Trail Running the Big Gunpowder Falls Wildlands Loop

Who is up for a challenge? :-)

Trying to up my game a bit and add some trail running to my hikes. My plan is to try and maintain an average speed of 4.5mph for the duration of the run. For comparison a brisk hike on this trail is about 3mph.

This is an excellent trail for running. There are few areas with rocks and roots that can twist an ankle though.

Wildlands map:
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/pdfs/GFSP_big2.pdf

Meet at the lower (North) parking lot at Gunpowder lodge, closest to the river.

Wildlands is a ~4.5 mile loop that starts with a flat 1.5 mile path along the river then turns up hill for a gradual approx 250 foot total ascent over about 3 miles. The last 1/4 mile is a down hill sprint that dumps you out at the trail head.

We will step off EXACTLY at 6:00. If you are late, txt me at 301-6five5-5327. We have no margin in this schedule since the sun is setting earlier every day. I recommend bringing a small flashlight in case we get slowed down.

This is a rain or shine event.

Bug spray and long hiking pants are highly recommended!

If you cannot attend please change your RSVP. Two no-shows will result in me asking you to remove yourself from future events that have a wait list.

Dogs are welcome but they must be well behaved! I don't care if you let them off leash but you must be able to control them verbally or with an e-collar. If they trip someone up or act out I will ask you to put them on leash.

This is cross posted with the 20s and 30s hiking around Baltimore meetup group.

If the group wants we can go to Gunpowder Lodge for dinner afterward. But I recommend Best Margerita pizza a few miles North.

I recommend bringing some clean shoes and a dry shirt to change into after the run.