Brown's Valley Open Space Trail Run: 4.6 miles @ 10:38 (+/- 1500')
After running Cold Creek yesterday, I was reminded just how amazing trail running can be. Inspired, I decided to do my 1st 1/2 of today's double on the trails by my house in the nearby Open Space District. Two peaks site separated by a valley with technical single track circling the whole space and ridge trails connecting the two. With today's temps absolutely straight from a fall catalog, I couldn't resist. Taking pictures slowed me down, but I figure I could handle the ego hit by posting a slower running pace
MB Jump the gate (legal access) and head up a nice hard packed single track contouring to the north around to the backside of Peak #1:
From here it is a small draw and meadow:
Once out of the draw you gain the ridge leading to the peak:
At the top, there is a bench and picnic table for those inclined to rest. The view isn't too shabby as well
That is Peak#2 in the distance.
From here you head down the ridge to the south towards Peak#2. On the way down, I jumped a coyote. I tried to get a pic but he was too fast for me. I did get a picture of the local single track trail crew relaxing in the valley before heading up to Peak#2:
Jump a fence and pick up a bitchin single track on the other side:
Up a short draw passing an isolated oak that guards the ridge:
Once on the ridge, you hit fun stretch before the 20% grade up the backside to the top:
Once at the top, it is a steep descent to a dirt road that weaves its way down to the side of the Open Space:
Once down you negotiate some pretty technical single track sections due to the cows stepping on soft ground after rains. You have to watch your step to avoid turning/breaking your ankles!
Fortunately the section is short lived and it is back to perfect single track before the .25 miles of pavement back home:
