Area Specific Training Tips

The biggest thing I can say is that though the rail trails are terrific traffic-free and scenic running routes they do have a drawback here. They either go up at a constant grade (Iron Horse if starting from Rattlesnake Lake) or they go down at a constant grade (Snoqualmie Valley Trail). So if you're parking at the lake you end up with an uphill first half of your run with a much easier (and much faster) downhill half - and vice versa for the Sno-Valley trail. I feel doing this every day is not necessarily good for training, so I alternate by running the Sno-Valley trail one day and the Iron horse another. I'll throw in some Lake Loops for a rolling course. Sometimes I wish there was a flat or at least rolling trail system up here!

Dangers! In the years I've been running (and riding) up here I've come across a lot of wildlife, people, etc. The bears I've come across always run away when they see me coming. The elk I can outwait or skirt around if they don't feel like moving. The deer run away and circle back to watch. The cougars just watch - I've never seen one up here (but I know those who have). What I have the most trouble with is DOGS - or rather their inconsiderate owners. Both the Sno-Valley trail and the Iron Horse trail are leash-law trails. However it's the rare dog that is on a leash. I've been bitten, knocked over, chased, harassed, tripped, jumped on, and licked by dogs here. Don't get me wrong - the vast majority of the dogs and owners are responsible and law-abiding. But it doesn't take too many of the other sort to ruin your day.

The rail trails are very well maintained, smooth, and even. You won't need trail running shoes, so save them for the hard core stuff

If it is very windy - typically in the fall this happens - find another place to run. People have been killed up here by falling branches! We get some serious wind storms!

Bring your own water for longer runs - there are no fountains on the trails! Also if you're nervous about using plant life for TP, or if it is winter and there are no leaves, bring some easily biodegradeable TP with you in a zip-lock bag. Make sure and dig a 'cat hole' for your deposit please (and cover up afterward)!

Spring and fall tip! Wear sunglasses or clear glasses! We get clouds of gnats (or some such fly) that WILL get in your eyes and mouth. They're easy enough to spit out, but once in your eye they (or their parts) can bother you for the rest of your run.