Rain + Dirt = Mud

I wrote about running in the rain a few weeks ago, before it actually started raining. This week, the forecast is for some more actual rain, maybe even more than we had overnight this past Saturday. Since you all know how to run in the rain now, another fun topic is where to run.

During some years when we've had some fairly heavy rain for a day or two (heavy for here, anyway - my friends and family living on the east coast or in the southeast scoff at us), I've enjoyed running on the Bay Farm Island path because there are a few places where it floods. Water gets to be about 3 or 4 inches deep, and there's no way around. So, of course, the only solution is to splash right through, which is actually fun. Especially when you continue onward with a "squish, squish, squish" from your soaked shoes.

Another fun place to run when it's wet is the trail along the shore of the Bay between the San Leandro Marina and the interpretive center next to Highway 92. I used to run my longer runs there, as it's about a 7-mile stretch one way. Much of the trail is dirt/gravel, so it has a more rural feel to it. If you're a birder, there are many opportunities to check species off on your list. I once saw a vulture flying over with what looked like a golf ball in its beak - someone else's egg, I presume.

Speaking of dirt/gravel trails, when it finally rains after a long dry spell, some of the trails in the nearby hills can be excellent places to run. It's tricky to find the trails that just absorb the moisture rather than turn into ridiculously slippery mud baths, but when you do, it's awesome! Most people won't choose trails after (or during!) a rain, so it's usually deserted. A lot of wildlife is a lot less afraid of a little rain than we are, so you're likely to see more deer, turkeys, jackrabbits, cottontails, etc. than when the trails are bustling with humans.

My favorite trail run in the rain is the basic loop around Lake Chabot. Nearly half the route is paved, but the rest of it holds up quite well when it rains - some is on fire road and the single-track parts seem geologically suited to support wet weather use. It's about 9 miles around, with lots of hills, so it's not for beginners, but it's great fun to run in the rain.

If you do go for a run in the rain, just be sure to have some warm, dry clothes to put on afterward. If you're driving somewhere to run, bring a towel or two with you, too, to get the mud off so you don't wreck the interior of your car....

What is your favorite rain course?


Marty Beene, Owner of Be The Runner, holds certifications from USA Track & Field (Level 2 Endurance Coach) and from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (Personal Trainer, Fitness Nutrition and Senior Fitness Specialist). He coaches adult runners of all abilities individually and in groups. This blog post is being posted both on the Alameda Patch and at Marty's blogspot site. He will be running in the rain this week.