After running my third trail race which happened to be 10 miles—I can honestly say I really prefer trail running over road running. And to be fair, I haven’t done a ton of road races, but something about being out in nature just does it for me.
My last race was wild. Rainy, windy, muddy, slippery—you name it. There was over 1,800 feet of elevation and still… I had a great time, especially running with my friend Wendy. Don’t get me wrong, it was definitely challenging, but it was also fun and super rewarding. I mean, running through the woods, soaked and smiling? That’s a different kind of joy.
One of the things I love about trail running is that I don’t feel pressure to keep a certain pace. It’s more about how I feel, staying present, and just getting through the course. The terrain keeps you focused and grounded. You have no choice but to pay attention to where your feet are landing. Every hill, every turn, every root or rock keeps it interesting.
People like myself enjoy trail running for a mix of physical, mental, and emotional reasons that go beyond just getting a workout. Here are some of the top reasons trail running is so loved:
If you haven’t tried trail running I recommend you give it a try at least once.
1. Connection to Nature
Trail running gets you off the pavement and into the woods, mountains, or open fields. It’s a chance to unplug from screens, breathe fresh air, and be surrounded by nature—which is calming and restorative in itself.
2. Mental Escape
The trails force you to be present. Watching your footing, navigating elevation, and soaking in the scenery creates a natural meditative flow. It’s a great way to de-stress and clear your mind.
3. Less Pressure on Pace
Unlike road races where runners are often fixated on pace and time, trail running is more about effort and endurance. The terrain is unpredictable, so runners usually give themselves grace and focus on the journey, not just the clock.
4. Full-Body Challenge
Trail running engages more muscles due to hills, uneven ground, and quick adjustments. You’re working on strength, agility, and balance along with cardio.
5. Adventure & Exploration
Every trail run can feel like an adventure—new views, new challenges, and a sense of discovery. It keeps things interesting and fresh.
6. Supportive Community
Trail running communities are often known for being welcoming, encouraging, and low-key. It’s less about competition and more about shared experience.
7. Lower Impact on Joints
Running on dirt, grass, or rocky terrain is generally easier on the joints than pounding pavement, which helps reduce the risk of injury.
Check out my video about my recent 10 mile trail run experience. Be sure to also check out Sassquad Trail Running. They host awesome trail run events.
