Thursday Carderock Run
On Thursday nights (April 8 - September 2 in 2010) we run on the C&O Canal towpath and, if desired, nearby trails, beginning at Carderock. It's only minutes off the beltway - very convenient to down-county. (Consider the Needwood runs if you're up-county.) The Carderock scenery is great and the towpath is softer than asphalt. If you stay on the towpath, trail shoes are fine but not necessary, as there are no huge boulders that will spring up to surprise you - though geese and their goslings are an occasional obstacle. Be prepared for puddles and mud during the rain - yes, we go during the rain, too! If you enjoy trail running, some of the runners veer off into the adjoining hiking trails (like the Valley Trail and the Gold Mine Loop) after about 2 miles on the towpath. These are excellent for running and have some gentle hills.
We run at all paces, generally for an hour or slightly longer (usually 4-8 miles depending on pace). Runs are can be out-and-back on the towpath, so it's easy to shorten the distance if necessary. If you want to run on the trails, there are a couple of nice loop options from 6.5 to 8 miles in length, We meet at 6:30pm at the Carderock Recreational Area. Bathrooms are at the start/end and along the towpath. Please carry water to keep hydrated - it can get hot out there.
Directions: Take the Beltway to the last Maryland exit ("Carderock/Great Falls"), go one mile and exit at Carderock, turn left after the Stop sign, and follow the twisty road into the park. At the T, turn right and then immediately left into the parking lot.
The run was started by Cathy Blessing but is now coordinated by Bob Yarchoan; you can send an e-mail to Bob if you have any questions.