Why I chose the Cloudsurfer to train for a trail ultra

At Terra, we consider the On Cloudsurfer a lower stability shoe when compared to other On models. This is because it lacks the typical Speedboard found in every other model of On shoes. I needed a new road shoe since I have a goal of running a trail ultramarathon in September. I wanted a shoe that could train me for the trails even when I mostly run roads. Because it is very bouncy, the Cloudsurfer is less stable with its soft cushion and lack of Speedboard to provide any sort of rigidity. While that might sound like a bad thing, this is as close as I can get to simulating the uneven terrain of a trail while on the road. Training the ankles for rolling or wobbly motion is essential for a more secure and confident run on the trail. The Cloudsurfer utilizes a new cushioning technology created by On called CloudTec Phase; this technology gives the Cloudsurfer a very soft, plushy ride. The CloudTec Phase design works by collapsing the cushioning as you step down in the shoe and expanding the foam up in a forward rolling motion, propelling heel strikers forward. Midfoot and toe strikers benefit less from the rolling motion, feeling more of a spring than a forward roll. While neither of these functions quite mimics the trail, they do give a bouncy ride. I have now put around 70 miles of running on the shoes and strikingly my lower calf has become increasingly tight and irritated. While everyone’s foot reacts to shoes differently, I do attribute this tightness to the Cloudsurfers. Thinking critically about the design of the shoes, I am under the impression that due to the incredible softness under the heel, the shoe actually compresses more toward the heel side than desired. For me, this effect causes an over-extension of the Achilles and a prolonged tension on the lower calf. I have had to switch out to different shoes due to this strain. My hope is that this, too, simulates climbing up the mountains of a trail run. Overall, I really like the shoes, but only for runs less than 8 miles. For customers, I would recommend this shoe to a neutral runner who wants a fun bouncy shoe for 5k distances.

Local Spotlight: Enterprise South Nature Park

We know y'all are always on the hunt for new territory to walk and run. One of our staff's favorite locations is Enterprise South Nature Park! Located off the Volkswagen Drive exit on I-75, the park consists of 2800 acres of natural forests, with miles of trails, picnic areas, water features, and overlooks. About a 20-25 minute drive from downtown Cleveland, Enterprise is only about 10-15 minutes beyond Johnston Woods.

The trails are popular with bikers, runners, and walkers. There are varying levels of trail difficulty: if you're looking for a leisurely walk, a comfortable training run, or a hilly workout, you can find the right route at Enterprise. Trail names, distances, and intensity are well marked and color-coded on maps at the trailheads and along the trails.

I especially appreciate the sections of mulched trail, which can provide some much-needed soft surface after long miles on the pavement. If I'm doing more than 4-6 miles, the extra driving time down to Enterprise is well worth it. Even though the trails are well-used, I often enjoy long stretches of quiet and solitude while out on the system. The trails are open from 7am to sundown, meaning that, especially in the summer, they can accommodate most schedules. Oh, and there are restrooms!

The land originally belonged to the United States Army, who used the area for ammunitions production. TNT storage facilities are scattered throughout (don't worry, they're no longer in use!). They can be helpful checkpoints along your run. The park itself has been open since 2010, serving both the Cleveland and Chattanooga communities. We hope to see you out there!

8015 Volkswagen Dr., Chattanooga, TN 37421

https://parks.hamiltontn.gov/148/Enterprise-South-Nature-Park

Try Out Trail Running at Johnston Woods

Fall is the perfect time for running. The weather is cooler, runs become easier and all of those blistering hot summer miles have given way to runs that feel effortless in comparison. Something else that many runners look forward to in the fall?

Trail running.

But why mix it up and get on the trails? Besides the beauty and calm of being in nature, especially in the fall season, trail running is inherently different than running on the roads.

Here are a few ways:

Pace

On trails, the terrain is ever-changing and elevation plays a key role in pace. One mile can’t be compared to the next, which is a great way to take the pressure off yourself if you’re often worried about pace while running roads. Walking uphills in trail races is totally acceptable! 

Terrain

Because the terrain does change so much — both in elevation as well as navigating over roots and rocks, etc. — the muscles used in trail running vary slightly more than road running alone. This is often not obvious until after a trail run and you realize that very specific parts of your legs, hips, even shoulders, feel sore even though you’ve been road running consistently with no previous soreness in those areas.

Routes

Because of the ease of road running, we often end up on the same routes run after run. With trail running you have to make the effort to go somewhere different to get off the beaten path (literally). While every run feels like an adventure, trail running ups the excitement and feels that much more satisfying when you finish.

Shoes

Trail shoes tend to be firmer, water resistant or waterproof, and have lugs with a harder, grippier rubber outsole for better grip off-road. Hiking or running on trails will be easier and you’ll feel more confident with trail shoes, but if you’re just starting out, wearing road shoes is an approachable alternative. Just be sure to watch your step and slow down! If you’re interested in taking the plunge and trying some trail shoes, Terra Running Co. sells trail specific models from Brooks, Hoka, Altra, On, and more.

Intrested in trying out, or getting back into, trail running? Why not check out Johnston Woods! Just 10 minutes south of downtown Cleveland it is a hidden gem in the woods. The 4.2 miles of trails are open to the public and fall is the perfect time to explore their beauty. 

This a favorite spot for Team Terra and is great for anyone who wants an escape to the woods without driving a half hour to larger trails. 

Although the trails sit on private property owned by Broad Street United Methodist Church, they are open to the public. According the Johnston Woods website, “It all started in the 1940’s when the Johnston’s family endowed 400 acres of beautiful wooded property.  In the 1980’s, Broad Street United Methodist Church transformed the beautiful property into a retreat and event center.  Since then our team has grown the property and it’s programs to enable a life changing impact for those who visit.” There is even a portable restroom in the parking lot now for the convenience of visitors. 

Due to its easy access and close proximity, Johnston Woods is an excellent place for both new and experienced runners to try out trail running. There are two trails to explore — the Blue and White loops. Both provide trail runners with a relatively flat, well marked trail. Be sure to keep an eye out for other runners, walkers, and bikers. When passing, say “On your left” loud enough for the person in front of you to hear, and if someone is trying to pass you, kindly step to the side of the trail. Pets on leashes are welcome and it’s a popular spot for mountain bikers (check out the Tuesday night mountain bike rides with Scott’s Bikes here. 

Try it out and let us know what you think! Check out the AllTrails page for Johnston Woods with maps and reviews here.

My First Ultramarathon Experience: The Leadville 100

August 18th I boarded my $30 one-way flight to Denver. I carried a tightly stuffed “personal item” backpack with my On Cloudultras tied to the outside. I had packed as lightly as possible to get the cheapest possible ticket from Knoxville. Andrew, a close friend of mine, was traveling with me, and we were both full of excitement for the adventure that awaited us. The Leadville 100 mile race is a famous trail ultrathon that traverses the Rocky Mountains in central Colorado, running out from the small town of Leadville (elevation 10,000 feet) into the mountains surrounding Mount Elbert all the way to Winfield, Colorado just farther than Hope Pass ( 12,500 feet) and then back to Leadville. Andrew and I were recruited by a runner friend of ours to crew for him during the course of the potentially 30-hour race. The Leadville 100 is well-known throughout the Ultrathon community for being a challenging high altitude race. It was originally one of the first ultrathons in America, and now it remains one of the most popular. Over 700 runners started the race this last August; only a little over 300 finished. Due to its popularity runners have to enter through a lottery system that makes it a little difficult to get in. Typically, runners will recruit teams to crew for them at the aid stations. There are four main aid stations along the course, Mayfield, Outwardbound, Halfpipe, and Twin Lakes. There are other aid stations but these four allow for the most crew. The there-and-back course is the hardest in between mile 43 and 56. This section forces you to climb up Hope Pass, descend down into the valley beyond it, turn around, and climb back over. The fastest runners can rarely pace faster than a fifteen minute mile on these climbs, and the average runner hopes for a forty minute pace. The Twin Lakes aid station is thus one of the most populated aid stations and the most essential for runners, as it is the last stop before the climb outbound and the symbol of achievement inbound. If they can return to Twin Lakes before the cutoff time, they most likely will finish the race. Every aid station has certain cutoff times, where if runners are even a few minutes too late, they will be unable to continue on. 

The elevation map shows how difficult the climb and descent is between Hope Pass.

The race began at 3am Saturday morning. The air was chilly but the atmosphere raged with excitement. Runners gave hugs to their crews and lined up in the downtown strip of Leadville. I stood a quarter mile down from the starting line, heard the shot, and watched as the huge mass of headlamps moved towards me in the midst of cheers from the crews. Several minutes passed until all 700 runners had gone by. Andrew and I, with the rest of the crew then loaded back in the car and took off towards Turquoise Lake where we could see the runner headlamps making their way towards the first aid station: Mayfield. Our runner kept on his pre-planned pace and was feeling good when we saw him. The aid station, however, developed a traffic jam of runners and so he waited in a line of runners until seeing us. He took off after the brief stop, making his way up a ridgeline and then descending back down to the Outwardbound aid station. He sped through this one, making up lost time from the earlier aid station. He reached the Twin Lakes aid station around 12:30. This is by far the largest aid station, and a city of tents formed around the trail so that it felt like we were a part of a festival. There was the constant sound of cheering from crews and spectators shouting “good job runner!” There were a variety of sponsor tents from brands like North Face and On. Some of these brands had pro runners competing in the race. Multiple times a runner would come in and immediately a videographer would begin interviewing them. Sometimes crews would prepare meals for their runners. I saw a runner eat a large bean, corn, and rice burrito, others had soup or even chicken. One runner came in, sat down, smoked a cigar, drank a beer, and then kept running. Some runners did not have crews and relied on the bananas and pizza at the aid station. One runner flew from Kenya for the race without a crew (he unfortunately did not finish). 

Hope Pass was the next climb after the Twin Lakes stop. The climb is brutal. On top of the pass, there was a little camp set up comprised of the burnt out runners and a few volunteers. There is no road up Hope Pass, so the volunteers use llamas to carry gear to the top. After a break there, the runners carefully descend down the backside to the Winfield aid station. No crews were allowed at this aid station. At this point our runners' phone and watch died. He asked the aid workers the time and then headed back up Hope Pass. At this point in the day, the fastest athletes had already made it back over Hope Pass, through Twin Lakes and the other aid stations and were nearing the finish. In fact, the fastest runner finished in sixteen hours. We, the crew, at Twin Lakes, watched these incredible athletes come through often very spread out. As the sun began to set we started to get nervous about our runner. The cutoff time to the Twin Lakes aid station was 10pm. We had texted with him earlier in the day, but now were hearing nothing about his ETA. I and one of the other crew members started jogging down the trail hoping to find him and encourage him on his way back. It was nearing 9:15 and we still had not sighted him, so we started jogging. Finally, as we came to the main river crossing on the course, we found him walking holding the rope across the river. We were thrilled to see him and tried to see if we could sprint back. Unfortunately, we were a mile and a half out and could only manage a twelve minute pace given his condition after Hope Pass. To say the least we were fifteen minutes too late and our runner had to stop at mile 62. This is not uncommon, however, and many runners decided to stay the night on Hope Pass knowing they missed the cutoff and fearing to descend in the dark. 

We decided to get a long nights rest and enjoy the mountains the next day. The Leadville 100 was an incredible experience for me as a crew member. I hope to crew again, however, after seeing so many incredible ultrathon runners, I have been inspired to run it myself one day. Fitness level is not necessarily the key to a successful Leadville 100; nutrition, rest, and altitude conditioning are equally important. One lady had flown from South Carolina two months in advance hoping to acclimate, and even she did not finish. This race is challenging, however, for crews and attempted finishers it felt entirely worth it. There is no shame in not finishing the Leadville 100, and there’s always next time. 

Trail Review: Bay Point Loop Trail at Harrison Bay

Harrison Bay State Park is a beautiful state park only 25 minutes from downtown Cleveland.  Harrison Bay became the first Tennessee State Park in 1937. Located in Hamilton County, the park name is derived from a large bay at the main channel of the Tennessee River that covers the old town of Harrison, and the last Cherokee Campground, according to the state park website. The parklands are historically significant because the Cherokee Campground consisted of three villages which were ruled by one of the last great Cherokee Chieftains. 

If you like to mountain bike, boat, swim, kayak, camp, trail run, or hike, this park is for you! On a warm May Saturday, I headed over to Harrison Bay with my trail running shoes and my kayak for a hot, sunny day outside! I ran the Bay Point Loop Trail, which is marked as 4.3 miles, but my GPS said it was only 3.8 miles. To access the trailhead, take a left at the Y inside the park and head toward the visitor center and marina. Pass the boat put-in and the trailhead is on your right. There is plenty of parking right at the trailhead, as well as a trash can and some park information. 

The Bay Point Loop Trail is a mostly-flat trail that is right by the water almost the entire time! The trails are similar in difficulty to Johnston Woods trails, mostly single-track with occasional roots and rocks. I loved that the trail was near the water because I caught cool breeze even though it was 80+ degrees outside! The dense tree cover also provides lots of shade. There were dogs, mountain bikes, and runners on this trail, but it never felt crowded. The trail didn't seem to cross any other trails, so following the red blazes on the trees was easy. I stopped to take a few pictures along the way, and at 3.8 miles I was pleasantly surprised to be done already! 

The entire loop only has 125 feet of ascent in elevation, so it's a relatively flat trail. There were two parts of the trail that were on a wooden boardwalk to keep people raised off the low lying muddy areas, but they were really well maintained and easy to navigate. 

I love that there are other outdoor activities to do at Harrison Bay that make the drive worthwhile. I followed up my run with a kayak on the water. Entrance to the park is free and it is much busier on weekends and in the summer.

I would highly recommend the Bay Point Loop Trail at Harrison Bay. I hope to visit again soon and try out mountain biking on this trail.

Trail Running at Johnston Woods?! Terra Girls Episode 4

This week Brittany and Tiff attempt to host the show while trail running at Johnston Woods. The result is: a) Mildly Informative; b) Hilarious; c) Chaotic; d) Ridiculous; e) All of the Above

*** Answer: e) All of the Above

Johnston Woods Backyard Ultra!

There are a lot of races on our calendar and, while we aren’t actually technically timing it due to the nature of the event, the Johnston Woods Backyard Ultra is something that we are excited to help promote and give to! As one of our favorite trail systems here in Bradley County, we love that Johnston Woods makes their trails open to the community despite being privately owned. We chatted with the Interim Director of Johnston Woods, Jenna Lofton, about Johnston Woods and the Backyard Ultra. Interested? Read on!

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Jenna Lofton. I am the Interim Director of Johnston Woods. I fell in love with the trails during the pandemic. I love running and biking the trails with my family. The summer of 2021, I started volunteering at Wonders in the Woods camps at Johnston Woods. The next thing I knew I was the director of a retreat center! I feel like the luckiest person in the world to go to work in such a beautiful, amazing setting and with incredible people and groups.

A lot of people in our community have heard about Johnston Woods but can you tell us a bit more about it?

If you haven't checked out our website, you need to! We have so much going on in the Woods. We have miles of public trails that are used for walking, running, and biking. Behind the gates, we are a retreat center, a wedding and event venue, and a summer camp. We host corporate events, parties, family reunions, and so much more. Churches and organizations come from all over the country to have retreats. We have award winning catering. We have two lakes on our 375 acres with miles and miles of private trails. We host an innovative and growing forest school called Woodsong Forest School. We have two large buildings, our rustic and historic Hurt Lodge and our new multipurpose Woodland Center. We have a large ballfield, 9 holes of disc golf, the famous Johnston Woods Lake dock, and 12 cabins. We located minutes from downtown Cleveland and Interstate 75 off at 298 Brymer Creek Road, McDonald.

The word "ultra" can strike fear in the heart of any runner! That being said, the Backyard Ultra is a little different. What is it and who is it for?

Ultra is an intimidating word, but we like to think of it as being the very best you can be. The race starts at 7 am. The runners will run the 4.2 mile course on the hour, every hour until they decide they are finished. They can rest, eat, and relax between laps. Yes, some of our runners have over 100 miles in a day but many racers are just testing their limits to see how far they can go. This race is for everyone who wants to push themselves to new accomplishments and reach new goals!

What can runners expect on race day?

The trail is a typical hiking trail lined with wildflowers, ferns, and creeks with the occasional fun obstacle of roots and rocks. There are engaging twists and turns and inclines all under a canopy of towering pine trees and hardwoods. Parking will be on the field behind the Woodland Center. Families and friends are welcome to come hang out on the ball field during the race. There will be limited indoor facilities, but we do have a few restroom options.

What should runners bring with them?

Runners should bring food and a refillable water bottle! We will have some snacks and food options and water a big dispenser for our registered racers. A headlight will be essential if running in the dark. Chairs and shade tents are welcome.

Anything else you would like readers (or possible runners!) to know?

This is a fundraiser race and all proceeds of this race will go to supporting the camps and work of Johnston Woods. We will be using the funds to help kids go to Wonder in the Woods camps.

Runners can sign up for the Backyard Ultra on Terra Running’s website or at johnstonwoods.org.

Running in a Tennessee Fall

It’s true, we have officially reached fall! Not only have we passed the Autumnal Equinox, the weather is cooler in the mornings, the days are starting to get shorter, and every store you go into is selling fake pumpkins and (fake) pumpkin flavors.

For runners, fall means delightfully pleasant temperatures and a chance to start wearing your favorite cold weather gear again… that is, if you don’t live in southeast Tennessee.

If you live here in Tennessee, your version of fall looks more like chilly mornings and crisp evenings with temps worthy of summer in the afternoon. Though I have lived in Tennessee for over a decade now, for this Maryland girl, the adjustment to a Tennessee “fall” is still difficult. I am thankful for the warmer days occasionally, but most of the time I’m just sad that the cozy sweater that I needed in the morning is unbearable by midday.

This extreme temperature fluctuation can also cause a dilemma for runners — hit the road in darkness and experience the joys of a 50 something degree run, or hold out for daylight and fight off 80 degree heat.

Regardless of when you are lacing up, let me offer some suggestions to get the most out of your run during a Tennessee fall.

Morning (Cooler Temp) Running —

We all know that hotter temperatures equal harder runs. Start out for a long run on a 90 degree day and you’ll know immediately that you’re in, not just for a long run, but a longgg run. The reason is that, beyond exerting for your workout, your body is also working overtime to maintain an acceptable core temperature. This means your heart will be beating harder and faster even at lower rates of exertion.

Why am I talking about running in hotter weather in the cooler weather section? Because the inverse is also true. Cooler weather means, “easier” runs. This is one of the reasons that everyone loves a fall race; all of those summer miles can easily add up to fall PRs.

With this in mind, those cooler mornings become the perfect time to practice tempos runs and speed work. Since your body won’t have to exert as much energy keeping you cool, it becomes easier to push your pace and build up strength in different muscle sets than what you would be working at a slower clip.

Try it — Set out for your normal training distance. After warming up for at least 5 minutes (on your run or otherwise), introduce simple speed work. Push yourself to (just below) sprint pace for 30 seconds, then scale back to your normal pace for a minute and 30 seconds before sprinting(ish) again for another 30 seconds. Repeat this pattern until you finish your run. Be sure to cool down and stretch adequately after you finish. Depending on your current fitness level, experiment with interval time and speed variations.

Afternoon (Hotter Temp) Running —

We’ve already established that hotter weather running is harder (and you didn’t need me to tell you that, you definitely already knew). So how do we maximize training when the temps are 80+ degrees? If you have acclimatized to the heat already from summer training, you can definitely still do speed work if you are working on your time for an upcoming race. You might not have as fast as a pace as you would have in the morning, but you will also be giving your heart more of a workout which will increase fitness. But if we are thinking about being inspired by the weather, warmer fall runs provide the perfect opportunity to get in the shade and off the beaten path by experimenting with trail running.

Trail running is always engaging but in the fall runners are in for a special treat as the leaves turn their vibrant colors. If the pull of nature’s beauty isn’t enough to get you out on the trail, consider the benefits of trail running. Trail running strengthens more (and different) muscles than just regular road or treadmill running alone. This is because it engages more muscles as your body finds its’ balance on various terrain, overcomes more hills (both up and down), and leaps over obstacles. Trail running also burns more calories per hour than regular running alone. Beyond the strengthening effects, trail running is also excellent for your mental health. Studies consistently show the benefits of getting into nature; everything from decreased anxiety and stress, reduced blood pressure, increased memory, improved concentration, and boosted immune function.

Try it — Head to one of the many amazing trails that our area has to offer — there are lots of choices for every ability level! For some nice simple loops, Johnston Woods is a great choice (they have both a 1 mile and 3 mile loop). For more options (both simple and hard) the White Oak Mountain Trails in Collegedale are a well trafficked area that can take you farther. And if you really want to challenge yourself, running on the trail system up and on Chilhowee Mountain in the Cherokee National Forest can give you serious elevation, mileage, and views. For all of these trails, runners need to be cognizant of mountain bikers and hikers.

Grab a pair of running shoes that have decent traction and that you don’t mind getting dirty (if you have trail running shoes even better!). Tell someone where you are going and when you plan on being back. Pack water and any nutrition that you need (account for mileage and effort for if you need to bring any with you), then hit the trail! If you need to walk more than you usually do that’s fine, just have fun with it and enjoy the views! The shade from the tree cover will drop warm afternoon temperatures naturally and the newness of exploring trails will bring a fresh excitement for the season.

The fall season in Tennessee might not always look like sweater weather but when it comes to running, a southern fall provides plenty of opportunities to be inspired to try something new, to push yourself, and to appreciate the beauty that we are surrounded with every day.

Happy fall, happy running!

Meet Tiffany

Meet the newest member of Team Terra: Tiffany!

Q: Tell us about yourself!

A: I am originally from the East Coast — 30 minutes north of Baltimore, Maryland (Go Ravens)! I found my way to Tennessee when I moved here to go to college. After graduating, I worked at Lee University for almost a decade (CRAZY) and I just transitioned to Team Terra! Though you will definitely find me working on the floor in the store, I am also going to be helping put on events and managing our marketing. Other things to know about me? I love coffee, music, travel, and my cat Theodore (who is perfect).

Q: What is your favorite thing to do outside?

A: Not surprisingly, my favorite thing to do outside is run! If we are getting specific, trail running has become my favorite even though I am relatively new to it. Since I also love hiking, trail running is the best of both worlds. Recently, I have also started mountain biking, which has been a blast. I am so thankful that there are so many amazing trails around the Cleveland/Chattanooga area!

Q: What is your favorite movie, book, and TV show?

A: Though I definitely enjoy a good movie, I am generally more of a documentary person. Right now I would recommend Kiss the Ground and Honeyland (two completely different types of documentaries). As far as books, my “favorite” is probably Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo. It is honestly a tough read since it is about real people living in the slums of Mumbai, but it is excellently written and certainly sticks with you long after finishing. My favorite TV show is much lighter than either of my previous picks — Parks and Recreation! I don’t know if watching Leslie Knope and the crew in Pawnee will ever get old for me. Brooklyn 99 is definitely a close second, though!

Q: How long lived in Cleveland?

A: If you count my time as a college student, I have been in Cleveland since 2009, though I officially moved here in 2013 when I started working at Lee University as a Resident Director. It is crazy that I have been here for so long!

Q: What is your advice for someone looking to be fit for shoes, never been to Terra?

A: Don’t assume that you know your shoe size! Running shoes should fit a little bit bigger than your regular street shoe since feet swell during activity. I made this mistake when I first got into running and ended up with a lot of blisters, a lost toenail, and numbness and tingling in my feet — all because my shoes were too small! This is why it is so important to let us size and fit your feet; we will help get you in a pair that feel comfortable for whatever type of activity you plan to do in your shoes.

Customer Spotlight: Andrew Crouch

By Brennan Humphreys

I recently went for an early morning run with my good friend and trail enthusiast Andrew. We did a few quick miles on the trails at Johnston Woods, and afterwards Andrew was gracious enough to share a bit about himself as a runner, as well as some of his favorite gear from Terra.

Describe yourself as a runner, Andrew.

Inconsistent! I opt for the trails. I like feeling the trail--not to be too hippie, but I like feeling one with nature, in touch with the whole experience.

What animal do you most identify with when you run?

Given my last name, I have to say tiger. I’m known as Crouching Tiger in a past life.

What’s your favorite running spot in Cleveland?

Does here count? When I want to go for a run in the evening, I’ll drive ten minutes just to go to Johnston Woods so I can get a good 3-mile loop in.

What are your preferred shoes?

I’m really enjoying my Altra Lone Peaks for trail running. I prefer running in my Lone Peaks so that I’m getting the protection that I need from the hard rocks and roots, but I’m also getting the full feel of the trail. When I run on the Greenway, I wear my Altra Torin 4.5s. I don’t like the feeling of pounding on the concrete, but the cushion on my Torins helps with that.

Favorite running accessory

Intimate or otherwise? I’ll say SAXX underwear. It’s really important.

Favorite outdoor activity besides running

Either yoga on the dock at Johnston Woods, or hammocking.

Favorite CC&M  drink?

Cloud Brew!

If you could run with any famous person?

Chris Evans, as Captain America

Anything else you’d like to share about the Lone Peak?

I like that I get all the protection I need. I never hurt from these shoes. My toes are able to spread out, and I can really feel the trail while I’m running on it, so that I can keep balance. It’s incredible, how you can get both/and: all the protection you need while also feeling the trail!

Andrew runs in the Altra Lone Peak 5, a trail shoe that we carry in both men’s and women’s sizes. Like Altras road running shoes, the Lone Peaks have a 0mm heel-to-toe drop for a balanced, natural ride, and their foot-shaped toebox helps your foot move like it’s meant to, while still providing exceptional protection and traction.

Trail Review: Johnston Woods

By Brittany Katz

Tucked into the woods off of Brymer Creek Rd. just 10 minutes south of downtown Cleveland, Johnston Woods is a great hidden gem for trail lovers! Johnston Woods Retreat Center is privately owned by Broad Street United Methodist Church, but the trails are open to the public. There are two great trails: 1.4 miles and 3.2 miles. Both are relatively flat, well maintained, and hard packed. You could use trail shoes or hiking boots, but they aren’t necessary on these trails. I have used my road running shoes to walk my dog at Johnston Woods plenty of times, especially if the ground is dry.

Some of you may have been introduced to the Johnston Woods trails during Terra Running Company’s Bear Claw Trail Race and Terra Trail Half Marathon in the past. Even when you’re not running a well-marked Terra trail race, know that the trails are easy to follow. You also have cell phone reception the entire time, so I definitely have had to check the maps on my phone more than once to reorient myself to the parking lot!

When running trails, don’t worry about your pace. You can’t compare one trail mile to the next like you can on the road, so take this change to enjoy the scenery and simply listen to your body. Oftentimes runners will go 1-3 minutes per mile slower on the trails than they would on the roads with the same amount of effort. It’s ok to slow down! The change in footing, elevation, and unpredictability of a trail will all lead to an overall slower pace, and that is ok!

With the spring starting early here in Southeast Tennessee, we have plenty of time to get outside and enjoy the trails! The great thing about taking my dog to Johnston Woods is that it’s often less busy than the Greenway and he loves all the new smells.

Please note that this trail borders private property. Users are only allowed to be on the marked trail. All lakes, ponds, buildings, and any other properties off trail are closed to public use. Thank you to the staff of Johnston Woods and Broad Street United Methodist Church for allowing the public to use these beautiful trails all year round! To learn more about Johnston Woods, visit JohnstonWoods.org or Alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/johnston-woods-trail.

Trail Review: Red Clay Historic State Park

By Brittany Katz

Just 20 minutes south of downtown Cleveland, Bradley County is home to one of Tennessee’s most beautiful state parks. Red Clay Historic State Park is a beautifully preserved swath of land close to the Georgia/Tennessee boarder. There are some great paths and trails winding through the park that me and my dog Rocky visited.

According to the Tennessee State Parks website, “Red Clay State Historic Park encompasses 263-acres of narrow valleys formerly used as cotton and pasture land. The park site was the last seat of Cherokee national government before the 1838 enforcement of the Indian Removal Act of 1830 by the U.S. military, which resulted in most of the Cherokee people in the area being forced to emigrate west. Eleven general councils were held between 1832 and 1837. Red Clay is where the Trail of Tears really began, for it was at the Red Clay Council Grounds that the Cherokee learned that they had lost their mountains, streams and valleys forever.”

There are 3 miles of trails through Red Clay Historic State Park, some paved, some hardpacked, and some trail through the woods. The paved trail is a great loop, good for strollers and easy walking and running. It takes visitors from the parking lot and Visitor’s Center past all of the historic buildings around the property. The Connector Trail is less than a mile and it connects the paved section to the wooded trails. The Council of Trees Trail is 1.4 miles through the woods surrounding the park.

Rocky and I enjoyed Red Clay Historic State Park on a warm early spring day. Leashed dogs are allowed in the park, and Rocky really enjoyed the paths and exploring the woods, as well as checking out the shallow creek running along the trail.

Red Clay Historic State Park is also home to the most beautiful blue holes I have ever seen! (Actually, the only one I’ve ever seen.) The park is home to a natural landmark, Blue Hole Spring, which arises from beneath a limestone ledge to form a deep pool that flows into Mill Creek, a tributary of the Conasauga and Coosa River system. According to historians, the spring was used by the Cherokee for their water supply during council meetings. It is such a beautiful clear blue color, and you can check it out from the land surrounding it or the walking bridge right below.

Whether you’re visiting the area or you’ve lived here all your life, be sure to make a visit to Red Clay Historic Park part of your next outdoor day! It’s a great half day adventure to explore the trails and learn the history of the area.

To learn more about Red Clay Historic Park and access maps, visit https://tnstateparks.com/parks/info/red-clay.