This Sunday, January 12 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot when we follow a course from Michigan Road to Kimberly Bridge. This time, we’re going to run the course against the arrows, starting on Red-Yellow, going down the Blue slope and passing the Meadow lot before returning to Michigan Road. Make sure you save some energy in reserve for that final climb. PDF of the trail is available here ››
Next week we’ll meet at Mountain Lakes Park for another try of the Outer OS loop that will be new to most of you.
Start the new year off right with this classic run. On Sunday, January 5 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge reservation Michigan Road Lot when we run Rob’s Recovery 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 out and back to Rob’s Ruin for those who want to add a little more distance.
Next week, we’ll be back at the Michigan Road Lot again but this time we’ll head north to Kimberly Bridge.
January 1, 10:00 a.m.
Looking for a way to start your new year off right? How about a nice 5 or 7-mile trail run? This course is the perfect antidote for that hangover. Breathe in the air, get that heart pounding, and clear your head. Meet at the Lewisboro Town Park upper parking lot on January 1, 10:00 a.m. Oh, and if you’re not up for the full run, there are plenty of options to make it shorter. Visit the map page ››
This Sunday, December 29 at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Trailside Museum when we run the last run of the year—the Museum, Michigan, Raven and Blue Loop. This course will start us over Fox Hill which is always an eye-opener, then take us to Michigan Road then the Green trail to the southern portion of the park. You’ll get a view from Raven Rocks before entering the “waterfall” section of the RT trail to one of the lowest portions of the park before starting the climb back up. Keep an eye open at intersection 13 because you don’t want to end up at Pell Hill, but follow Blue down the hill and return to the Museum. While it may only be 5.6 miles, this is a fun and challenging run. Download PDF map ››
Saturday, December 28 at 8:00 a.m. Anyone interested in a Saturday run, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Trailside museum at 8:00 a.m. to run the Museum to Blue Route. I won’t be there but you can run it in either direction—either start going up Fox Hill or finish coming down it. Either way the trails are spectacular right now so this is another chance you have to run with the group. Just bring your own map.
This Sunday, December 22 at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Meadow Parking lot when we run the Meadow, Michigan, to Museum Loop. We’ll head south from the meadow over Fox Hill to Michigan Road. Depending on the trail conditions, we can decide whether to make the run a 5-mile or 6.15-mile loop. We’re expecting some warmer temperatures before Sunday so we’ll see how much of the snow melts off before Sunday. Download PDF map ››
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.
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.
This Sunday, December 8 at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road Lot when we run a new course called the Blue Moon Trail. While it’s new to us, this is the revival of a course that Tony and Dave Cope created many years ago (although Dave denies any knowledge of being involved). We now have a map of the course with an optional 3.5 mile loop for those who don’t want to do the full course which involves some bushwhacking below lookout point and an “abandoned” trail west of there. We’ll be running the course against the arrows this time and starting off through the marsh below Michigan Road then climbing up to the Overlook. If nothing else, just show up on Sunday and follow Tony. See map ›› | Download PDF ››
A Special Note from Tony Godino to the Group
Some of you may already know that Eamonn Sullivan has qualified for and will be competing in the USATF Cross Country Junior Olympics in San Antonio Texas on December the 14th. He recently finished 2nd in an association meet qualifier and 5th in the regional qualifier. When I looked at the regional results I couldn’t help but notice that the four boys ahead of him and most of those behind him were all associated with a club while Eamonn ran “unattached”. Let’s fix that and give him (and Gerry) some support. As of today, I have $400 pledged from “anonymous” sources. If some of you would like to contribute it would be wonderful. A personal note of encouragement with your contribution would be extra special. I will be running with the group on the 8th to collect. If you can’t be there on the 8th but would still like to help out just e-mail me at acgodino@verizon.net and I will get back to you with specifics.
This Sunday, December 1 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. Download PDF map ››
Friday, November 29, 8:30 a.m.
If anyone is interested in a post-Thanksgiving, black Friday run, I’m going to try out the Mianus River Gorge in Bedford. I’ve been told that out and back is no farther than 5 miles but I’ve been wanting to try it out before it closes December 1. I’ll be at the parking lot marked on the map at 8:30 a.m. Directions ›› Downloadable Tail Map ››
Google map embedded after the jump.
On Sunday, November 24 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run the Meadow to Overlook loop. We’ll start from the Meadow lot and run the course in reverse so we’ll be passing the Trailside Museum near the end of the run. We should have a beautiful view from the Overlook, weather permitting.
Next week we’ll be meeting at the Lewisboro Town Park when we run the Fat Ass Run and let me know if you’re interested in a Friday morning run. It’s always great to get out the day after Thanksgiving.
This Sunday, November 10 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 might be a little bit of an incline at mile one and another at mile four so don’t hate your run director—hate the hill. PDF of the trail is available here ››
Next week we’ll change up the scenery a bit and meet at Leonard Park to run the Leonard to Butler course.
This Sunday, November 3 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Meadow parking lot when we run a new version of an old favorite—the Fire Tower Summit Run. This 6.2 mile version will seem familiar to most but I’ve rerouted us down the red trail at intersection 33 rather than the “ankle breaker” section of of the RT trail near Indian Rock Shelter. But before you get all weepy and think that this is a cakewalk, don’t worry, the downhill between 48 and 58 will keep you on your toes, not to mention the climb up to the Fire Tower Summit which is always, ahem, fun. And remember, daylight savings time ends so SET YOUR CLOCKS BACK before the run.
And after the run, you’ll want to hang around when we celebrate Tony Godino’s birthday with cupcakes and whatever Judy has up her sleeve. We’ll make a party of it. Please let us know if you’re coming by submitting the form below, thanks.
Next week we’ll be at Michigan Road to run the Michigan to Kimberly Bridge course.
Sunday, October 20, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, October 20 at 8:00 a.m, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Trailside Museum when we run the 7 mile Museum to Blue route. This course will start down the orange trail and wind past Raven Rocks before heading back via the blue trail and Kimberly Bridge. This time of year, the view from Raven Rocks and the beautiful blue trail will be particularly nice.
Saturday, October 19, 8:00 a.m.
This Saturday, 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 last course check and test out the trail. You can download a map of the five-mile course here. Just please stay off of any farm equipment and park on the side of the lot away from the farm.
We’ll be back at Muscoot again next week for the Run The Farm race.
Sunday, October 6, 8:00 a.m. New Meeting Location: Trailside Museum
This Sunday, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Trailside Museum Lot when we run the Meadow Dry Loop. This approximately six-mile course follows much of the Leatherman’s Loop but nixes the water crossings and mud flats. What’s left? Still a challenging and fun run on what will be one of the most colorful days of the year.
For those who are running Paine to Pain, good luck to all of you. If you’d like to car pool, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park lower parking lot at 7:00 and the 684 exit 4 park and ride at 7:15. We’ll see you again next week at Muscoot Farm for one of two course checks of the Run the Farm course.
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.
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.
Sunday, September 8, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday, meet at Westmoreland Sanctuary when we run 5.2 Mile Westmoreland Perimeter Loop. It’s been a while since we ran this course that was hit hard last year by Sandy but I’ve been assured that the trails are runnable and in good shape. I won’t have the chance to mark the trail in advance so bring a map and keep your eyes open for trail markers along the way. Those wanting a longer run can run part or all of the trail again or cross the road to Butler Sanctuary and add another 3.5 miles following the perimeter trails (see trail map). See Google Map ››
Saturday, September 7, 8:00 a.m. This Saturday is the Katonah 5k Road and Trail Race. While a 5k might be a shorter distance than you’re used to, Christy’s first-place finish last week proved that shorter races have a place in anyone’s training schedule. And besides, it’s a great event benefitting a great cause. Learn more at Raceit.com.
Sunday, September 1, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run the Meadow to Overlook loop. This is the same route we ran on July 4th and includes a finish at the river. We’ll start from the Meadow lot and pass the Trailside Museum before heading into the southern portion of the reservation and returning via Schoolhouse Road. At the end of the run, you have the option of cooling off by crossing the stream instead of heading over the bridge. Depending on the heat, it might be a refreshing change. I’ll also drop a cooler of water at Michigan Road which is the halfway point of the run.
Saturday, August 31, 8:00 a.m. We’ll be doing a bit of trail cleanup for the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. Anyone interested in giving us a hand while running between stops, meet at the parking lot at the trailhead to Lookout Point at 8:00 a.m.
If you’re up for a faster Saturday run, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot to run the Meadow, Michigan and Museum loop. I’d suggest turning left at intersection 46, though, to keep in the shade of the pine forest near the end.
Monday, September 2, 9:30 a.m.
St. John’s Episcopal Parish is proud to bring you the 3rd Annual South Salem Church Tavern Biathlon. Race director Brian Stempel, a Sunday Runs regular, makes sure everyone has a great time and the after-race barbeque is not to be missed. The majority of the funds generated from the race will go to same worthy charities we continue to support (The Carpenter’s Kids Program, Community Center of Northern Westchester, and The Wounded Warrior Project). – See more and register ››
I’m still deciding on next week’s venue. Any suggestions?
Sunday, August 25, 8:00 a.m.
Let’s change things up thus Sunday at a different venue. Meet at the Muscoot Farm parking lot for a run of the Run the Farm 5 mile course. Even though there are a couple months before that race, it’s always a great trail. Those who want a longer run can go back out for a second full or partial loop. You can see a map of the five-mile course here.
Saturday, August 24, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at the pool parking lot in Mountain Lakes Parkand follow the 10K Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. We’ll be doing some Sunday Runs on the course before race day so if you miss this, you’ll still have a chance to run before the race. You can see a map of the course here.
Next week we’ll be back in the Reservation at the Meadow parking lot to run the Meadow to Overlook course.
Sunday, August 18, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday we’ll switch things up a bit and run a longer distance to prepare for the Paine to Pain race in the fall. Meet at the trailhead for the Leatherstocking trail in New Rochelle (Google map: 2 Hillside Crescent, New Rochelle, NY). We’ll follow the Paine to Pain map through Saxon Woods, by the Hutch, and return via Mill Road/North Ave. for a 10 mile loop. If you’d like to do the full loop, you can continue on the full 13.1 mile course back to the starting point. Limited on-street parking is available on Hillside Crescent. If that is full, park on Lyncroft Road (around house number 312) and follow the course map to the trailhead.
Those who want to car pool from Lewisboro and Ridgefield can meet at the town park at 7:20. Those coming from other points can meet at the Park and Ride, exit 4 on 684, at 7:35. That should give everyone enough time to get to the trail for an 8:00 start.
Saturday, August 17, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Trailside Museum, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, and run the Museum to Raven Rocks 6 mile loop. This is the trail that heads over Fox Hill initially which will certainly get your attention. After that, the course becomes somewhat more forgiving and ends on the beautiful downslope of the orange trail.
Sunday, August 11, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot when we run a new course—the Green Rock Trail. We’ll start out on the beautiful (and relatively easy) Green trail then transition to the rock trail at the southern portion of the park. We’ll be going down the “stairs” this time which means we’ll have to climb up to Raven Rocks before returning via the Yellow trail. It’s a 6.5 mile mixed bag of wide trails and single path, level ground and hills. Should be a lot of fun. See the map page ›› | Download the PDF ››
Saturday, August 10, 8:00 a.m.
For those interested in a Saturday run, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot to run the Michigan to Kimberly Bridge course. It’s always a favorite that we’ll be running soon on a future Sunday.
Sunday, August 4, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Trailside Museum when we run a new course—the Museum to Blue 7 miler. While this run is a little longer than most, it doesn’t go over the Fire Tower, up the Overlook, or over Fox Hill. What’s left? Some gorgeous trails like Orange and Blue with some hills in the southern portion of the park. Halfway through, you can pause to enjoy the view from Raven Rocks—always a treat. See the map page ›› | Download the PDF ››
Saturday, August 3, 8:00 a.m.
For those interested in a Saturday run, meet at the Meadow parking lot to run the Meadow, Michigan & Museum course. Your choice whether you want to finish through the meadow or over the river. Both options are available.
Sunday, July 28, 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. Park where indicated on the map—in the lot near the pool, accessible by an unpaved road across from Hemlock Lake.
Saturday, July 27, 8:00 a.m.
We’ll be running a course check for Sunday’s course check. Meet at Mountain Lakes park for a run of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack 10k trail race. Bike up and get even more of a workout (see below).
Saturday, July 27, 7:00 a.m.
Thinking about doing the Church Tavern Biathlon? Bring your bike and meet at the South Salem commuter lot on Spring Street on Saturday at 7:00 a.m. and we’ll ride most of the 7 mile cycle course before heading up to Mountain Lakes Park for the Sarah Bishop course check. Total distance one way is 8.5 miles but there are some, er, hills. More information about the biathlon ›› | Registration for the race is now open ››
Next week we’ll be back at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Trailside Museum, when we run a variation of the Museum to Blue Route.
Sunday, July 21, 8:00 a.m. This Sunday, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run the Meadow to Overlook loop. This is the same route we ran on July 4th and includes a finish at the river. We’ll start from the Meadow lot and pass the Trailside Museum before heading into the southern portion of the reservation and returning via Schoolhouse Road. At the end of the run, you have the option of cooling off by crossing the stream instead of heading over the bridge. Depending on the heat, it might be a refreshing change. I’ll also drop a cooler of water at Michigan Road which is the halfway point of the run.
Saturday, July 20, 8:00 a.m. If you’re up for a Saturday run, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot to run the Meadow, Michigan and Museum loop. I’d suggest turning left at intersection 46, though, to keep in the shade of the pine forest near the end.
Next Sunday we’ll be at Mountain Lakes Park for a course check of the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. I hope to see you out there.
Sunday, July 14, 8:00 a.m.—Meet at Kimberly Bridge
This Sunday, meet at Kimberly Bridge to run the Trailside to Tower run. We’ll go against the arrows on the map and start up the Blue trail on Fire Tower hill before making our way to the Trailside Museum and Deer Hollow. Should be fun. See the map here ››
Saturday, July 13, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at Mountain Lakes park for the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. We’re still fine-tuning the course but this time, go past our usual meeting place (the trailhead to Lookout Point) and turn left at the next road. Follow that past the lake and take the fork to the left. That will lead to our parking place near the pool.
Next week we’ll be meeting at the Meadow Lot. Hope to see you out there.
Sunday, July 7, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot when we run a new course devised by Eleanor Heppner Hershey and aptly named Eleanor’s Escape. This route combines the best of the Yellow, Red, Blue, and Green trails and includes wide-open paths and single-track hills. Optional photo op at Raven Rocks before heading back by way of Red and Green. I know you’re going to love this one. See Eleanor’s Escape map here ››
Saturday, July 6, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at Mountain Lakes park for the Sarah Bishop Bushwhack. We’re still fine-tuning the course but this time, go past our usual meeting place (the trailhead to Lookout Point) and turn left at the next road. Follow that past the lake and take the fork to the left. That will lead to our parking place near the pool.
Thursday, July 4, 8:00 a.m. Join us for a special July 4 run at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation when we run a new route—the Meadow to Overlook loop. We’ll start from the Meadow lot and pass the Trailside Museum before heading into the southern portion of the reservation before returning via Schoolhouse Road. At the end of the run, you have the option of cooling off by crossing the stream instead of heading over the bridge. Depending on the heat, it might be a refreshing change.
Sunday, June 30, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run one of our all-time favorite courses—the Fire Tower course. This 10k run takes us down the rocky scramble that’s the yellow trail then up the back side of Fire Tower hill before returning back to the meadow. It’s the perfect run to whet your appetite for the Summer Runs Sunday Pot Luck later in the day.
Don’t forget to to RSVP for our Sunday Runs Pot Luck on June 30 at 4:00 at Westmoreland. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone in “real” clothes for a change. The RSVP form lets you know what we need but if you have any questions, you can let me know or contact Annie Bai, our de facto social director (thanks Annie).
Saturday, June 29, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at the Meadow Parking Lot for the Meadow, Michigan, and Museum loop. It’s hilly, but it’s fun.
Sunday, June 23, 8:00 a.m.
Let’s change things up thus Sunday at a different venue. Meet at the Muscoot Farm parking lot for a run of the Run the Farm 5 mile course. Even though there are months before that race, it’s always a great trail. Those who want a longer run can go back out for a second full or partial loop. You can see a map of the five-mile course here.
Saturday, June 22, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in a Saturday run can meet at the trail head to Lookout Point in Mountain Lakes Parkand follow the 5.2 mile “Sarah Bishop” course around the park. While this most likely won’t be the final course map for the September 29th event, it certainly is a good preview. You can see a map of the course here.
Don’t forget to to RSVP for our Sunday Runs Pot Luck on June 30 at 4:00 at Westmoreland. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone in “real” clothes for a change. Next week we’ll be back at the Ward Pound Ridge reservation Meadow Lot for a run of the Fire Tower loop.
Sunday, June 16, 8:00 a.m.
This Sunday, we commemorate the one-year anniversary of Rob’s downfall and rise again with this classic run named in his honor—Rob’s Ruin Run. Six miles of trails in the southern portion of the park that take us past the overlook, Bear Rock and Dancing Rock. I’ve posted a new variation of this run that is true to the original plan including the trail egress near the lean-to campsite on Michigan road. .
Saturday, June 15, 8:00 a.m.
While I know it’s only been a few weeks since we last ran the Rock Trail, it’s too fun to miss. If you’re up for a Saturday run, meet at the Michigan Road lot for the 5.5 mile Rock Trail Loop.
Next week, let’s mix things up a bit and head over to Muscoot Farm and check out the 5-mile Run The Farm loop. That’s always fun.
Sunday, June 9, 8:00 a.m. Meet at the Michigan Road parking lot in the Pound Ridge Reservation for a very special run. Tony Godino and Dave Cope, two of the founders of the Leatherman’s Loop, are going to send us on an unmapped trail run in the southern portions of the park, reviving trails that were used many years ago but that we’ve not run. They’ll be marking the trail in advance but we won’t have any maps of the course so our fate is completely in their hands. It should be a lot of fun—you won’t want to miss it.
Saturday, June 8, 8:00 a.m. Meet at the Michigan Road parking lot in the Pound Ridge Reservation for the Michigan to Kimberly 6 mile loop. This is always a fun run and you can choose whether you want to run it clockwise or counterclockwise. The clockwise course puts the steep hill in the center of the run. Counterclockwise lets you save the worst until the end. It’s your call.
Next week we’ll be back at the Michigan road lot again when we follow Rob’s Ruin Run and commemorate the one-year anniversary of Rob’s fall and subsequent return.
Sunday, June 2, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Trailside Museum in the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation for the Trailside to Tower 5.8 mile loop. This will come as no surprise that this is a hilly course so get ready for a good workout. While the course starts out at a steady climb, the hills really kick in before miles 2.5 and 4 which makes the rest of the run seem like a walk in the park.
Also on this Sunday is the Running Goddess 5k Race at Lasdon Park. I’ll be helping out there so if you’re at the reservation, bring your own maps.
Saturday, June 1, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Trailside Museum for the Museum to Raven Rocks 5.2 mile loop. This is one of my favorite runs which starts out fairly steep and ends on the Orange trail in a gradual down slope.
Next week we’ll be running a very special no-maps course created by Tony Godino and Dave Cope, two of the founders of the Leatherman’s Loop. You won’t want to miss this run.
Sunday, May 26, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at the Meadow Parking Lot when we run a beautiful course that mixes up a little bit of everything—the Meadow to Blue route. It starts out relatively flat with only a gradual incline then at mile 3.5, hello, we switch to single-track pretty steep uphill before tapering back down. It’s a fun course I’ve been wanting to schedule for a while.
Saturday, May 25, 8:00 a.m.
If you’re interested in this Saturday run, meet at the Meadow Lot for the Meadow, Michigan and Museum loop.
Next week we’ll be meeting at the Trailside Museum.
This Sunday, May 19, at 8:00, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park upper parking lot when we run the Town to Michigan 6.8 mile loop. We’ll be running this loop in a clockwise direction which passes the trailside museum, Michigan Road and the Meadow before returning home. As I recall, the last time we ran this there was about a foot of snow on the ground. Fortunately, that’s not likely to happen again. I’ll be at A Mild Sprain so bring your own maps.
Sunday is alsoA Mild Sprain trail race at Sprain Ridge Park. If you’re interested in car pooling, for those in Connecticut and Northern Westchester, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park lower parking lot at 8:00. For those farther south, meet at the 684 exit 4 park and ride at 8:20. Sign in is from 8:30 to 9:30 so that should give us plenty of time. Let me know if you’re interested.
Saturday, May 18, 8:00 a.m.
Anyone interested in an additional run can meet on Saturday at the town park for the Town to Trailside 5.7 mile loop.
Sunday, May 12, at 8:00 Meet at the Ward Pound Ridge reservation, Michigan Road Lot, when we run a new course—the Michigan, Red and Rock Trail. We’ll start at Michigan Road and take some of the wider paths to the Rock Trail where the course narrows and the hills begin. We’ll go up the stairs to Spy Rock then up more to the overlook before returning to Michigan Road on a nice downhill finish. Lots of hills on this great run. See the map page here ››
Saturday, May 11, 8:00 a.m.
If anyone is interested in an additional Saturday run, meet at Michigan Road for the Michigan to Kimberly 6 mile loop. Follow the path as marked in a clockwise loop including the uphill after Kimberly Bridge. Enjoy. Also, there will be another course check of A Mild Sprain if anyone is interested in checking out the course. If you are and want to car pool, be at the Lewisboro Town Park, lower lot, at 7:20.
Next week is A Mild Sprain at Sprain Ridge Park but for those looking for a run closer to home, meet at the Lewisboro Town Park for the Town to Michigan run.
This Sunday, May 5, at 8:00, is a course check of A Mild Sprain trail race at the Sprain Ridge Park in Yonkers. This 4.25 mile trail has lots of ups and downs, switchbacks and single-tracks. While “only” 4.25 miles, it’s challenging. And if you feel short-changed afterwards, you can go out for a couple extra miles on this scenic course.
Car Pool instructions: For those in South Salem, Waccabuc, Ridgefield area: meet at the Lewisboro Town Park LOWER PARKING LOT at 7:20. For those in Mt. Kisco, Katonah, Brewster, meet at the park and ride, exit 4 on Rt. 684 at 7:35. Coordinate with me if you’re interested.
If you’d prefer to stay a little closer to home, then I suggest meet at the Meadow Parking lot for the “Meadow, Michigan & Museum” 6.15 mile run. I’ll be at Sprain Ridge so bring your own maps.
Next week we’ll be at the reservation running on some of the southern trails. For those who are interested in a Saturday run, I’ll be recommending runs for Saturdays as well through the summer starting next week.
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?
I look forward to seeing many of you at the Leatherman’s Loop this Sunday. I know we’re expecting a little rain later this week but that should just make the mud flats that much more fun. On the 28th, we’ll be meeting at Mountain Lakes Park for a new version of the course that Mark has set up for us. This time, we’ll be going to the highest point in the park—the highest point in the county, actually. Don’t miss this fun run. I’ll send an update and post the trail map before the event. Have a great race everyone. —Lee Willett
Important notes from the Leatherman’s Loop team
Race organizers Mike Paletta, Tony & Judy Godino, Rob Cummings and the dedicated Leatherman’s Loop volunteers have been working hard to set up this year’s event. All we need is YOU!
Below are some important instructions regarding the Loop. Registration is packed full. We will need your help to ensure that loop day goes smoothly.
Here are some tips that you can incorporate into your plan for the morning and the day:
1.) ARRIVE EARLY! Please plan to arrive at the park before 8:20. Car pool if you can. Traffic will back up considerably at the park entrance as race time approaches. Please be patient. The regular $10 parking fee is incorporated as part of the loop entry fee so entry will go more quickly. It is always wise to arrive earlier than you think you need to in order to make sure you are all set by race start time (9am). This is especially true if it is your first time running the Loop.
2.) DRIVE SLOWLY and CAREFULLY in the Park! Watch the volunteers who are directing the parking. PARK TIGHT! Plan ahead – Car Pool if you can!. For a helpful overview of the race location (parking, start, bib pickup), check the logistics page on the website.
This Sunday, April 14 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking lot for the final course checks of the Leatherman’s Loop. If you’re running the race this year, this is your last chance to run the course with the group before race day so come out and see the trail for yourself. The water crossings are optional but not the Mud Flats so you might want to bring a second set of shoes to change into. I’m just sayin’.
Next week is the Leatherman’s Loop but in two weeks, we’ll meet at Mountain Lakes Park when we run the 5.7 mile loop and visit the highest point in Westchester.
This Sunday, April 7 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking lot for the first of two course checks of the Leatherman’s Loop. If you’re running the race this year, this will be the first of two course checks and a great chance to get out and test the terrain. The water crossings are optional but not the Mud Flats so you might want to bring a second set of shoes to change into. I’m just sayin’.
We’ll be back at the Meadow lot again next week for the final course check.
This week, March 31 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run the Meadow Northern Loop. This is a 5.7 mile loop that follows some of the same trails as the Leatherman’s Loop run so it’s a perfect opportunity to see what the trail is like. Instead of the wall, we’ll be running up part of the fire tower hill so don’t worry, you’ll get some hill training in.
This Sunday, March 24 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Michigan Road lot when we follow the Michigan Road to Kimberly Bridge route. To keep things interesting, we’re going to run this in a counter-clockwise direction which puts the hill from the Meadow at the end of the run. It also portions of the loop course including the finish line. Great training for the loop. PDF of the trail is available here ››
Next week we’ll be back at the Meadow Parking Lot when we run a variation of the Loop course.
With the arrival of more snow, our run from Leonard Park will be postponed again. We will aim for next week but may put it off further if necessary. This Sunday, March 10 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Lewisboro Town Park upper lot when we run the Town to Trailside Loop. This run will take us into the Reservation through the meadow lot for a brief stint on the road to the Trailside Museum then up part of the Fire Tower Hill before we go down to Kimberly Bridge and back via the DH trail. There are lots of good hills here so it’s good training for the Loop if that’s what you’re thinking.
Next week we’ll try the run from Leonard Park again if conditions permit.
This Sunday, March 3 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Reservation Trailside Museum when we run the Trailside to Raven Rocks 6 mile loop. This course will take us over the magic stairs—everybody’s favorite staring climb and a perfect way to tone those muscles you’ll need for the Wall—past Michigan Road to the scenic overlook of Raven Rocks. For those looking to do a smaller loop, follow the red and yellow trail and you can shorten your run significantly.
Next week we’re going to try Leonard Park again and some new trails, hopefully the trails have thawed out a bit.
If you are up for a longer challenge, Todd Jennings is directing Rock The Ridge 50 mile endurance challenge at the spectacular Mohonk Preserve on May 4th, 2013. The challenge is open to relay teams, groups, or solo runners. All speeds welcome.
Last year one of our Sunday Run crew, Dave Vogel, started A Mild Sprain in Yonkers, NY to raise money for JDRF. On May 19th, 2013 he’s bringing this tough 4.25 mile trail run through the woods of Sprain Ridge County Park back for a second year.
For a great and constantly updated list of trail races in the tri-state area, look no further than this list from Chris Jaworski of the Essex Running Club. Chris is a die hard trail and ultra runner who has personally sampled many of the trail races he lists.
A last-minute change of plan this week. Because of icy conditions at Butler Sanctuary, we’re going to postpone the Leonard Park run for two weeks to give the trails some time to thaw out. This week, February 24 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Meadow Parking Lot when we run the Meadow, Michigan, and Museum Loop. This is a 6.15 mile loop starts at the Meadow, goes south over Fox Hill to Michigan Road, then follows Yellow to the Trailside Museum. The second half of the run takes us through the pine forest and back through the meadow—the finish of the Leatherman’s Loop. With the storm on Saturday, I’m not sure what kind of conditions we’ll find but I’ll be there for anyone who wants to run. I checked the trail on Friday and there was a fair amount of ice but the course should avoid any serious water crossings even after a rain.
Next week, plan to meet at the Trailside museum. I’m not sure what trails will be our best bet but we’ll have fun.
On Sunday, February 17 at 8:00 am, meet at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation at the Michigan Road parking lot (see map) for a six-mile loop that is designed to take us on some trails we haven’t been on before. We’ll take in the view from the Overlook and follow a new trail the parks department has made over Dancing Rock without having to backtrack. You can view a map of the course here.
Next week, we’ll be starting from Leonard Park in Mount Kisco on the trails of Marsh Sanctuary, Merestead, Butler Sanctuary. It’s an interesting change of pace.
This Sunday, February 10 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Lewisboro Town Park upper parking lot (see map) when we try out a new and unusual course that tests to see how far south we can go from the Town Park lot. This course is designed to get us south of Michigan Road and back in a narrow, vertical loop of a map. On the way, we’ll pass the Trailside Museum, Michigan Road, and the Meadow lot before we return up the BR trail.
Since there is quite a bit of snow on the trails, we have options to shorten the run to 3 miles, 4.5 miles or 5.5 miles depending on how difficult the going is. And if you want to bring that pair of show shoes you’ve been wanting to try out, now might be a good day. Just sayin’. See map page ›› | Download PDF ››
This Sunday, February 3 at 8:00 a.m., meet at the Meadow Parking Lot and rise to the challenge of the second annual Looper Bowl. Follow the loop course, water crossings, mud flats, sand hill and all. Relive the excitement of the Leatherman’s Loop but with the possibility of snow. For those wanting to keep their feet dry, there are optional detours to avoid all the water crossings but, sorry, not the mud flats. You’ll probably want to bring an extra pair of shoes to change into after the run—might be a little, er, muddy.
Next week we’ll be meeting at the Lewisboro Town Park for a the Town to Michigan run.