Patch Picks: Top Running Spots in Ridgefield

Now that the snow is gone, it’s time to breathe some fresh air again.  But with Ridgefield’s notoriously narrow and curvy roads, where can you run or walk without risking your life?  Below are a few great options:

• Rail Trail

One of Ridgefield’s running treasures, the Rail Trail offers a long out-and-back route with nice scenery and little exposure to cars.  Built in 2000 by CL&P on an abandoned rail corridor, this 2.4-mile path begins at Prospect Street and continues to Florida Road near Branchville.  There are several points where it intersects with roads, allowing runners to exit and enter based on their needs.  The trail’s flat, gravel surface is also very forgiving on the knees. 

• Ridgefield Recreation Center Woodland Walk

The Recreation Center paved the remainder of its trails last year, creating a 1.2-mile loop that snakes in and out of the wetlands.  The path is good for those who prefer a more solid, stable surface.  Note: the trail is fairly popular, so be prepared to say hello to familiar faces many times during the course of your run.

• Ridgefield High School XC trails

The High School Cross Country trails are perhaps Ridgefield’s best kept running secret.  The varied terrain includes hills, trees, secluded paths, and a bridge.  The outside perimeter is 1.8 miles, and forms a continuous loop.  There is also a new stretch of cinder path that runs from the top of Tiger Paw Hill to the tennis courts.  The competitive course is 5000 meters, and starts and ends on the upper field, opposite the JV softball diamond. 

• Ridgefield High School Track

Tracks are great for speed workouts, or for those looking to run a precise distance.  For an intense session, consider doing some fast repeats at the high school track after a loop around the XC perimeter trail.

• Woodcock Nature Center trails

WNC has a series of groomed trails that are perfect for running, walking and hiking.  These trails will be a key component of the 2^nd annual “Where the Wild Things Run” 5k race on May 1.  For race details, including a course map, visit the events tab at http://woodcocknaturecenter.org.

• Bennett’s Pond

Bennett’s Pond offers another cross-country-style running/hiking option for those who prefer peace and quiet.  The paths are well maintained, and there is an easy-to-read map at the trailhead.  Entrance located on Bennett’s Farm Road, a short distance from Rte. 7.  For the official trail map, visit http://www.rosaopenspace.org/news/trailsopen.html.

• Main Street

Starting at Ballard Park, head towards the intersection of Main St. & Route 116.  Once there, turn around and head back towards the fountain.  Continue past the fountain, turn around at the end of the sidewalk, and return to Ballard Park.  Total distance: 2.5 miles.

If you are more of a social runner, there are several organized group runs in town: 

• Kilometers shoe store leads a weekly running group along the rail trail every Thursday at 8:45 a.m.  Stop by the store to find out more; take advantage of their personalized fitting service while you are there.  Kilometers is located at 590 Danbury Rd., #12.  (203) 438-5056
• Wolfpit running club members meet at the Ridgefield Playhouse parking lot every Saturday and Sunday at 8 a.m.  Routes vary, but they are always interesting, and there is safety in numbers!  www.wolfpitrunningclub.org.
• The Ridgefield Recreation Center is offering a “learn to jog” program for beginner runners.  The class will take place Wednesdays from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on the Rec. Center path.  The session runs April 6-June 1 (no class 4/20), and costs $104 for members/$129 for non-members.  Drop in rate is $18. For more information contact the instructor at deb@beyondbabyfitness.com. 

There are also many great local races throughout the year. Visit www.hitekracing.com/calendar for a full list and for registration information.  Upcoming local races include:

• Running For Life 5k.  Saturday, April 23 at 10 a.m. (Danbury)
• Woodcock “Where the Wild Things Are” 5k.  Sunday, May 1 at 9 a.m. (Ridgefield)
• Run Like a Mother 5k.  Sunday May 8 at 9 a.m. (Ridgefield)
• First Annual Matrix 5k.  Thursday, May 19 at 5:30 p.m. (Danbury)
• Hearts, Hands & Feet for Haiti 5k.  Sunday, May 22 at 9 a.m. (Ridgefield)
• RES PTA 5k Raccoon Fun Run & Walk.  Saturday May 28 at 8:45 a.m. (Redding)
• Get Smart for Wilton 5k.  Sunday May 29 at 9 a.m. (Wilton)
• Georgetown Gallop 5k.  Sunday, June 12 at 10:30 a.m. (Wilton)
• Father’s Day 5k Run/Walk and Fun Run to Benefit Troop 431.  Sunday, June 19 at 8 a.m. (Ridgefield)

Welcome, Spring!