4 Things to Expect at Trail Races.

I don’t know about you, but as mostly a road racer (so much so that my trail buddies actually call me ‘roadie’) it can be refreshing sometimes to get off the beaten path and do a trail race. Here are just a few things to expect when you are racing in the dirt.

1. Awesome aid stations. Watermelon, pickles and peanut m&ms…oh my! Nowhere else will you find the best snacks all in one spot. The amount of goodies at trail races can be quite overwhelming, honestly. But be sure to try a little bit of everything. Potatoes with salt? LOL, don’t mind if I do.

2. The most down to earth people around. Forget the typical type A, pace obsessed road racer. These people are not only the best at camping (and are always fully prepared) but they are typically very laid back and fun folks to be around.

3. The most CHILL start and finish lines around. Sure, a huge race like the New York or Chicago marathon can be fun with the crazy amount of spectators. But if you are in search of a more intimate experience, trail races may just be your thing. There will be no gun that goes off, either. Just a ‘ready set go!’ from the the director and you are rocking and rolling.

4. Amazing terrain and a great time to immerse yourself into nature. Shake things up a bit with beautiful hill climbs and being surrounded by trees. Just watch your step and stay alert for those rocks and roots. Hey…if you are on the fence about doing a trail race, I say just bite the bullet and sign up for one. You may find out that you just might like it and fall in love! Or, just fall and face plant? LOL. it’s all a part of trail racing.

What are some things you enjoy about getting off the beaten path?