You want something different? Are you ready to try the path less traveled?
INTRODUCTION TO TRAIL & ULTRA RUNNING
6 Week Program
If you are ready to take your running off pavement, but need some help on how to get started this program is for you. Even those that are comfortable with trail running, and are interested in discovering new local trails will benefit. We return for our third annual summer LEAP-Coaching Connecticut Trail Running Introduction Series. The 6 week program has been developed for trail runners of all levels, with each week covering a different topic and explores different trails in Southeastern Connecticut. We will cover trail running in general, and explain the differences between road running and trail running. We will cover training approach, trail safety, navigation, how to find trails, local trail running clubs/community, etc. Each session will consist of a 15 minute discussion led by either Coach LaBranche or a guest. We will meet at a local trail head Tuesday evenings starting June 29th at 6PM to 8PM.

Tuesday June 29th, 2021 6PM – 8PM
Where: Nehantic, Lyme ConnecticutParking at end of Holmes Road (limited to <10 cars). Parking is within 200 meters after the road transitions from asphalt to dirt.
Distance: ~6 Miles
Description: Entirely on dirt / gravel fire road. Most of the run is part of the Goodwin Trail. Flats and some mildly long rolling hills. Mild technical. Run is an out & back.
Topics:
- Trail Safety: Hydration, Rocks, Branches, Animals, Bugs (ticks), Poison Ivy, etc
- Trail Etiquette: Music, Bathroom breaks, Trespassing

Tuesday July 6th, 2021 6PM – 8PM
Where: Hatch Lot with Dean Easement, East Haddam, ConnecticutParking: Hatch Lot Trailhead parking lot off of Mill Road (limited to 8 – 10 Cars)
Distance: 5.5 Miles
Description: Mostly single track, with some old fire road (<0.5mile) and dirt road (<1 mile). Trail is mildly to moderate technical. A mix of flat terrain and rolling. Some steep ascents. Vista view. Strava with downloadable .gpx available here
Topics:
- Trail Navigation: How to find your way around trails

Tuesday July 13th, 2021 6PM – 8PM
Where: Beckett Hill State Preserve, Lyme Connecticut
Parking: First Parking Lot on Kenny Road (entering from Northeast side of park)Distance: 4.2 Miles
Description: Single track trail with fairly little flat. Challenging long rolling hills. Trail is Moderately Technical (lots of rocks & roots). Strava with downloadable .gpx available here.Topics:
- How to find trails and ultra races

Tuesday July 27th, 2021 6PM – 8PM
Where: Hartman Preserves, Lyme ConnecticutParking on Gungy Road at Park Entrance (limited to ~ 10 cars)
Distance: 4.3 Miles
Description: Single track with flat and rolling sections. Trail is mildly to moderate technical (short ascent section is boulder hoping, hands on rock). Strava and downloadable .gpx is available here.
Topics:
- Differences between Trail and Road Running: Cadence, Terrain, Elevation

Tuesday August 3rd, 2021 6PM – 8PM
Where: Mount Archer Woods and Pickwick’s Preserve, Lyme ConnecticutParking: Mount Archer Woods, off Mount Archer Road, most direct route is via Route 156. 2nd parking lot is 200 meters down the road, opposite side. Refer to map.
Distance: 5-6 Miles
Description: Single track trail with fairly lengthy out and back hill towards Pickwick’s Preserve.. Trail is Mild to Moderate Technical.
Topics:
- Overview of Trail Runner Specific Strength Training

Tuesday August 10th, 2021 6PM – 8PM
Where: Oswegatchie Hills Nature Preserve, Niantic ConnecticutParking: Plenty.
Distance: 6.2 Miles
Description: Mostly single track, with some old fire road (<1 mile). Trail is moderately technical, with brief periods of extreme technical (boulder hoping). A mix of flat and rolling terrain. Long climb back from the river (view). Optional quick dip in the river. Strava and downloadable .gpx is available here.
Topics:
- What trail and ultra clubs and social group exist in the region