Running Indoors at the Basin Rec Fieldhouse

I hate running indoors. But I hate running in the cold even more. And it can get cold here in the winter.

So, in preparation for the Canyonlands Half Marathon coming up on March 19, 2011, I've had to learn to deal with running inside. Thankfully, Basin Rec Fieldhouse has an indoor track. And it's really not that bad.

The 1/9 mile (9 laps == 1 miles) track features two lanes. There are digital clocks that display seconds in two of the corners so you can time yourself. 1 lap per minute == a nine minute mile (approx. 6.7 mph). They alternate the direction you run daily -- one day is clockwise, then the next is counterclockwise. [Although I have seen people turn the sign when no one else is running if they want to go a particular direction.] Walkers are asked to stay to the outside so runners can pass them on the inside. It usually works out fairly well.

And if you get dizzy on the the track, there are several treadmills you can use.

I've spent my share of time on both the track and the treadmills this winter. But without them there's no way I'd be in shape for the 2011 Canyonlands Half Marathon this weekend.

Where do you run in the winter?

Jeremy Ranch to Kimball Junction via the Millenium Trail

Looking for someplace safer than the sides of the road to run this winter? Check out the Millennium Trail. This paved trail runs along side the frontage road on the south side of I-80. Eventually it will run all the way into Park City. But right now, the stretch from Jeremy Ranch to Kimball Junction is plowed (except for a tiny stretch between Ruby Tuesday's and Walmart) and snow free. This provides a great place to run that is safer than the snow-covered shoulder of a road. And it's great for baby joggers or roller blading too.

You can park either near the Fresh Market at the Jeremy Ranch exit or near the Walmart at the Kimball Junction/Park City exit. It's just over 2 miles from one end to the other. And, as the snow melts, you'll be able to run farther towards Gorgoza Park or Park City.

Get out and enjoy this great weather!

Thanks to the good folks at Basin Recreation for all their work creating and maintaining these trails.

Early Snow 10/11

Mother Nature treated us to a little early snow today. Not quite enough to open the resorts, but not bad for October. Just enough to get everyone excited. It's a sure sign that winter's on its way.




(Early snow in Park City.)

Get your skis and snowboards ready!

'til later,
- Jeff