Into the Woods: Trail Running for Newbies

Into the Woods: Trail Running for Newbies

Into the Woods is a four-week trail running series held on Thursdays from June 6 to June 25. Sessions last 90 minutes and are designed for runners who can comfortably complete a continuous 30-to-45-minute outdoor run, roughly 3 miles. The program meets at four different local locations: Fishers Fire House (Auburn trail to Fishers Park), Powder Mills Park, Ellison Park (or Powder Mills Park if Ellison is flooded), and Mendon Ponds.

Each session includes dynamic warm-ups, guided run segments at individualized paces, skill focus drills such as hill technique, footwork, and trail awareness, plus stretching and cool-downs. The series also covers gear suggestions and safety guidance for trail running. Participants receive a pair of trail socks and additional gifts from Rochester Running Company.

The series is presented in a supportive, no-pressure format with practical lessons intended for repeated use on trails. It is an introduction to trail running rather than a learn-to-run program; a basic continuous running ability is a stated prerequisite. Registration opens March 10 and closes June 4. The listed registration fee is $60. The instructor has long-distance trail experience and is completing a UESCA ultramarathon coaching certification. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.