Lost at Northshore
Posted on 05. Oct, 2006 by Brad in Training
Surface: Dirt
Mileage: 7
Shoes: Montrail Hardrock
I finally made it out to the Northshore Trail at Grapevine Lake … and after wandering around for a bit, I made it back to where I started. Yes, I got lost on a training run. Originally I had intended to go about a mile further than I did, but I somehow couldn’t figure out how to get to the MADD Shelter heading north. So instead of a 9 mile training run, I wound up with 7.
I wound up at the intersection of Sentinel Oaks Dr and Three Bridges Dr. I turned around and went back down the asphalt and headed towards the lake. After staying left, however, it seemed like I was at a dead end. I could see the small marina to my left but didn’t understand how the trail could wind around near the beach. After a steep climb back up, I walked back to what seems like a parking area in front of some restrooms. There were two pairs of boots strung over a powerline. I’m sure regulars on the trail know exactly where this is. I suspect that I needed to stay right along the asphalt to continue on the right path. I did see two bikers coming from somewhere and I’m guessing that’s where.
It was nice to be back on a true trail and I am happy about my decision to venture out there even on a very hot 90+ degree day. I did take my new handheld amphipod water bottle that is totally easy to carry and not distracting. In the past I have tried handheld bottles and found them unconfortable and irritating. This puppy does the trick. The one thing I need to improve is bringing two along next time. With the heat and the “detour”, I could have used more fluids getting back to my truck.
I like this trail because it has enough scenery and trail changes to be interesting. In ways it reminded me of the days I used to run along the Greenbelt near downtown Austin. This is definitely a trail I will return to in the future. It is much more runnable than the bike trails at L.B. Houston park, though I will have to work on figuring out the path all the way to the 9-mile turnaround point.
A few training notes: I didn’t have as much discomfort in my feet mainly due to the varied terrain. When you have to work on footing, the use of so many different muscles in the lower legs keeps the feet guessing exactly how they will land. I can see how it would be pretty easy to face plant due to the roots and rocks. :-)
