Trail jogging in the Highland Lakes
Running and jogging in the Highland Lakes means more than hitting the pavement. Here, you also can hit the trail!
Trail-running opportunities include the Lower Colorado River Authority’s Muleshoe Bend Recreational Area, which sports more than seven miles of trails. l
Inks Lake State Park has a network of trails worth exploring at a nice jog. The 7.5 miles of trails were expanded last year to include even more of the beautiful Highland Lakes countryside that runs along Inks Lake.
You can even jog the back country of Pedernales Falls State Park and Colorado Bend State Park. About 32 miles of hiking trails are available through slow-moving water and beautiful canyon lands.
A newer addition to the nicely maintained Hill Country running trails is Reveille Peak Ranch, 105 CR 114 in Burnet. Bikers and runners have access to miles of trails at Reveille Peak, which organizes runs throughout the year. Here are a few of the races coming this spring:
• April 20, Bluebonnet Adventure Race
• May 18-19, Texas Spartan Spring
• June 2, Rogue Running Trail Series
For details and more races, check out the ranch’s website.
Jogging a trail is much better on the joints than running on pavement or concrete. But before heading for the great outdoors, make sure you have the right shoes. You will need footwear with enough support and traction to facilitate jumping and running on uneven surfaces.
It’s usually best to run with a companion when on an isolated trail. Also, plan to run slower than when on a flat surface. You’ll get the same health benefits because you’ll be working harder, but you won’t cover as much ground.
Choose your trails wisely and always let the park ranger know you’re there.
Happy running!
