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On the trail

Terrain, weather and preparing to head off-road.

30 articles
A headlamp lights a broad woodland trail at dusk.
On the trail

Make your first night trail a familiar route

For a first night trail, keep the route familiar and the return short. Darkness is already a new variable; you do not need to add unfamiliar junctions or difficult ground.

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A group of runners waits together at a trail junction.
On the trail

Keep a group together at junctions

A group can separate at a junction even when the runners are only moments apart. Make waiting at a turn an agreed action rather than an assumption.

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A runner uses a phone beside a pack and route map at home.
On the trail

Tell someone where your trail outing is going

A useful route message tells someone what you intend to do and what to expect if plans change. It should be understandable without access to your running app.

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An open trail pack with clothing and emergency equipment.
On the trail

Pack for a delayed return rather than an ideal outing

A kit list based only on a smooth outing can leave awkward gaps when progress slows. Think through a delayed return while you still have time to change the route and packing.

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A runner takes a compact jacket from a trail vest.
On the trail

Practise taking out your jacket before rain arrives

Practising with a jacket is mainly a packing exercise. Find out what must move before the jacket comes out, while the ground is dry and the light is good.

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Folded running poles secured against a trail pack.
On the trail

Store folded poles without leaving loose straps

Folded poles need a carrying position that stays secure when you move and does not interfere with other people. Test both the storage and the act of putting them away.

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A runner slows to walk on rough woodland steps.
On the trail

Recognise when a runnable path becomes a hike

A route can stop being a running route for you without changing its name. Recognise the point where walking becomes the appropriate way to assess and continue—or to turn back.

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Route planning materials beside a transport timetable and pack.
On the trail

Plan a point-to-point trail with a return option

A point-to-point trail has two routes to plan: the one you run and the one that gets you home. Test the second before committing to the first.

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Mud covers the uppers and laces of two outdoor shoes.
On the trail

Check footwear and kit after a muddy trail

A muddy outing ends with a useful inspection opportunity. Remove enough dirt to see the equipment, then separate ordinary cleaning from anything that needs repair.

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Two trail participants wearing hydration vests stand together outdoors.
On the trail

Choose a trail companion and agree the plan

Choosing a trail companion is partly about agreeing on the outing. Similar running speed helps less than a shared understanding of the route, stops and willingness to change plans.

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