Pain meets Pleasure: Summer Trail Running in the Wissahickon
by Melissa Field

The June heat wave came upon us in one crushing blow.  Running through the city never seemed so excruciating—the perspiration, the piercing sun, the thick air, and oh those sidewalk vents shooting hot and humid air!

As Philadelphia runners, we suffer through our fair share of annoyances.  We cut through strolling pedestrians, we dodge small dogs, and we tolerate the "Are you crazy?" shouts from our fellow urban dwellers.  But sometimes all that zigzagging, in conjunction with the heat, is enough to make you want to throw in your sweaty towel.

            So why not give it up and head for the hills?  The Wissahickon hills, of course.  In 15 minutes or less, Regional Rail can pull you away from city traffic and place you on a forgiving dirt path.  Your senses and feet will thank you.

Weekend rates put a roundtrip ticket from Center City to the Wissahickon R6 stop at six dollars.  Six dollars will buy you some much-needed peace and quiet.  The short trip means you can even make it home in time for Sunday brunch.

Trail running shoes are always a plus, but your regular running shoes will work just fine on these well-groomed trails.  A tranquil running environment will also offset the added challenge of trail running.  If you're new to trail running, be prepared for some long, steep climbs and sharp descents.  The hills offer a chance to focus on form rather than speed, and they will also improve your fitness level dramatically. 
Bounding across rocks and trees instead of through steamy vents and people is a blast.  If you're anything like me, you'll begin to feel a little like Robin Hood in Sherwood Forest.  It is always a good idea, when heading for the hills, to run with other people and to map out a trail ahead of time.  If you are in need of a group and a map, check out:

- Wissahickon Wanderers Maps
-Trailrunner.com-PA
-Fairmount Park Commision
-Friends of the Wissahickon

Trail running is a great way to spice up your summer running routine and once you adapt to training on trails, try a local trail race.  You may not snag a PR but on unforgiving hot and humid days, putting PR ambitions aside for the pure enjoyment of the great outdoors might just be a better use of time.