7 to 12-year-olds) 8:45 a.m. Kids’ Race 2 (6 and under) 9:30 a.m. 5 Mile Race
For more information, visit RunTheFarm.org.
Next week we’ll be back at the Reservation for our course check of the Raven Rocks Run. You won’t want to miss that.
This Sunday, October 18, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park Upper Lot when we run a new course that includes a new trail in the Reservation—The Town Park to Covered Bridge Loop. We’ll all start out together and head toward the Meadow and up the FH trail but from there, you’ll have options for different distances. Three of the four options will take you down the new CB trail to the new covered bridge. If you run the 7.3 or 8.6 loop, when you get to the private residence on Michigan, keep to your left and take the path around the house. The 8.6 mile option takes you to a couple smaller trails that we haven’t been on in a while so pay attention to the turns. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive at 7:00 for a short loop. Temperatures look like they’re going to be chilly so break out the warmer gear for this one. Download a PDF map of the course ››
Next week we’ll be back at Muscoot for Run The Farm. You won’t want to miss that. Run The Farm, Sunday, October 25 Raven Rocks Run, Sunday, November 15
Run the Farm Course Check Sunday, October 11, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, October 11, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Muscoot Farm parking lot (http://goo.gl/maps/dTDiT) for our ONLY course check of the Run the Farm loop. This 5 mile course will start from the parking lot at 8:00 and follow the Run the Farm loop with the exception of finishing in the parking lot. If you’re signed up for the race, you’ll want to come out and test the trail before race day. Just remember, please keep clear of the main farm and farm equipment, and park on the side of the lot away from the farm. Note that the gate won’t be open for a 7:00 run this week, sorry.
Next week we’ll be back in the Reservation for something new. Don’t forget to register for the upcoming fall races: Run The Farm, Sunday, October 25 Raven Rocks Run, Sunday, November 15
This Sunday, October 4, at 8:00 a.m., the reservation will be hosting its annual Hunter Pace equestrian event so we’ll meet at a new location for the group—Sylvan Glen near Yorktown. This is a former quarry that provided the stone for the ramps to the George Washington and Whitestone bridges and there are remnants throughout the park as a result. We’ll follow a course that will cross one road and continue into Granite Knolls, an adjacent park where we’ll find the giant boulder—you’ll know it when you see it. If you want to continue your run, you can follow the perimeter of Granite Knolls and cross a bridge over the Taconic State Parkway into Woodlands Legacy Fields Park and add an extra 2.5 miles of the perimeter loop there. Those that want to start early can arrive at 7:00 a.m.
Sunday, September 27, 9:15 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 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 8:45. 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.
Saturday, September 26, 7:00 a.m.
If you’re looking for a Saturday run, Kevin will be running at Sylvan Glen Park Preserve in Yorktown on Saturday at 7:00 a.m. Park at the lot at across from 2857 Grant Avenue, Mohegan Lake, NY, on the western entrance to the park. I’ve now posted the map of the course which winds through Sylvan Glen to Granite Knolls Park and back again. Don’t worry if you miss this, we’ll be running here very soon. See the map here ››
Sunday, September 20, 8:00 a.m. This four mile trail runs through Hemlock Hills in Ridgefield in a mix of fire road and single track that twists through areas that most of you will have never seen. Meet at the Ridgebury School, South Shore Drive, Ridgefield, CT and be ready to run at 8:00 a.m. This is another in the Trail Mix Series of races.
Sunday, September 20, 8:30 a.m. For those looking for something different, there’s the Second Annual Mt. Kisco 5K road race through the heart of Mt. Kisco. Sunday Runner Kathy Lynch is one of the race organizers for this event that starts at 8:30 a.m. at Kirby Plaza/Train Station. Post-race party at MTK Supper Club and take advantage of Mt. Kisco Sidewalk Sale Days, including some of the best food and shops in the area.
Not into racing on Sunday? No worries. Meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Meadow lot on Sunday at 8:00 a.m. and run the Fire Tower Summit course. Get ready for the final Trail Mix race of the season coming in November.
This Sunday, June 7, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Nature Conservancy Butler Sanctuary on Chestnut Ridge Road in Mt. Kisco (see in Google maps) when we run a new combination of trails covering most of the park. Since Butler is a relatively small preserve, we’ll be running most of the trails there to get close to 5 miles. Don’t worry, you’ll still get a workout since the terrain has a lot of ups and downs. Meet in the Butler parking lot. See the map here ››
Looking to start early? Arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a pre-run loop.
Saturday, June 6, 8:00 a.m.
For anyone looking for a Saturday run, meet in the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation at the Michigan Road parking lot and run the Michigan to Kimberly 6 mile loop.
This Sunday, May 31, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road parking lot when we run the Sights and Heights Loop. On this 7.5 mile route, you’ll see two great sights—from the Overlook to the west and Raven Rocks to the south—then it’s up to the heights—the fire tower and highest point in the park. If you’re not up for the full 7.5 miles, then see the sights and head back to the parking lot via the red trail for an abbreviated run. See the map here ›› Looking to start early? Arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a pre-run loop.
This Sunday, May 24, at 8:00 a.m., meet at a new location when we run the Blue Mountain Reservation Depew Court Loop. This run is a little farther away but it will be worth the trip. Meet at the Depew Court Pool parking lot (1 Depew Ct. at Bay St, Peekskill, NY 10566) at 8:00 a.m. but leave a little extra travel time. Options include a 4.5-ish mile loop and a 6.5-ish mile loop but once we’re back together, we’ll head over to Peekskill Coffee House at 101 South Division Street for a cup of joe. The perfect way to start the Memorial Day Sunday. Looking to start a little early? Arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a warm-up loop.
Saturday, May 23, 8:00 a.m.
For anyone looking for a Saturday run, I recommend heading up to Mountain Lakes Park and run the 10 loop. Meet at the Trailhead to Lookout Point.
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.
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.
Not planning on doing the races? Meet at Lewisboro Town Park Upper lot onSunday, 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.
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.
This Sunday, May 3, at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge reservation Michigan Road Lot when we run Rob’s Run—six miles of trails in the southern portion of the park that take us past the overlook, Leatherman’s Cave, Bear Rock Petroglyph, and Dancing Rock. Optional cutoff at intersection 34 will take a mile off the distance if you’re not feeling the love. Anyone looking to add some miles can arrive at 7:00 and run north to the Meadow and return via Schoolhouse Road in time for the group but bring your own maps—a few in the group will be running at Bear Mountain on Saturday though I’ll do my best to make it out on Sunday. See the map page ››
Next weekend we have two runs scheduled. Saturday, May 9, we’ll be running a course check of A Mild Sprain and on Sunday, May 10 (Mother’s Day), we’ll be meeting at Mountain Lakes Park and run some of those trails that we haven’t seen in a while.
Sunday, March 1, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Michigan Road lot when we run some of the large southern trails—Red, Yellow, and Green. This 5.5 mile loop follows the trails that have been well compacted by skiers, snow shoers, and runners so be prepared for a fast run. The temps might be a little cold at the start but it will warm up a bit as the sun rises. Those looking for an early start can arrive at 7:00 a.m. for a shortened loop. See the map page ››
And make sure you come out next week when we celebrate 5 Years of Sunday Runs. Five years ago Rob started the runs at the Town Park with a handful of local runners preparing for the Leatherman’s Loop. We’ll recreate that run (and add some miles as an option) to commemorate our humble beginnings. I hope some of the runners from that first day will show up.
Sunday, February 22, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Kimberly Bridge lot when we run a new course—Blue and Brown. The 4-mile Blue trail has been well packed and is a great run combining the initial long gentle trail and the steep up and down of the Fire Tower. Once back at the parking lot, head off to the DH trail and return via brown to add an additional 2.7 miles. Those who want to do a little more can tack on an extra mile by following DH through the pine forest and returning via Br. I’ve run all of these trails this week and for the most part they’re well compacted and stable. That said, we are expecting some snow on Saturday night and the temperatures on Sunday should be in the 30s so be prepared for anything.
Those looking to start early can arrive at 7:00 a.m. and run the DH/Br loop but bring a map—I can’t guarantee I’ll be there early this week.
Sunday, February 15, 8:00 a.m. Meet at Lewisboro Town Park upper parking lot and run the Town to Michigan Loop. From the Town Park, we’ll follow the DH trail to the Trailside Museum, follow Orange to Red/Yellow, then return via the Brown trail making a clockwise loop. I’ve marked loops of 3 miles, 5.5 miles, and 6.8 miles on the map so you have your choice of distances. As of Thursday, though, I didn’t see any activity on the FH trail from Michigan to the Meadow so I suggest we follow the road for that portion of the run instead.
Those looking to start early can arrive at 7:00 a.m. and get the 3-mile loop in as a warmup.
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?
This Sunday, December 21, at 8:00 a.m., we have a special holiday-themed run—get ready for the Red and Green loop. Meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot and head south on the Red/Green trail making a loop that includes the Red trail, the Green trail and a few other trails as well just to keep it interesting. At 760 feet elevation change, this 6.5 mile course is one of my flatter ones so there’s no excuse not to get out and have some fun. As usual, those looking for a shorter run can find creative ways to reduce the mileage. And those looking to get a few extra miles in can meet early for a 7:15 a.m. start.
Also, save the date of Friday, January 2, 7:00 p.m., for a night run in the reservation. We’re working on securing a lean-to for the evening and if it’s a clear night, we’ll have nearly a full moon to give us some extra light. I’ll post more details as they develop.
This Sunday, December 14, we’re running somewhere new—Mianus River Park on the Greenwich/Stamford border. This is NOT Mianus River Gorge so to make sure we don’t get lost before we start, we’ll meet at 7:40 a.m. in front of the Bedford Village Fire House and follow Tony for the short ride (about 15 minutes) to the park. The Mianus River Park parking lot is listed as 450 Cognewaugh Rd. in Cos Cob (Greenwich), CT 06807 and we should arrive there around 8:00 for those who want to meet there directly. We’ll run the outer loop which is about 5.5 miles and those who want can run another mile out and back to see a very special cave. You can learn more about Mianus River Park at friendsofmianusriverpark.org. See the park map here ››
Thanks to everyone who came out to the holiday party last weekend—you made it a lot of fun. Gerry and Eamonn would like to thank you as well, so in their own words:
Dear Harriers,
Eamonn and I cannot truly express the gratitude we have for the support you have given to us. The group has become a family for us and has touched us in a way will forever stay in our hearts (tho not in a good touch/bad touch way). It has been a gift to see how the group has welcomed and supported Eamonn every week. The spirit of the group has carried him through the first two rounds of this journey, and will give him some added strength when he toes the line in Myrtle Beach. Hopefully, by the time we leave South Carolina, the people will know who the Sunday Runners are, either by Eamonn becoming all-American, or us blowing up a car.
Peace
Gerry
Hello Harriers,
Thank you so much for having the fund raiser for my trip. It meant a lot to me to see that every one was willing to help me go to nationals. I will run even harder for the group and every one who helped me make it to nationals. Thank you again and I will see all of you at the Sunday runs.
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 ››
SUNDAY 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.
This Sunday, November 30, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park upper parking lot (see map) when we shed some pounds and run a perennial favorite—the Fat Ass Run. Seven miles of trail running is the perfect antidote to the tryptophan-laden butterball from Thanksgiving dinner. The fresh air will wake you up, you’ll feel reinvigorated, plus, as an added bonus, you’ll work up an appetite to help you finish those leftovers still cluttering up your fridge. For those who don’t want to do the full seven miles, a three-mile course is also an option. Now there’s no excuse not to come out. Anyone interested in getting an early start can arrive by 7:15 and get a few miles in before the run. Download PDF map ››
Friday, November 28, 8:30 a.m.
If anyone is interested in a post-Thanksgiving, black Friday run, meet at Mianus River Gorge in Bedford. The out-and-back is no farther than 5 miles, and with the snow, it’s going to be beautiful. The Mianus River Gorge office says they’re planning on being open on Friday so we’ll plan to meet there at 8:30 no matter what. Directions to Mianus ››
SUNDAY RUNS HOLIDAY PARTY
Email invites went out for the 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.
This Sunday, November 23, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Trailside Museum when we run the Museum to Blue route. This 6.5-mile course starts with a bit of an uphill (that’s being kind) but once you reach the Magic Stairs within the first half mile, you can catch your breath and enjoy yourself. There might be another hill or two along the way but nothing to worry about. By the time you reach the blue trail, you’ll remember what makes that one of our favorites in the park. If you’re not feeling the love of the FH trail, you can start down orange and cut a half mile (and a couple hundred feet of elevation) from the run.
Friday, November 28, at 8:30 a.m. Looking for a way to burn off those excess calories from Thanksgiving? Meet at Mianus River Gorge at 8:30 a.m. and run the out-and-back 5-ish mile course. Mianus will be closing at the end of the month so this will be the last run there until Spring.
Saturday, November 22, at 9:30 David Emerson from Westchester Land Trust will be out at Zofnass again on Saturday, November 22, at 9:30, to finish the cleanup job. It only takes a couple hours and the more that are there, the faster it will go. Anyone interested in helping out can see my post here.
And lastly, Save the Date of the night of Saturday, December 6, for our annual holiday party. More on that to come.
Next week we’ll be back a the Lewisboro Town Park for our Fat Ass run. I look forward to see you out there.
This Sunday, November 16, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park upper parking lot when we run a new course—the Town to Orange loop. Temperatures are falling but this 6.3 mile course will make sure you keep warm with some sizable hills to challenge you. You’ll have the initial climb to the cell tower, the DH trail climb, and then it’s up the blue trail for everyone’s favorite hill. By the time you’re done with that, any hills that remain will be a piece of cake.
Thanks for everyone who came out last Friday for the night run and for making it such a great success. We’ll be looking to do more of those from time to time. And thank you Barry Fagan, Eric Wilson, and Alan Wegener and family for spending a couple hours at Zofnass on Saturday to scrub the spray paint from the trail. I saw on Sunday’s run that there was still a section that needs further work so David Emerson from Westchester Land Trust will be out again on Saturday, November 22, at 9:30, to finish the job. Anyone interested in helping out can see my post here.
And lastly, Save the Date of the night of Saturday, December 6, for our annual holiday party. More on that to come.
This Sunday, November 9, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Zofnass Family Preserve on Upper Shad Road in Pound Ridge (see Google Map) when we run everyone’s favorite labyrinthian 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 excluding the orange, western loop. See the map page here.
On Saturday, November 8, 9:30 a.m., meet at Zofnass Family Preserve and help the Westchester Land Trust clean up this beautiful park. Show up at the main gate at 9:30 ready to work and bring rubber gloves, a nylon or wire brush, and jugs of water for scrubbing. If you have Fast Orange (preferable) or Simple Green cleaners, bring those as well although David Emerson from Westchester Land Trust will be picking some of those up as well. The more people that show up, the faster we can finish remediating the preserve. Hopefully, we’ll be done in a couple hours. In case of inclement weather, we may postpone the cleanup so visit this site Saturday morning to confirm we are on.
click for map page
WARD POUND RIDGE NIGHT RUN
On Friday, November 7, 7:00 p.m., join us at Ward Pound Ridge Michigan Avenue (at lean-to #5) when we run our first night run. We’ll head south toward the the Overlook then to Raven Rocks for a total of 6 miles. You’ll definitely want a headlamp or flashlight and probably bring something to drink afterwards—you know, rehydrate. We’ve reserved the lean-to for the evening which has an open fire pit and a covered fireplace so we will plan to run no matter the weather. There are options for a 4.7-mile loop and a 6-mile loop, both of which follow most of the same large trails in the southern part of the park. We will have a sign-in sheet so please sign in before the run and sign out afterwards. Also, everyone will need to run with a buddy. Once we’re on the trails, we’ll naturally separate by pace so make sure no one gets separated.
It’s going to be a great weekend of events. I look forward to see you out there.
This Sunday, November 2, at 8:00 a.m, we’re going to meet at a new location—the Leon Levy Preserve in South Salem. The parking lot entrance is on Route 123 about half a mile south of Route 35. At 383 acres, this preserve is relatively small so we’re going to do things a little differently this week. Instead of a fixed course (that some can’t follow anyway), bring a map of the entire preserve and run whatever trails you find in whatever order you want. I have a favorite course (you can see on Strava) but that doesn’t mean you have to do the same. I’ll put flags on the paths at exit points to keep you in the park and after 75 minutes, we’ll regroup in the parking lot and see just how much distance you covered. If you want to stick around until 11:30, the Lewisboro Land Trust will be having a dedication ceremony for the new parking lot—you can thank them for their generous donation that made access to the park possible. Note—there are no restroom facilities at the park. Download a map of the park here.
Download the .KMZ or .KML file and open in Google Earth (not a bad idea to do this on your phone before Sunday—just sayin’)
See my usual 5.6 mile course on Strava.
click for map page
On Friday, November 7, 7:00 p.m., join us at Ward Pound Ridge Michigan Avenue (at lean-to #5) when we run our first night run. We’ll head south toward the the Overlook then to Raven Rocks for a total of 6 miles. You’ll definitely want a headlamp or flashlight and probably bring something to drink afterwards—you know, rehydrate. We’ll build a fire and have fun.
On Saturday, November 8, 9:30 a.m., meet at Zofnass Family Preserve and help the Westchester Land Trust clean up this beautiful park. I’ll post any supplies you might want to bring—work gloves, brushes, buckets and the like—next week.
Next Sunday we’ll be running at Zofnass to show off your good work. I look forward to seeing you on the trails.
Sunday, October 26
This Sunday, October 26, at 9:30 a.m, meet at Muscoot Farm (http://goo.gl/maps/dTDiT) for the Run the Farm 5 Mile Trail Race. This 5 mile course starts from the farm and follows the outlying trails around Muscoot. You can download a map of the five-mile course here. 8:30 a.m. Kids’ Race (7 to 12-year-olds) 8:45 a.m. Kids’ Race 2 (6 and under) 9:30 a.m. 5 Mile Race
For more information, visit RunTheFarm.org.
Next week we’ll be meeting at a new location—Levy Preserve on Route 124 near Route 35 in South Salem. And Save the date of Friday, November 7, at 7:00 p.m. We’ve reserved the lean-to at Michigan Road that night for our first night run. Grab your headlamp, flashlight or whatever you have—it’s going to be dark. And come out to Zofnass on the morning of Saturday, November 8, and help Westchester Land Trust remediate the preserve. The more that come, the faster we’ll be done.
Run the Farm Course Check Sunday, October 19, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, October 19, at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Muscoot Farm parking lot (http://goo.gl/maps/dTDiT) for a course check of the Run the Farm loop. This 5 mile course will start from the parking lot at 8:00 and follow the Run the Farm loop with the exception of finishing in the parking lot. If you’re signed up for the race, you’ll want to come to this course check and test out the trail. Just remember, please keep clear of the main farm and farm equipment, and park on the side of the lot away from the farm. You can download a map of the five-mile course here.
Sunday, October 12, 8:00 a.m. Sorry folks, the course check for Run the Farm has been postponed a week. Instead, meet at Lewisboro Town Park and run the Town to Michigan Loop. Start at the Lewisboro Town Park upper parking lot and follow the DH trail to the Trailside museum then return via the Brown trail making a clockwise loop. I’ve marked loops of 3 miles, 5.5 miles, and 6.8 miles on the map but if you want a longer run, you can take the Red trail at intersection 33 and head to Raven Rocks for a run somewhere between 8 and 9 miles. Or if you want to add some hill work, take the FH trail over Fox Hill before making the southern loop. Plenty of options here but I won’t be able to join you so bring your own maps (unless you want to get lost).
Have a great run and I’ll see you next week at Muscoot Farm.
