tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63946769526125243782024-03-05T14:21:17.062+01:00Running RoutesFor the runner on the run: Best running- and jogging routes, great hiking trails and walking tours, all in great locations!Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.comBlogger395125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-56185955072414264902022-02-21T15:29:00.004+01:002022-02-21T15:29:31.886+01:00Lucca Ramparts Running Route<p><a href="https://www.mapmyfitness.com/routes/view/4866071188" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 4.2 km (2.6 mi), terrain: flat, gain 11 meters.<br /><br />I like Lucca. It's my favorite Tuscan town to visit. Of course, it lacks the spectacular sights of Florence, with that city's Michelangelo statues, amazing palaces, world-class <i>Uffizi </i>art museum, imposing squares, and the <i>Ponte Vecchio</i> bridge lined by old houses. And, of course, Lucca doesn't have Pisa's awesome leaning tower. And, of course again, Lucca is definitely topped by Sienna's impressive Piazza del Campo square, with its Palio horse races twice a year. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhQq1T3qArpBqOglgWmKKjSrd9-i-PM71oGudG9i4k7nIgybvno4lCl1N5Hi9S1wTD6yPFulpMX1phNpG1KZZ55wUvQxQEyZdGWTE2_hkw1mWBjvYf9eDQ26Z6Z_QWWN59C60N4Jb0YgQyvgelk4b6up24-SSiZxt0ia1O7idAiMwdeaFzwh60argdyyA=s4030" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Piazza del Amfiteatro" border="0" data-original-height="2290" data-original-width="4030" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhQq1T3qArpBqOglgWmKKjSrd9-i-PM71oGudG9i4k7nIgybvno4lCl1N5Hi9S1wTD6yPFulpMX1phNpG1KZZ55wUvQxQEyZdGWTE2_hkw1mWBjvYf9eDQ26Z6Z_QWWN59C60N4Jb0YgQyvgelk4b6up24-SSiZxt0ia1O7idAiMwdeaFzwh60argdyyA=w320-h182" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucca's Piazza del Amphiteatro: a great place to eat!<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />But those towns are also totally overrun by tourists. A typical visit nowadays means shoving your way through packed crowds, being jostled by pick-pockets and being overcharged for everything you consume.<br /><br />Lucca has its tourists too, but they haven't reach tsunami levels yet.</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMEEI07C6VrJPYPFrZsjFdeT9H3_cMwPx_gdVfmvJEUed1wxlE8JjrmRk1aOUkwd_bK8axVBv-C-GfeKlVx9uWrQ4nd_m2GMM2tC55C9gEhWlY1Awu5giVYweR-WwBpc-umL8jyE85TV50YT6yNwUKy0ISeqIq8bFNNQoAk9T282dINRxYLUIdv7lQuQ=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Duomo" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMEEI07C6VrJPYPFrZsjFdeT9H3_cMwPx_gdVfmvJEUed1wxlE8JjrmRk1aOUkwd_bK8axVBv-C-GfeKlVx9uWrQ4nd_m2GMM2tC55C9gEhWlY1Awu5giVYweR-WwBpc-umL8jyE85TV50YT6yNwUKy0ISeqIq8bFNNQoAk9T282dINRxYLUIdv7lQuQ=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Lucca Duomo (cathedral)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Lucca hits that sweet spot: it's great, but not quite spectacular. Its churches and squares are beautiful and full of Italian craftmanship, but nothing is leaning precariously, and Michelangelo never got any big public commissions there. It's just an ancient town full of winding lanes lined by medieval buildings, beautifully crafted churches and palaces, and an oval square (Piazza del Amfiteatro) built inside an old Roman amphitheater. And to top it off, it's all surrounded by an intact defensive wall around the whole old town. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBlMi3gB0YRo-GKunSEHCooJ8SxC_q1VSFDEdoKFoAnCytI1_VX6Qc6Q9F6bW6S2l3VMlucAUWl1iKL9SX1IzDkBy48eXPvHiZRfVj1P9rPKU3XQqmKQqT9Yj_cDhZDIiAzxjyFJMes1p8AKJo9h9J0N93nc34X1uvsfCWy0XVtU-DhR9msjTltABhbA=s2401" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2401" data-original-width="2357" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBlMi3gB0YRo-GKunSEHCooJ8SxC_q1VSFDEdoKFoAnCytI1_VX6Qc6Q9F6bW6S2l3VMlucAUWl1iKL9SX1IzDkBy48eXPvHiZRfVj1P9rPKU3XQqmKQqT9Yj_cDhZDIiAzxjyFJMes1p8AKJo9h9J0N93nc34X1uvsfCWy0XVtU-DhR9msjTltABhbA=s320" width="314" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ramparts are Lucca's most popular running route<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The wall -- more a thick earthen rampart -- is Lucca's unique selling point among Italy's myriad amazing towns. And up there, on top of the ramparts, it so happens that you'll find all the city's runners, following the best running route in town.<br /><br />The rampart paths are lined by trees, providing lots of shade in hot weather. And the quiet, green surroundings, the constant views into the old town's maze of alleys and out into the surrounding parkland outside the ramparts, make it a scenic and pleasant place to be out and about.<br /><br />Occasional highlights -- Lucca's palaces, gardens and churches -- keep it interesting. And the total lack of traffic and intersections make it a pleasure to follow. <br /><br />Another positive result of the loop is, of course, it's impossible to get lost up there. Just slip into cruise-mode, follow the wide path, and do one, two or as many 4.2-km laps as you feel. <br /><br />You can also get on or off at any number of access points. There are city gates with ramps to get down to street-level at each of the four compass coordinates: north, south, east and west, plus a few more ways down along the way.<br /><br />So, if you're ready to take my advice -- to slip on your running shoes and head out for one memorable run -- just find one of those four gates in the walls. This route officially starts at Porta Santa Maria, the northern gate, but you could start anywhere. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTz9oXQ0IXnSBcyXZwU1HOjWKXvhT-lpVOsDBdAf-50xh83ZJpcxdt6w0WRsyGKprZXSjH8qeTL4ILTI7Fpd9Ij5xObk2EuRDD6EzW5AgczJMsVcZCqGI1CRrNNVYMlHxtrUoBNlaA-kC2-SGddr5cIO8NH6yZC4cAUmVqT_Xj9BrWndzVm-aYAnQMjw=s3530" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2272" data-original-width="3530" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTz9oXQ0IXnSBcyXZwU1HOjWKXvhT-lpVOsDBdAf-50xh83ZJpcxdt6w0WRsyGKprZXSjH8qeTL4ILTI7Fpd9Ij5xObk2EuRDD6EzW5AgczJMsVcZCqGI1CRrNNVYMlHxtrUoBNlaA-kC2-SGddr5cIO8NH6yZC4cAUmVqT_Xj9BrWndzVm-aYAnQMjw=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start here at Porta Santa Maria<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Just run through the gate into the old town, and immediately take one of the two ramps leading upwards to either side. Once you're up there among the people strolling the path and hanging out on the benches,(the path is called Via delle Mura Urbane), off you go. I've written up this route to follow the walls going clockwise, with the old town to your right, but that doesn't really matter, either. But most runners up there seem to be heading that way around. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMl2Rvzjl3b4O-s8xDW66ffakI74gWe_lSV_n0B3FOhF9ZyYmJi_1iqDee4Ol-g3EtcQ9gFWPSrXd51yKEyeCPuAILwUxh-YiOZnuPvYpERZM9RK2YESj48vV4WNfcu7IEqPDRS5HQf2ufiak1VrRtkYTLRQyJidHbtKfn9xdg9oaRYf3iWVK1aITOBg=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMl2Rvzjl3b4O-s8xDW66ffakI74gWe_lSV_n0B3FOhF9ZyYmJi_1iqDee4Ol-g3EtcQ9gFWPSrXd51yKEyeCPuAILwUxh-YiOZnuPvYpERZM9RK2YESj48vV4WNfcu7IEqPDRS5HQf2ufiak1VrRtkYTLRQyJidHbtKfn9xdg9oaRYf3iWVK1aITOBg=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the shady ramparts<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />You'll quickly pass the first of many bulwarks built outwards from the walls, protecting them with ways to shoot sideways at anyone trying to breach the walls. They provide interesting views and are often adorned with statues, monuments, old cannon emplacements, playgrounds and even cafés.<br /><br />At the second bulwark, the wall turns right and you start running along the eastern side. Just after the 1-kilometer mark, you come to (and run above) the eastern gate, Porta Elisa.<br /><br />One of my favorite views comes at about the 1.5-km mark, when you pass the botanical garden (<i>Orto Botanico</i>) on the inside of the walls. Very lush and peaceful looking, full of huge cedar trees! You are now running westwards, along the south side. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFwxa2qUFfzdGY6snyY4U5VsnOD693Q_jVT2IpgPJmfDoIrtc7ABOhfS8_R8wCuxzc2XUmlrD7hstkp5CudkRv9MzAuO60UVPEU-u4Nz01rUGtk6E_1NndxXyhXiHua8pl2sAe7Fqb4CL4sCIvPUvGdkdx92j3-Bu1x9n2Ik9MBfllEg6qUcR9yxY-Eg=s2869" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2869" data-original-width="2026" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFwxa2qUFfzdGY6snyY4U5VsnOD693Q_jVT2IpgPJmfDoIrtc7ABOhfS8_R8wCuxzc2XUmlrD7hstkp5CudkRv9MzAuO60UVPEU-u4Nz01rUGtk6E_1NndxXyhXiHua8pl2sAe7Fqb4CL4sCIvPUvGdkdx92j3-Bu1x9n2Ik9MBfllEg6qUcR9yxY-Eg=s320" width="226" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Orto Botanico<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />There are a couple of inviting cafés along this south wall. At the 2-km mark, you'll also run by the back side of the cathedral, the Duomo di San Martino, with its square tower. All in all, this south side a great hangout to come back to later. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhF_vPxNmVoCi5ncv0-F_uPwzaGxZCXv8c9G6eOd_sc9AeTW5Gwx5Md5NlJfcAJ19ddUjrz6YR3vXeYQtxThjNA2VNCt7fPQv3sNtvUElFoTsqfURcU9n7rBfx4Q4BjFxq1YcfMNgUQGxyXdFRO8xH_gqlCVDRPE4GynPDf9Jhj9D9d90CaSkNmTUjQDw=s3539" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3539" data-original-width="2139" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhF_vPxNmVoCi5ncv0-F_uPwzaGxZCXv8c9G6eOd_sc9AeTW5Gwx5Md5NlJfcAJ19ddUjrz6YR3vXeYQtxThjNA2VNCt7fPQv3sNtvUElFoTsqfURcU9n7rBfx4Q4BjFxq1YcfMNgUQGxyXdFRO8xH_gqlCVDRPE4GynPDf9Jhj9D9d90CaSkNmTUjQDw=s320" width="193" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Statue along the west side<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The walls gradually turn northwards as you run along the west side. The western gate, Porta Santa Anna, comes up at the 3-km mark. There are a couple of museums in old buildings right along the walls here, one in the old mint (<i>Museo della Zecca</i>) displays old Luccan coins and minting machinery, and the other in the old cavalry stables (<i>Cavallerizza</i>) hosts a lively variety of art exhibits, forums, workshops and festivals. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjD6UhfGWGwkoiwHI4_yrLhUnULNwjyHWzzWm7k-CZ2y5QML-urDyI9_lRA2hyCo9YFePMmMf-FcPR0dclwMYaUN5S277VHlbgObXBZOBRldIODcml3BWGcJCraPyMHn-D7t2YyTes-0KJGb0EjJXorUqLjPMDFL6wk_Y2dFd-vW20X6EaVaBJk1Nxslg=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjD6UhfGWGwkoiwHI4_yrLhUnULNwjyHWzzWm7k-CZ2y5QML-urDyI9_lRA2hyCo9YFePMmMf-FcPR0dclwMYaUN5S277VHlbgObXBZOBRldIODcml3BWGcJCraPyMHn-D7t2YyTes-0KJGb0EjJXorUqLjPMDFL6wk_Y2dFd-vW20X6EaVaBJk1Nxslg=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palazzo Pfanner gardens<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Once you are back on the northern wall, at the 4-km mark, you'll pass the last highlight: the view into the formal gardens of Lucca's most famous palace, <i>Palazzo Pfanner,</i> now a posh hotel.<br /><br />You'll soon be back at the starting point at Porta Santa Maria, where you can head home or start lap number two, as you please. Just make sure you don't over-do it: save enough time and energy for exploring and enjoying Lucca's many other delights within the old walls!</p>Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-41707283484040547572021-11-10T15:54:00.004+01:002021-11-10T16:08:42.122+01:00Garmisch Partnachklamm Running Route<p><a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/4732679713" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 9 km (5.6 mi), terrain: slightly uphill but easy (gain 150 meters).<br /><br />If you go to Germany, you'll probably stop in at Garmisch-Partenkirchen. This scenic town is located at the foot of Germany's tallest peak, the Zugspitze (almost 3,000 meters high) and is the starting point for lots of memorable alpine hiking- and climbing trips.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCx66BCP4ZHalBeWlJTKGZVRTzWppEBnzzgT7r2ku9vBW8aTAKhdRrUOpMyjdBXCPQFN5SwvY-QQmBGhgANEtvd4SB6VUGm0cV-HiK9hZ8NPZGdMf8VBe2Btb9agrigL9iMk95Or4kXx3d/s2048/Garmisch_Fountain.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Garmisch fountain" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCx66BCP4ZHalBeWlJTKGZVRTzWppEBnzzgT7r2ku9vBW8aTAKhdRrUOpMyjdBXCPQFN5SwvY-QQmBGhgANEtvd4SB6VUGm0cV-HiK9hZ8NPZGdMf8VBe2Btb9agrigL9iMk95Or4kXx3d/w320-h240/Garmisch_Fountain.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fountain in the town center<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br />One of the best sights in Garmish is the nearby Partnachklamm, a narrow gorge carved out of the alpine rock by a wild little river, the Partnach. The gorge has 90-meter-high cliffs on either side, and the walkway (mainly carved out of the cliffs) takes you right along the foaming water. I've hiked along a lot of amazing canyons in the American West, and I'd rate the Partnachklamm as being as scenic as just about any of them.<br /><br />So here's an interesting idea for a running route from the town center out to the beginning of the <i>klamm</i> (gorge). Whether you turn around there, or you buy an entrance ticket and walk along the <i>klamm </i>trail and turn around at the end, or you could keep going out the far end (south) of the <i>klamm </i>to then follow a return trail above the gorge back to the beginning, that's your choice. The route map only shows the 9-kilometer way to the entrance. Add another couple of kilometers to hike the 700-meter-long gorge and run back on the return trail that takes you to back to the gorge entrance ticket house.<br /><br /><i>NOTE: Since this running route will take you to the gorge entrance anyway, I would recommend buying a ticket and seeing this really impressive natural wonder. You'll be glad you did! The gorge trail is open till 8 p.m. every day (it closes at 6 p.m. in the dark months) and entrance costs 6 Euros (you save a Euro if you are staying at a local hotel and have a guest card). </i><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhgp4XibPThutRi9v7hLVDWdJh87aAN_oGz_P7v0roW8yeis458gn2aea9DeW8h9v51ONeAzziGkzsXunDl7XzhFKNiPpXEbJpCQUrjtLNtA5QPzNhZsZ-XcuaGo2X4kHK1jMSHWrKD5p/s2048/Garmisch_PartnachKlamm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Partnachklamm" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhgp4XibPThutRi9v7hLVDWdJh87aAN_oGz_P7v0roW8yeis458gn2aea9DeW8h9v51ONeAzziGkzsXunDl7XzhFKNiPpXEbJpCQUrjtLNtA5QPzNhZsZ-XcuaGo2X4kHK1jMSHWrKD5p/w240-h320/Garmisch_PartnachKlamm.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the gorge<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />This route will basically take you from the main street in Garmisch and then head south to the little farm roads out in the surrounding fields. At the Olympic winter stadium, the route connects into the <i>klamm </i>road and heads lightly uphill to the <i>klamm </i>entrance, going up and over a few small rises.<br /><br />So, if you're ready to head out, lets meet at the starting point in the heart of town: Mohrenplatz, with its old fountain and <i>biergarten</i>. Looking at the fountain and <i>biergarten</i>, turn right and run northeast past the shops as the street curves to the right into Klammstraße. You now run south, past the <i>St. Antonius Apoteke</i>.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdn7YB8FqtvX1TiHyMgrfq07KaJAQbZBkG6witM9gum1JfawynArHwhBeF2OvXF_cbGj_JGCeo8pLp5GPb3R0tCrfNtO326aLZOMQb833htpOLewKFASkKf2640QIrAPYdzBeG77XhMmbt/s2048/Garmisch_MohrenPlatz.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Garmisch Mohrenplatz" border="0" data-original-height="1554" data-original-width="2048" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdn7YB8FqtvX1TiHyMgrfq07KaJAQbZBkG6witM9gum1JfawynArHwhBeF2OvXF_cbGj_JGCeo8pLp5GPb3R0tCrfNtO326aLZOMQb833htpOLewKFASkKf2640QIrAPYdzBeG77XhMmbt/w320-h243/Garmisch_MohrenPlatz.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mohrenplatz: head thataway!<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />You run past the stores, restaurants and hotels for the next few blocks, and cross the bigger street, St.-Martin-Straße. Keep running south along Klammstraße, but now it's quieter and greener. You can see the peaks of the Alps ahead in the distance.<br /><br />You'll pass parking lots for the winter-sports arena, swimming pool and the cog-train to the top of Zugspitze (really worth visiting!) at the 1-kilometer-mark. Then Klammstraße ends after the parking lots and it continues as a paved pedestrian- and bike trail, heading between fields and small barns. You are already out in the exhilarating alpine vistas.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3gk-Q1FsDLGP8C_1kUUFcfwMkTq90pp3bnDK98Lijlt9GmVPPm4I8AOs8J8edguO1FGMaIDD6ZAfxKNrOjQdcVOmMlSwJ2lqKgaIEuvHhIJD9i8Cpk4YOA1uYie19OPsDLoEqm2UB2Jp/s2048/Garmisch_IntoTheFields.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Into the fields" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3gk-Q1FsDLGP8C_1kUUFcfwMkTq90pp3bnDK98Lijlt9GmVPPm4I8AOs8J8edguO1FGMaIDD6ZAfxKNrOjQdcVOmMlSwJ2lqKgaIEuvHhIJD9i8Cpk4YOA1uYie19OPsDLoEqm2UB2Jp/w320-h240/Garmisch_IntoTheFields.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading into the fields<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />After you cross the train tracks for the Zugspitzbahn, turn left onto the paved trail called Hausberg. <i>(NOTE: If you turned right, it would take you to other interesting spots, like Rießersee lake, some lifts to nearby peaks, and Eibsee, a big lake with a loop trail along its shores.)</i> <p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUkLi62enovYb8NIdhmIPiro4eXW_e3v5r8MC2QoqEPqSM1hZodahb13ZoQiDBrG3ItIW2dVeQw54eg3hqBs5w_2XEGGoQ8TK_RwA-y2ANN5XlbBGRVLi1lP292CO4H7MaJ6ORhasRHQbN/s2048/Garmisch_HausbergTrail.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hausberg trail" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUkLi62enovYb8NIdhmIPiro4eXW_e3v5r8MC2QoqEPqSM1hZodahb13ZoQiDBrG3ItIW2dVeQw54eg3hqBs5w_2XEGGoQ8TK_RwA-y2ANN5XlbBGRVLi1lP292CO4H7MaJ6ORhasRHQbN/w320-h240/Garmisch_HausbergTrail.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hausberg trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Heading east along the Hausberg trail, it follows the train tracks south of town. At about the 2.7-kilometer mark, the trail splits at a little barn. Follow the green arrow to the right, taking you towards the Partnachklamm.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9GPhXCrpgupt6s1nV38v-NIFygQ-i6BBeROB3ocitgUL-1woXkWYJrXVSfeK_grLUl0B0uVliLKw3Aq0oRVbe3f4cYQqNlhNZ3VANQrUz560FeN1RH58KEXhi871caWTNuHTzdMkz1Ox/s2048/Garmisch_ForkInTrails.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fork in trail" border="0" data-original-height="1437" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9GPhXCrpgupt6s1nV38v-NIFygQ-i6BBeROB3ocitgUL-1woXkWYJrXVSfeK_grLUl0B0uVliLKw3Aq0oRVbe3f4cYQqNlhNZ3VANQrUz560FeN1RH58KEXhi871caWTNuHTzdMkz1Ox/w320-h225/Garmisch_ForkInTrails.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fork in the trail: turn right!<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />At the 3-km-mark, the trail crosses the Partnach stream and ends at a little road, Wildenauerstraße. We're now right next to the Olympic ski jump straight ahead.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlDCKs1RXbZcUx3HbD4MbfYfq6qljwCd4-7yt4YotTDFoxZ0WmDw3sKLJHFK4-_ovcWNnJ79TNGBDwDvnl8inY5NNw_RHt94fcHHZIe9AKR0TXqoyct_YP9lWlIyTAi3VBaBtvoBZb1Pn/s2048/Garmisch_OlympicSkiJump.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Olympic ski jump" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlDCKs1RXbZcUx3HbD4MbfYfq6qljwCd4-7yt4YotTDFoxZ0WmDw3sKLJHFK4-_ovcWNnJ79TNGBDwDvnl8inY5NNw_RHt94fcHHZIe9AKR0TXqoyct_YP9lWlIyTAi3VBaBtvoBZb1Pn/w320-h240/Garmisch_OlympicSkiJump.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olympic ski jump straight ahead<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Now turn right and head out Wildenauerstraße all the way to the gorge ticket house. There will be a lot of hikers who are walking to or from the <i>klamm</i>, and a few cars and horse carriages.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcT6oKIeOv8iMnHaXmAaW8axXp0aROvtYjVv8RIXYUlqUuDeClIGAJ0Q96hPtjLQfVq3GLFqhBL_AhaSHd6uC2tYVuBkIn-7HmjpkbVKL2xVF4l9A4tt3KOeymLqgCtI7uLqLsXwmF_7f/s2048/Garmisch_WildenauerStrasse.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wildenauerstrasse" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcT6oKIeOv8iMnHaXmAaW8axXp0aROvtYjVv8RIXYUlqUuDeClIGAJ0Q96hPtjLQfVq3GLFqhBL_AhaSHd6uC2tYVuBkIn-7HmjpkbVKL2xVF4l9A4tt3KOeymLqgCtI7uLqLsXwmF_7f/w320-h240/Garmisch_WildenauerStrasse.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildenauerstraße</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <p></p><p>There are a few short rises that the road ascends, but no problem. Enjoy the scenery, listen to the whitewater cascading over the rocks, it's a great place to be.<br /><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZWi6ulPUXROh63uZnJ2vOw5kjXU79PaZd4C1Li70MVIS0veyi_-nqElGxndQkL-N4IswRnOgxgXKAFzal6W8Hm_MKj29zwRL9IIp6Qga5QAq6Dbn5xhyphenhyphenxD5KBjLU8jrdzjP9GItGYlmn/s2048/Garmisch_KlammEntrance.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Alpine view" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZWi6ulPUXROh63uZnJ2vOw5kjXU79PaZd4C1Li70MVIS0veyi_-nqElGxndQkL-N4IswRnOgxgXKAFzal6W8Hm_MKj29zwRL9IIp6Qga5QAq6Dbn5xhyphenhyphenxD5KBjLU8jrdzjP9GItGYlmn/w320-h240/Garmisch_KlammEntrance.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alpine view near the gorge entrance<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />There are a couple of small parking lots just outside the gorge entrance. The road crosses the Partnach just after the Klammhaus restaurant, and you'll find yourself at the ticket house. <br /><br />This is the spot to either turn around and run the same way back home or to buy a ticket and walk (it's too narrow and slippery to run!) up the gorge. At the far end of the gorge, there is a gate. There you can exit the gorge and follow the dirt trail as it goes up and along the gorge back to the beginning, viewing it from above. Or you could just turn around and walk back along the gorge trail again.<br /><br />I hope you enjoyed getting out into the fields and hills!<br /><p></p>Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-77848978453685129422021-05-03T12:13:00.002+02:002021-05-03T12:13:34.050+02:00Best Canary Islands Running Routes<p><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">8 Island Discovery Runs</span></span><br /><br />If you're heading to the Canary Islands, then you'll want to strap on your running shoes and discover the nearby towns, beaches and national parks. Here are eight great running routes on four of the most interesting Canary Islands: <b>La Palma, Tenerifa, Gran Canaria</b> and <b>Fuerteventura</b>.</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGhgKd1yySDJU3OiceohtDxl-x6jzN4j7SJ1X_rT99JUGtphyphenhyphenqFxREYKPej_d1ni6RT6eNAOJohJGbntgpySheI5RDZZvj90vdmyVdPxaKbyFCD9-qGfFHGO1tVAkQBwjFM2QO5d0VniyU/s2016/LaCumbrecita_Ravens.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cumbrecita" border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGhgKd1yySDJU3OiceohtDxl-x6jzN4j7SJ1X_rT99JUGtphyphenhyphenqFxREYKPej_d1ni6RT6eNAOJohJGbntgpySheI5RDZZvj90vdmyVdPxaKbyFCD9-qGfFHGO1tVAkQBwjFM2QO5d0VniyU/w320-h240/LaCumbrecita_Ravens.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cumbrecita trail on La Palma<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />La Palma is my favorite Canary Island: no big hotels, lots of green hillsides, and a variety of scenery on one compact island. So I wrote up three routes to discover its amazing natural sites.<br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><br />The Best Canary Runs</span></span><br /><b><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2017/03/barranco-de-las-angustias-trail-running.html" target="_blank">Barranco de las Angustias, La Palma</a></b>: a route up into La Palma's huge volcanic caldera, following a river valley along rugged trails. Watch your step! <br /><b><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2017/03/la-cumbrecita-trail-running-route-la.html" target="_blank">La Cumbrecita, La Palma</a></b>: This scenic route follows a fairly flat trail along the side of the caldera, with gorgeous views at every turn. <br /><b><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2017/10/la-palma-ruta-de-los-volcanes-trail.html" target="_blank">Ruta de los Volcanes, La Palma</a></b>: A run along a few of the newer volcanic cones along the south side of the island. A fascinating moonscape! <br /><b><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2020/03/aqua-liques-trail-costa-calma.html" target="_blank">Agua Liques Trail, Fuerteventura</a></b>: This flat, deserty trail crosses the sands of Jandia from Costa Calma to Playa del Agua Liques and the amazing cliffs along the west coast. <br /><b><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2018/03/el-teide-national-park-running-route.html" target="_blank">El Teide National Park, Tenerifa</a></b>: This short but very scenic trail explores some of the impressive rock formations below El Teide Peak. Don't miss it! <br /><b><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2017/11/tenerife-playa-de-las-americas-running.html" target="_blank">Playa de las Americas, Tenerifa</a></b>: Most folks stay in the sunny, beachy area of Playa de las Americas to the Costa Adeje. This waterside run lets you explore the area from its best side. <br /><b><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2015/11/playa-del-ingles-to-san-agustin-running.html" target="_blank">San Augustin, Gran Canaria</a></b>: This beach run takes you north from the main tourist town of Playa del Ingles to nearby San Augustin, with its amazing cliffs. <br /><b><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2015/12/maspalomas-to-meloneras-gran-canaria.html" target="_blank">Maspalomas, Gran Canaria</a></b>: Maspalomas has its wide sand dunes and its lighthouse, and a nice stretch of beach. Explore it with this great route. <br /></p>Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-77552810061498437802021-03-27T15:26:00.002+01:002021-03-27T15:26:33.110+01:00Kodachrome Basin Running Route<p><a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/4257627961" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br /><i>Length 2.9 km (1.8 mi), terrain: flat and easy (gain 83 meters), but with occasional bad footing, watch your step!</i><br /><br />Utah is really blessed with natural wonders. One of my favorite spots, Kodachrome Basin State Park, is magical enough to be a national park, if it were located anywhere else. But in Utah, with its five national parks and a multitude of national monuments, Kodachrome keeps a low profile, hiding in the canyons just east of Bryce.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1G4Cuu4nsNttqD3LXRCNYYNMosJVfAECeqwyWsOrAer3u0QPxDDCXumrJ9Efoz3i8TgvyADHkfu2sCSpSdVfMhGF78PVLah-EWA4N-A03WC4qw3wtMd3I6oycAmv6Akzo4oBPbkwuD-Tn/s2048/Kodachrome_Chimney.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1G4Cuu4nsNttqD3LXRCNYYNMosJVfAECeqwyWsOrAer3u0QPxDDCXumrJ9Efoz3i8TgvyADHkfu2sCSpSdVfMhGF78PVLah-EWA4N-A03WC4qw3wtMd3I6oycAmv6Akzo4oBPbkwuD-Tn/s320/Kodachrome_Chimney.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many rock chimneys<br /></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p>The basin is full of rock chimneys, and lined by spectacular cliffs, with red rock foundations and white peaks rising above. Ancient, weathered junipers dot the dusty basin floor. Abundant slickrock (smooth, pillow-shaped, solid-rock hills) make for inviting climbs. It's the perfect hangout for just about anyone of any age or condition.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtYUCoVUZZSUUEcn2TdclSlz-TM2rMXW5kLUMsEQ0tHaPlIhcKVhROb9Wwu0g42BG-luTaWkZVXPvDdMSM0b6ds9zwzr7jEb-qreCKuiXN6fJo_viXUppYVV0oe2-ZGgkgrGVjn4zfUeG/s2048/Kodachrome_Juniper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtYUCoVUZZSUUEcn2TdclSlz-TM2rMXW5kLUMsEQ0tHaPlIhcKVhROb9Wwu0g42BG-luTaWkZVXPvDdMSM0b6ds9zwzr7jEb-qreCKuiXN6fJo_viXUppYVV0oe2-ZGgkgrGVjn4zfUeG/s320/Kodachrome_Juniper.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juniper before the slickrock<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>There are a variety of trails in Kodachrome. This route follows a flat trail called the Grand Parade Trail. <br /><br />This is a short and easy trail, a great way to get out and explore a bit more of the park, right near the Basin Campground. There are several other trails right there that you can combine with this to create an even longer route:<br /></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The short but beautiful <i>Nature Trail</i></li><li><i>Angel's Palace Trail</i>, which heads up to a plateau with views above the basin floor</li><li><i>Panorama Trail</i>, with two different loop distances available</li></ul><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5N1nxMXkTqF1YLBsyuoK1DacC2Fs4FXPJzppxjbhfRLxihUi5efX7IX2WoC4QwGZQ9BcyIlnymaBxuAtgHnYAHZJX5beVbwUMPn6H0T06KESy5VjqPUge2PiNRbyjZcUYC8RV9XNHqoN2/s2048/Kodachrome_Quote.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Audobon quote" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5N1nxMXkTqF1YLBsyuoK1DacC2Fs4FXPJzppxjbhfRLxihUi5efX7IX2WoC4QwGZQ9BcyIlnymaBxuAtgHnYAHZJX5beVbwUMPn6H0T06KESy5VjqPUge2PiNRbyjZcUYC8RV9XNHqoN2/w240-h320/Kodachrome_Quote.JPG" title="Great quote from John James Audobon along the Nature Trail" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great quote from John James Audobon on Nature Trail<br /></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p>You can start the Grand Parade from two spots: one is just 150 meters south of the Basin Campground, or you can also start at the parking lot for the Panorama Trailhead, along the park road.<br /><br />The Panorama Trail heads west of the trailhead, the Grand Parade to the east. The trail is fairly simple to follow, the trail hikers and runners have worn deep ruts along a lot of the way. There are occasional dry washes that cross the trail, and you have to find the trail again after crossing.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIJc2qemHUKhZFf1WPtGtLsq5nTxWNMjtEvtwz8Efh4YIIeZroyOU-JdwiQI3z4I2w7snJWr6BRrQKfuF-Hyy2w0IZxLSIknrv70xW0M1daBHmG_9TrUdX7gJSoVloBNSniV4wk3mlrT9/s2048/Kodachrome_View.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIJc2qemHUKhZFf1WPtGtLsq5nTxWNMjtEvtwz8Efh4YIIeZroyOU-JdwiQI3z4I2w7snJWr6BRrQKfuF-Hyy2w0IZxLSIknrv70xW0M1daBHmG_9TrUdX7gJSoVloBNSniV4wk3mlrT9/s320/Kodachrome_View.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View near the trailhead<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>This route loops it counterclockwise, but it doesn't really matter which way you go. There are two box canyons along the Grand Parade: box canyon is a canyon that dead-ends into an the surrounding cliffs. Make sure to turn into and explore them along the way! <br /><br />So off we go, turning right at the first junction, and crossing first one wash, then another. The trial turns left and follows along the bottom of the cliffs, rounding a promentory and then heading east again towards our first box canyon.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoI0kmrTXdcbdx2PTNBGd8nvdJL4xeSBmde9zsZ6TKr_xlRCFbf3rmCee17EL9RDOKvfpdiC4Kq-u-3tmIZR3kiqUa6oe36yQYmSFEbN3byOZMPlXL6l9GTbwT7Qk6294Fj0xqzUq6hSL0/s2048/Kodachrome_Palisades.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1358" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoI0kmrTXdcbdx2PTNBGd8nvdJL4xeSBmde9zsZ6TKr_xlRCFbf3rmCee17EL9RDOKvfpdiC4Kq-u-3tmIZR3kiqUa6oe36yQYmSFEbN3byOZMPlXL6l9GTbwT7Qk6294Fj0xqzUq6hSL0/s320/Kodachrome_Palisades.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The palisades<br /></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p>When you reach the mouth of the canyon, notice the old wooden palisade fence that was built by pioneers to use the canyon as a natural corral. You just head westwards, straight into the narrow canyon until the trail ends, and then run back out. The canyon end is at the one-kilometer mark.<br /><br />After the palisades, take the fork in the trail to the right and continue following it through more open country, past a few rock chimneys.</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMbrfewitb2aUupaXhaTuQjeAIa_KkTSO0WNdnQalA9aotrBrb_a-DzCBIGlxiH9g0FRN4IpKkIZgImHtkRYkA5YbVM39-XkjIDmlwZejENpvR-dq2TU8h33RxwCFkaGectJG1uhKPo16T/s2048/Kodachrome_BoxCanyon2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="second box canyon" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMbrfewitb2aUupaXhaTuQjeAIa_KkTSO0WNdnQalA9aotrBrb_a-DzCBIGlxiH9g0FRN4IpKkIZgImHtkRYkA5YbVM39-XkjIDmlwZejENpvR-dq2TU8h33RxwCFkaGectJG1uhKPo16T/w320-h240/Kodachrome_BoxCanyon2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading into the box canyon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p>Then, after hugging some more cliffs, we come to the entrance to the other box canyon, to the right. This one is really amazing, with gigantic cliffs rising along the back of the canyon, surrounding the huge amphitheater, with their white-rock-crowned cliffs. It looks a bit like a wall of skyscrapers.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-cI5PrjdqlfEmbYibOyNR0CA81IBPxQjQIQw2Yq5vCrtrG6Tc4ymouPvZ6ChB1VOIhxFzt21C_TeLmxjFQ6OJ1V57Q2qa0zEB5Vftqs1btMWQ5LfHpugWKK8dcPIZdr_Qqw8KJQ5vOGy/s2048/Kodachrome_BoxCanyon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-cI5PrjdqlfEmbYibOyNR0CA81IBPxQjQIQw2Yq5vCrtrG6Tc4ymouPvZ6ChB1VOIhxFzt21C_TeLmxjFQ6OJ1V57Q2qa0zEB5Vftqs1btMWQ5LfHpugWKK8dcPIZdr_Qqw8KJQ5vOGy/s320/Kodachrome_BoxCanyon.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the amazing amphitheater of the canyon<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>After circling it, passing the 2-kilometer mark, head back out and
continue with the loop. Soon we come to the junction where the feeder
trail comes in from the campground, to the right. Just keep left and
head southwards back towards the trailhead, running parallel to the park
road, which is 100 meters to the west.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48OEjxvvgLyvIZoahtDVd_RB_q1XPcclSJ5xhHRxzwWaedU4ovTz6gBYYHCeJhKu2hP0e4VvpIDuJTuPf7ZZRg2pPEFkfwDjf2NoBxD-OpEr0A1yBWeVSRquul0LKlEsxDr6dczdvZxGS/s2048/Kodachrome_Wash.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48OEjxvvgLyvIZoahtDVd_RB_q1XPcclSJ5xhHRxzwWaedU4ovTz6gBYYHCeJhKu2hP0e4VvpIDuJTuPf7ZZRg2pPEFkfwDjf2NoBxD-OpEr0A1yBWeVSRquul0LKlEsxDr6dczdvZxGS/s320/Kodachrome_Wash.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At a wash<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>We cross more washes,
pass lots more junipers, have amazing rock formations lining the horizon
in every direction. That's one nice run!</p>Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-68546512874389180092020-12-03T11:27:00.007+01:002020-12-03T11:27:58.590+01:00London Embankment Running Route<p><a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/3727565002" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 10.7 km (6.6 mi), terrain: flat and easy (gain 48 meters), some steps and loud intersections<br /><br />One of my favorite places to be in London is along the Thames. The river is the city's streaming heartblood, flowing by as a constant witness to all the great events, people and places that grace its shores. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj_1ujdBa6K4l4jCDlqBnxf5GyUh6GeqoIH4ZltOPp6foe5aGi5Abu-2aj1hTqnsEnhL2q5Sd4HptF66kFEJDhutATz3vOlaCeegfn3uBcL2If_D560yj3NsT5Gtj3d8feyAycBIXoRK58/s2016/LondonEmbankment_ShardView.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj_1ujdBa6K4l4jCDlqBnxf5GyUh6GeqoIH4ZltOPp6foe5aGi5Abu-2aj1hTqnsEnhL2q5Sd4HptF66kFEJDhutATz3vOlaCeegfn3uBcL2If_D560yj3NsT5Gtj3d8feyAycBIXoRK58/s320/LondonEmbankment_ShardView.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Shard with a Thames-side pub crowd<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />So, for me at least, there is nothing like taking a run along the riverside trails along both banks of the Thames. The embankments are lined with monuments, theaters, wharves, pubs, museums and almost everything that contributes to London's rich culture. And the network of bridges lets you switch from side to side at regular intervals. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4hdeFpjES2EhGzL0PObU6k7AAtXa8HTWzxydWSLdB1vhf6v7bg6bMPOtd6Xv_OgWnzugB39EKqwtfZfo2wMcPC1LrBjl5k5s7jGC_mwCvqfYsSXzd08KyGrtKG5cl4GQzrKoDzU0Kf9UP/s2048/LondonEmbankment_ThamesClipper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1433" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4hdeFpjES2EhGzL0PObU6k7AAtXa8HTWzxydWSLdB1vhf6v7bg6bMPOtd6Xv_OgWnzugB39EKqwtfZfo2wMcPC1LrBjl5k5s7jGC_mwCvqfYsSXzd08KyGrtKG5cl4GQzrKoDzU0Kf9UP/s320/LondonEmbankment_ThamesClipper.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the Thames<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />This running route will explore the city center, passing a lot of the tourist spots that make London such a world-class destination. We'll start out in front of the Houses of Parliament, next to Westminster Cathedral, then cross the river to follow the south bank, past the <i>London Eye</i>, the Waterloo venues of the <i>Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall</i> and the <i>National Theatre</i>, head past the <i>Oxo Tower</i>, the Tate Modern Art Museum with the Millenium Bridge, the recreated Globe Theatre, the replica of the <i>Golden Hinde</i> exporation ship, Southwark Cathedral and City Hall before crossing the legendary Tower Bridge.<br /><br />Then, running home on the north side of the river, we'll loop through the marina in the old St. Catherine's Docks basins, and return to Westminster by way of the Tower, Custom House, passing St. Paul's Cathedral and Temple Gardens, running through graceful Embankment Park and then back to the start.<br /><br />There are lots of other sights along the way: this is truly a run to remember, full of Victorian charm. The only downside is that there can be -- and probably will be -- big crowds of walkers in different sections. But 90% of the way will be stress-free, so I think it's well worth it. Otherwise, just slow to a walk when needed, and go with the flow and do a bit of people-watching. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpWjdlmCv-Z1sv4qytfvAOB2dcVfviehwMtnH9-5cnmoOjx4sNuAo0ofOt7XRBV9Nn9oyT5OhqvkKzhTI9kZNVUu4a2EgnrDb5Wkw8vzkOsqfY4n4BMmvjo9l7dpMO3SzPA6CkHBBCfvu/s1600/LondonEmbankment_Parliament5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpWjdlmCv-Z1sv4qytfvAOB2dcVfviehwMtnH9-5cnmoOjx4sNuAo0ofOt7XRBV9Nn9oyT5OhqvkKzhTI9kZNVUu4a2EgnrDb5Wkw8vzkOsqfY4n4BMmvjo9l7dpMO3SzPA6CkHBBCfvu/s320/LondonEmbankment_Parliament5.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oliver Cromwell statue at Parliament<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />So if you're ready to go, get yourself to Parliament Square, with the statue of Winston Churchill looming cantankerously above, and the main entrance to Parliament across the street. The Big Ben clock tower is right there, and Westminster Cathedral is off to the south, with the undulating Gothic facade of the Lady Chapel facing Parliament (and inside it's even more amazing, with an intricate laticework of stone artistry up in the vaulted ceilings).<br /><br />Once you can tear yourself away from this fascinating spot, head past Big Ben and across Westminster Bridge to southern London on the other side of the river. We are already beginning some of the great riverside views which will accompany us for the whole run: Parliament itself reflected in the flowing water and the County Hall and the <i>London Eye</i> wheel across the way. Run on either side of the bridge, whatever looks more interesting to you. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZkJTX_ifTp7m18vDw9T0_-KNWXgoF13gBwzPhs1LeGkqJxoHqLui_SOjiG3L-I90-3AWWQWJdgcMCxDVEKbmUUI1oueh1g00GyICYtvs5S1KwVIAt6kB_xOnOgnRPUUSvxeLte1uqVPU/s2016/LondonEmbankment_Eye.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZkJTX_ifTp7m18vDw9T0_-KNWXgoF13gBwzPhs1LeGkqJxoHqLui_SOjiG3L-I90-3AWWQWJdgcMCxDVEKbmUUI1oueh1g00GyICYtvs5S1KwVIAt6kB_xOnOgnRPUUSvxeLte1uqVPU/s320/LondonEmbankment_Eye.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running towards the London Eye<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />At the other side, take the steps down to the riverside trail and head northwards right at the riverside. You're now passing the County Hall building, which nowadays houses the aquarium and a lot of tourist attractions. We're following the <i>Queen's Walk</i>.<br /><br />Now you run under the supports for the <i>Eye</i>, which barely moves in its half-hourly rotations.<br /><br />And then, at the 1-kilometer-mark, you run beneath the Hungerford railroad bridge, with its modern footbridges added to each side, which connect people to Charing Cross on the other side.<br /><br />The three theaters now come up as we approach Waterloo Bridge. They offer cafés, free afternoon entertainment in the lobbies and rooftop dining in non-corona times, and are worth coming back for a visit. Various food stands and pubs dot the trail around the square at <i>Gabriel's Wharf</i>. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGityC7hZKmgRMGl72Bf2eAjBlvIAAnJy_5vWA9OQ9QYvzNZMgbXB28G20iB9PeBjVWYxODeRBmTZHIflAZZ-ITys6ShhyphenhyphenQqh0AYbowivXSMwquoOqEAlSothoiSQmWUdoOZLxSgveU5mR/s1115/LondonEmbankment_SouthBank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="1115" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGityC7hZKmgRMGl72Bf2eAjBlvIAAnJy_5vWA9OQ9QYvzNZMgbXB28G20iB9PeBjVWYxODeRBmTZHIflAZZ-ITys6ShhyphenhyphenQqh0AYbowivXSMwquoOqEAlSothoiSQmWUdoOZLxSgveU5mR/s320/LondonEmbankment_SouthBank.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Gabriel's Wharf<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />At the 2-kilometer-mark, the <i>Oxo Tower</i> will be visible coming up on the right: it's gone through a few incarnations, first as a power station, then as the <i>Oxo </i>beef-bouillon factory, and now it's a mixed-use place with stores, restaurants, a hotel and flats.<br /><br />You should also be able to see the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral coming up in the distance across the river. Then you head under the Blackfriars car-bridge and then the railroad bridge.<br /><br />Now comes the looming edifice of the <i>Tate Modern Museum</i> on the right, with its huge wall of dark bricks. It's another ex-power plant. The modernistic Millennium footbridge connects the Tate to the cathedral on the other side, making both much more accessible to walkers. Nice idea! </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQgJjasapS_O6G8ExhmSRB2Ceti-ferliHx4B1NI6y-rviHeTfPsqlJn98A4q5t3-NVmugkMUpoTsw8o8VMW3tDJd7P_ZazhaCQufi1uXVsiRcTV5Jpp8iTMAPTe8Z7cxVu6AA73GG9LdU/s2016/LondonEmbankment_MilleniumBridge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQgJjasapS_O6G8ExhmSRB2Ceti-ferliHx4B1NI6y-rviHeTfPsqlJn98A4q5t3-NVmugkMUpoTsw8o8VMW3tDJd7P_ZazhaCQufi1uXVsiRcTV5Jpp8iTMAPTe8Z7cxVu6AA73GG9LdU/s320/LondonEmbankment_MilleniumBridge.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Millennium Bridge, looking towards Tate<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Shakespeare's <i>Globe Theatre</i> comes up right after that, with its Elizabethan theater architecture. <br /><br />Now come a couple of more bridges: Southwark and Cannon Street railway bridge at the 3-km-mark. The trail leaves the river for a few blocks at the <i>Anchor </i>pub, along the narrow lane of Clink Street before you come to the replica of the <i>Golden Hinde</i>. The tiny ship, commanded by Sir Francis Drake, was the first English ship to circumnavigate the world, while raiding Spanish shipping along the way. The resulting treasure was brought back to England, starting the long process of Britain wresting control of the world's seas.<br /><br />You now continue away from the river for a short way as you circle around the back side of Southwark Cathedral, a beautiful old church from the inside. Right behind it, at the railway viaduct, is one of my favorite markets: Borough Market, with lots of gourmet food to be found, of every variety. I used to work in the area, and it was a great place for lunch, open 6 days a week. And a few pubs line the back side to add a good English ale to the menu.<br /><br />Now you run up the stairs and cross the busy A3 road at London Bridge, where the soaring knife's edge of the <i>Shard </i>building dominates the skyline. Run towards the bridge, then run down the stairs at the water's edge to the right to continue at the riverside.<br /><br />Finally back along the water, the skyscrapers of the City of London glitter across the river. In 200 meters, I like to take a quick detour into the <i>Hays Galleria</i>, an ex-wharf where ships once pulled into a tidal-free basin to load and unload. There is a cool, weirdly whimsical sculpture group in the middle of the hall, the <i>Steampunk </i>statue. I'm always fascinated by the strangely British maritime characters. <br /><br />Then continue running past the<i> HMS Belfast</i> cruiser, an impressive World War II beast, with the medieval Tower of London fortress across the river. We're now passing modern office buildings and the globe-shaped City Hall on the right side, a favorite hangout for all the office workers in the neighborhood. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SNY5ptp9F93ThoFPvMiTkiCPO6uXKgH94rKXdDnI2DFRfXG1CuVdQHz2aJe93CtLrXcXsZJAPtyepxL3GvC5FOVQyxTy5vWmXDZL616Y3qrvZleTmcMm7-HDqVa6gzrU471BTLI9CgFx/s2048/LondonEmbankment_TowerBridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SNY5ptp9F93ThoFPvMiTkiCPO6uXKgH94rKXdDnI2DFRfXG1CuVdQHz2aJe93CtLrXcXsZJAPtyepxL3GvC5FOVQyxTy5vWmXDZL616Y3qrvZleTmcMm7-HDqVa6gzrU471BTLI9CgFx/s320/LondonEmbankment_TowerBridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tower Bridge<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />And now we've finally reached it: the halfway point, time to cross the river at the iconic Tower Bridge, maybe the most photogenic bridge in the world.<br /><br />Cross under the bridge and go up the steps to get onto the east side of the bridge, heading across the water. Take a close look at this gem of Victorian engineering, with its Gothic towers hiding the drawbridge-raising machinery, and iron links suspending the bridge below. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSx7D5of7sJVbczo95g4D1-Pnh9U7-jEJ9UMreDhSXu9X-qzEZ8K9tWHO4stMC_79mZX8qd_0xBWolhJFM-fRdCRUrv-ojOIKPSCnCmESGJHjG58J9b_YfknduUK-U4MZ_YSyTZiuW2xc/s2016/LondonEmbankment_GirlWithDolphin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSx7D5of7sJVbczo95g4D1-Pnh9U7-jEJ9UMreDhSXu9X-qzEZ8K9tWHO4stMC_79mZX8qd_0xBWolhJFM-fRdCRUrv-ojOIKPSCnCmESGJHjG58J9b_YfknduUK-U4MZ_YSyTZiuW2xc/s320/LondonEmbankment_GirlWithDolphin.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Girl with Mermaid fountain<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />When on the other side, take the steps down to the ground level and we'll take a short detour to the east, past the Tower Hotel and the <i>Girl and Mermaid</i> fountain to take a quick tour of St. Catherine's Docks. This old dockyard has been restored into a modern marina, but still has its Victorian buildings and boat-locks. It's a quiet, relaxed oasis in the middle of this big city, at the 5-km-mark. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLu1-1vDOkVETVmKaOEzVfu8AgzqUEWk__sye6pLTcrucCmYB2LxWZ5rTGLjubK-N5MtI_aC-vfqcvjS7LwhKiOARZnWEpJ2FODXXsH21AJbX9RVFbInz1qKTa84LXSfwNQpLZabyBaZXN/s2016/LondonEmbankment_StCatherinesBridge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1352" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLu1-1vDOkVETVmKaOEzVfu8AgzqUEWk__sye6pLTcrucCmYB2LxWZ5rTGLjubK-N5MtI_aC-vfqcvjS7LwhKiOARZnWEpJ2FODXXsH21AJbX9RVFbInz1qKTa84LXSfwNQpLZabyBaZXN/s320/LondonEmbankment_StCatherinesBridge.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At St. Catherines<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Just circle the first of the 3 basins by running around the right side, past the <i>Dickens Inn</i> and all its flowers, then take the narrow foot bridge, run past the yachts to the Starbucks in the round temple, then head back out to the Tower Bridge the same way that you came in.<br /><br />Running westwards, head under the Tower Bridge as we pass right by the waterside stone walls of the Tower, another relaxing spot. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIR_Mi9Uf7CWJAaJgdBaP3OEsk78HrfBws8Yuo0GrUMVsfmDd9J8-sUGcusKKR9BW2SYKbug1dsn1DDnmR1L-7OApjMRQMm-z8MFTksHEgBto-j0Csm_pbkwK9TsCvGoevaWCouHZBI7w/s2016/LondonEmbankment_TowerGate.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIR_Mi9Uf7CWJAaJgdBaP3OEsk78HrfBws8Yuo0GrUMVsfmDd9J8-sUGcusKKR9BW2SYKbug1dsn1DDnmR1L-7OApjMRQMm-z8MFTksHEgBto-j0Csm_pbkwK9TsCvGoevaWCouHZBI7w/s320/LondonEmbankment_TowerGate.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gate at the Tower<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Luckily, the modern buildings just past the Tower have included new foot-trails along the water, so a detour away from the river is no longer necessary here. <br /><br />We'll soon pass the tree-lined grandeur of the old Custom House, and continue under London Bridge. The next section of the trail passes some waterside pubs, and if you're there in the early evening, they're full of business-people from the City, drinking a few pints with their colleagues after work. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7CkE62k0E8w-HzYxHtBcbUHvJNjc16NO3bUT-nvK37XLb5ZcNrjfZu9FY5lYqwsw-pVtki3dGlkOmMPZLMbv0vIXIKTeIxDi7m1pYvWS0kV07dg6xukpHiVV7jkgch2TN8xmq1O25DwJ/s2016/LondonEmbankment_CustomHouse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7CkE62k0E8w-HzYxHtBcbUHvJNjc16NO3bUT-nvK37XLb5ZcNrjfZu9FY5lYqwsw-pVtki3dGlkOmMPZLMbv0vIXIKTeIxDi7m1pYvWS0kV07dg6xukpHiVV7jkgch2TN8xmq1O25DwJ/s320/LondonEmbankment_CustomHouse.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Custom House<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />After passing under Southwark Bridge, you'll have to detour away from the water for the last time, as the path goes around the old harbor at Queenhithe. The quay goes back to Roman and Saxon days, although it just looks like a mudflat now. At low tide, people search the muck for treasures and flotsam. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48bgKT2v8nUUYQTiElM2__upzi8-1U405_CB7GDrkzhuXZYJ7nBPDuqZC-LiQaptWVn3X7-Otghs9JfH1cOHSd95zz5FajaY5vZ-Rlti6NuY4YtOyqqUYtNJy78G7P__TYV-tcfg_a5NV/s2016/LondonEmbankment_Queenhithe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48bgKT2v8nUUYQTiElM2__upzi8-1U405_CB7GDrkzhuXZYJ7nBPDuqZC-LiQaptWVn3X7-Otghs9JfH1cOHSd95zz5FajaY5vZ-Rlti6NuY4YtOyqqUYtNJy78G7P__TYV-tcfg_a5NV/s320/LondonEmbankment_Queenhithe.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People treasure-seeking at Queenhithe<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The trail rejoins the river at Paul's Walk, near St. Paul's Cathedral. You'll run under the Millennium footbridge again. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr_X9aga7NFkPVdeKxKYduQpTs5JfNBmejufW6H9BZxq3CspjPtb313ir4y9Hs5Ei8RaGdutUl8g0gDpXQue77onGPr8q1UwK5-QdRf0rLvcgqJbU9nKQVZO_AtdojQmroKRRmEfbhC3YY/s1984/LondonEmbankment_PaulsWalk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1271" data-original-width="1984" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr_X9aga7NFkPVdeKxKYduQpTs5JfNBmejufW6H9BZxq3CspjPtb313ir4y9Hs5Ei8RaGdutUl8g0gDpXQue77onGPr8q1UwK5-QdRf0rLvcgqJbU9nKQVZO_AtdojQmroKRRmEfbhC3YY/s320/LondonEmbankment_PaulsWalk.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Paul's Walk<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Back at Blackfriars Bridge, we're at the 8-km-mark. The section ahead is my favorite part of the route. Although we are now up at street-level for busy Victoria Embankment Road, there is a riverside promenade with the winding-fish streetlamps and with monuments and historic ships docked up for the rest of the way.<br /><br />We'll pass the interesting legal complex in the Temple Gardens across the street, where jurists still (occasionally) run around in their powdered wigs. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKXG91Tm50vQ6WfAj6J9UXJl0KuHvunDjUuDknKRBgJX1QUj6MMj3cL41PYSvNWiNsHijtkmhiqAxBssbKm7WSAd_bCzcVMqrW0lWSb9mEnq6F1xTQIntBFTQDSCQbqfDkPKqtsULQV6a/s1093/LondonEmbankment_VictoriaEmbankment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="1093" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKXG91Tm50vQ6WfAj6J9UXJl0KuHvunDjUuDknKRBgJX1QUj6MMj3cL41PYSvNWiNsHijtkmhiqAxBssbKm7WSAd_bCzcVMqrW0lWSb9mEnq6F1xTQIntBFTQDSCQbqfDkPKqtsULQV6a/s320/LondonEmbankment_VictoriaEmbankment.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along Victoria Embankment<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Just before Waterloo Bridge, at 9 kilometers, we pass the stone elegance of Somerset House, originally built to bring a variety of Royal Navy offices under one roof, the first dedicated military office building in the world.<br /><br />When we get to the Egyptian obelisk, <i>Cleopatra's Needle</i>, let's backtrack a few meters to leave the river for a short bit, crossing the street into Embankment Park. This charming slice of greenery has everything you need in a city park all packed into one compact space: monuments, flower beds, benches full of relaxing office workers, the ancient York Watergate, once the bishop's way down to the river from his palace. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqq_zHX89FJLhSQ0tTTs9WBlI69Qh4lRnccmkAgDqti6nxRPxfKZM6fOZ4rxxLjn4eDdV4C8c5r_mmVjNr7EQkDNoN98UR6ZFrlz1SPpD9a7sS-JO9lSlGAt2uSHP2aOn169Wu72UvRkXA/s1092/LondonEmbankment_EmbankmentPark2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="503" data-original-width="1092" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqq_zHX89FJLhSQ0tTTs9WBlI69Qh4lRnccmkAgDqti6nxRPxfKZM6fOZ4rxxLjn4eDdV4C8c5r_mmVjNr7EQkDNoN98UR6ZFrlz1SPpD9a7sS-JO9lSlGAt2uSHP2aOn169Wu72UvRkXA/s320/LondonEmbankment_EmbankmentPark2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Embankment Park<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Behind the gate, you'll pass the outside seating for Gordon's Wine Bar, a fascinating old bar located in a vaulted-ceiling cellar.<br /><br />At the west end of the park run right into the entrance to Embankment Tube Station (crowded!) and out the other side to cross Victoria Embankment Road again and to continue westwards under Hungerford Bridge and towards Big Ben.<br /><br />We'll pass Scotland Yard at the 10-km-mark, and then other government buildings and more war monuments and historic ships.<br /><br />At the <i>Thames Clipper</i> dock (I recommend you take them to Greenwich sometime!) the steps take you back up to Westminster Bridge, with Parliament and Big Ben right in front of you. Now just run back out to the square to your right and you've finished this amazing run!</p>Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-51935538194734184872020-10-11T13:19:00.002+02:002020-10-11T13:19:44.269+02:00Amrum Island Running Route<p><a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/3477131458" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 4.6 km (2.9 mi), terrain: flat but sometimes hard-going through the loose sand, gain of 10 meters<br /><br /><i>NOTE: If you're staying in nearby Norddorf, you can run along the quiet road through the marsh from the village, or along the dike, further east. This will add 2.3-kilometers in each direction to the run.</i><br /><br />Amrum is my favorite German North Sea island: A varied landscape, small enough to easily explore on a bike but with a few scenic villages and sights. There are windmills, the lighthouse, thatched-roof houses everywhere, a long ridge of dunes running the length of the island, wide (often deserted) beaches that seem to go on forever, and strips of woods, heather and marsh. You won't find a big hotel anywhere.<br /></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwFN0zjyu0D_Qfm-sEOkGlbaMqjXj_5HwA0cI1MBDuxS0cKpTC4L0w-Cw-32EZJzu7LiEA6k1Rjd1tN_KF5eBOmA3NfqGFlC1PCkvbu2aR_BEWLBGcusT-jDjw1EfFNbKyD241Ac5ENqy/s2048/Amrum_NebelStreet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwFN0zjyu0D_Qfm-sEOkGlbaMqjXj_5HwA0cI1MBDuxS0cKpTC4L0w-Cw-32EZJzu7LiEA6k1Rjd1tN_KF5eBOmA3NfqGFlC1PCkvbu2aR_BEWLBGcusT-jDjw1EfFNbKyD241Ac5ENqy/s320/Amrum_NebelStreet.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical Amrum, in the village of Nebel<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />And one of the most natural spots on the island is the narrow northern point, the <i>Odde </i>or also called the <i>Nordspitze</i>.
The whole peninsula is a nature preserve, with long, lonely coasts to
either side. It's a wistful place of hikers, runners, birdwatchers and
shell collectors. It's a place to re-learn how to wonder.</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtNxtY7BdT0n3walzXwz7RYT4fcCUY5WU_r0my8Y3XT2sgcaqWVVHyJF4TI3McWmqgbBY6h4GjtTHq0qgztNVna0SrImYuAQ0G4qFiMlEvgvb7D249CR1YdEPWunwuCw6sYjDj2U7SJc2/s1969/Amrum_Runner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1284" data-original-width="1969" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtNxtY7BdT0n3walzXwz7RYT4fcCUY5WU_r0my8Y3XT2sgcaqWVVHyJF4TI3McWmqgbBY6h4GjtTHq0qgztNVna0SrImYuAQ0G4qFiMlEvgvb7D249CR1YdEPWunwuCw6sYjDj2U7SJc2/s320/Amrum_Runner.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Runner along the Odde<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Like the whole island, the west coast is lined by a wide beach, and the east coast is swampy, submerging into mud flats (the Watt) that stretch to the next island, Föhr. Guided groups of hikers gather at the start of this route to cross the flats at low tide, walking barefoot and in shorts through the occasional deep trench.<br /><br />There's also a bird rescue station in the reserve, which can be visited by making a reservation in advance.<br /><br />But right now, we want to just get out in the wild surroundings, breathe the salty air and bathe in the glory of Mother Nature.<br /><br />We'll start at the beginning of the preserve, about 2.3-kilometers north of the village of Norddorf. There is a parking lot for bikes there, and a map of the island on a board, a meeting point for guided hikes (<i>Treffpunkt</i>). This is on the eastern side, facing the mud flats. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfls_C9VseKzzbExMOssOjef_azHPZxN3N_EkX-TUGVpSC4j4b1ixYARGsVUgA6ChlGEJVpupbnfIFvCU75lTzGfI3eAmcZsoL1peFl87h4Sh_DLPlHxipM1vySo2yW-NetqrBVgXTS1aS/s2048/Amrum_StartOfRun.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfls_C9VseKzzbExMOssOjef_azHPZxN3N_EkX-TUGVpSC4j4b1ixYARGsVUgA6ChlGEJVpupbnfIFvCU75lTzGfI3eAmcZsoL1peFl87h4Sh_DLPlHxipM1vySo2yW-NetqrBVgXTS1aS/s320/Amrum_StartOfRun.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The start: bike racks and map<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The route itself is simple: just head north to the point, then head back again down the west coast and its wide beach.<br /><br />A dirt road heads north for the first couple of minutes, but then ends at the water's side. The dunes of the preserve are fenced-in from now on. You just run in the sand, heading north, along the water. You can see Föhr just a few kilometers to the east. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2it6jbDNiTTeQTwR4NYuay16DcH3NnJnQJe9KqgUme5r8KoJtr98Q7uFxQfVjsUsdfDyKnNrnlrl2FOcP9XKEKV5tWk_tpmimqH-RL06YWk1yABkvEpxS1gv71gIQgzdQSDaw4QwGObR/s2048/Amrum_Beach1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2it6jbDNiTTeQTwR4NYuay16DcH3NnJnQJe9KqgUme5r8KoJtr98Q7uFxQfVjsUsdfDyKnNrnlrl2FOcP9XKEKV5tWk_tpmimqH-RL06YWk1yABkvEpxS1gv71gIQgzdQSDaw4QwGObR/s320/Amrum_Beach1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the east shore, with Föhr to the right<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />I like running as close to the water as possible: it's simpler to run on the wet sand than on the loose, dry sand close to the fence. Depending on the tide, you might be able to run quite a way out on the mud.<br /></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFfca1JRanSWKqnPVpt3Bp2U1TwU-66XfkaYNyBxKZQuCutIuctYp5h3VMO57Zv9xSVDkXk3hcxhAq5a_a6iVQXfCyG8dFlxBacnK-ACcvqBWcXtHXApZFhbe1X6XYUaK71cX4-nVreG3/s1561/Amrum_WattWanderer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1561" data-original-width="1050" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFfca1JRanSWKqnPVpt3Bp2U1TwU-66XfkaYNyBxKZQuCutIuctYp5h3VMO57Zv9xSVDkXk3hcxhAq5a_a6iVQXfCyG8dFlxBacnK-ACcvqBWcXtHXApZFhbe1X6XYUaK71cX4-nVreG3/s320/Amrum_WattWanderer.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group of hikers walking across the mudflats to Föhr<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />At about the 1-kilometer mark, you'll pass the bird rescue station, which you can't really see, hidden up in the dunes.<br /><br />At 2 kilometers, you'll come to the northern point, where you cross the dune and then the wide beach to begin running south. Again, depending on the tide, you might be able to run further out during low tide. <br /></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGESR1fqpWgvT5Q5tgjGqyX87jJw4XbCKt9CKYw0FGbk8gm97RDwgw4703POlC7ovhnAOEqmugBIZ1uKUrliJd6DZ0kz7vTufV4xQY5NW9fTKrFNaXqWkzwU17qNwl8u3uMV3axHuF4pT/s2048/Amrum_NorthernPoint.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1354" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGESR1fqpWgvT5Q5tgjGqyX87jJw4XbCKt9CKYw0FGbk8gm97RDwgw4703POlC7ovhnAOEqmugBIZ1uKUrliJd6DZ0kz7vTufV4xQY5NW9fTKrFNaXqWkzwU17qNwl8u3uMV3axHuF4pT/s320/Amrum_NorthernPoint.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern point of the island<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />This side has a whole different feel from the mudflats: here are waves breaking on the beach, with piles of shells that collect in low spots. This side is more exposed to the wind.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcXAb-YwJ-6avbDYsidtWfNd2MB_oDyhNtVy28-TDamoATJ_3jQ4SAU9TmmKrz-gv-LJxtFFTo2egBWE4V1lYYZj3KsXNJL2zxKXKxd6B_-I4nOIe-uDSOfqmk8lgIsUU0kNuqJ4wUYX-/s2048/Amrum_WestBeach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1311" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcXAb-YwJ-6avbDYsidtWfNd2MB_oDyhNtVy28-TDamoATJ_3jQ4SAU9TmmKrz-gv-LJxtFFTo2egBWE4V1lYYZj3KsXNJL2zxKXKxd6B_-I4nOIe-uDSOfqmk8lgIsUU0kNuqJ4wUYX-/s320/Amrum_WestBeach.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wide west beach<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>After 4 kilometers, start watching for the sandy path that cuts through the dunes to get you back to the starting place. There is a green-and-white nature-preserve sign there, and lots of footprints leading you into the dune.<br /><i></i></p><p><i><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMrcA1TgK2HwkNXbiqRwiKFWtgVK-hU7RoqZh8yVuNeWyzvj73n64VgCtnobmU8Zv_rEeMCwZyIw1xXcv9RAHPdYhH8SM4KRIV_PwoztgNPhpnnwpGDrYvMnRVYgNmeUrZ_utZ_SgXTekP/s2048/Amrum_WayBack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1546" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMrcA1TgK2HwkNXbiqRwiKFWtgVK-hU7RoqZh8yVuNeWyzvj73n64VgCtnobmU8Zv_rEeMCwZyIw1xXcv9RAHPdYhH8SM4KRIV_PwoztgNPhpnnwpGDrYvMnRVYgNmeUrZ_utZ_SgXTekP/s320/Amrum_WayBack.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Path cutting across the dunes<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />NOTE: You could also continue southwards along the beach if you want to get back to Norddorf: you can see the buildings of beachside restaurant at Norddorf Beach straight ahead.</i></p><p>The beach gets more active around here. The Norddorf surf schools drag their equipment out the the water here for classes, which are fun to watch.</p><p><i><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisu5oJ6HHT_seFttFnm4-B_uhsCpURJy55M_IYfy9eHPiSNQoqFiykisQuZw2x0Q2nL0lAHHIXKCiqKwe9GzqkTvT5JUjgf_YecrT5EMyZMMfpxbxsboPS3rEqp1Q-Zit6OPgDWM2czpLP/s2048/Amrum_Windsurfers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisu5oJ6HHT_seFttFnm4-B_uhsCpURJy55M_IYfy9eHPiSNQoqFiykisQuZw2x0Q2nL0lAHHIXKCiqKwe9GzqkTvT5JUjgf_YecrT5EMyZMMfpxbxsboPS3rEqp1Q-Zit6OPgDWM2czpLP/s320/Amrum_Windsurfers.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Windsurf class for kids on the west beach<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <br /></i></p><p></p>Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-10893293703551721042020-06-30T00:23:00.002+02:002020-06-30T00:24:51.664+02:00Schlei Fjord Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/3235162750" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0f9d58;"><font size="5">Click here for route map</font></span></a> <br /><br />Length 7.2 km (4.5 mi), terrain: a few short ups and downs on a flat trail, gain of 0 meters<br /><br />It's not well-known internationally, but several fjords cut their way into the northernmost German Baltic coast. And one of the nicest fjords is the Schlei, a 42-kilometer-long inlet stretching southwest from its mouth on the Baltic at Maasholm.<br /><br /><div>Unlike the steep, mountainous fjords in Norway, those in Denmark and Germany are nestled in sandy hills, dug out by ice-age glacier tongues, or by their melted runoff. The Schlei can seem as wide as an ocean and as narrow as a small river, lined by pastures and woods, dotted by sand cliffs and manor farms.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-FJyr5LrCnRBhrZI3_qQN3eJ4k8ZL2DoWawkWf_ItTL5WGnB8Y33EYCa5L4MdB2MoyA1tJD0vIpNHjfi1eZM5e-4TqLvNBWVze4668seHYeCgt-fiEjHHY-BbZPDDz8MwPT6JOJUInJt/s4032/Schlei_Cliffs1.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-FJyr5LrCnRBhrZI3_qQN3eJ4k8ZL2DoWawkWf_ItTL5WGnB8Y33EYCa5L4MdB2MoyA1tJD0vIpNHjfi1eZM5e-4TqLvNBWVze4668seHYeCgt-fiEjHHY-BbZPDDz8MwPT6JOJUInJt/s320/Schlei_Cliffs1.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the Schlei</td></tr></tbody></table><br />This route follows part of the Schlei's southern shore, along the Schlei Wanderweg, a hiking trail that lines several sections of the inlet.<br /><br />This running route connects two fjord-side manor farms, Büstorf and Stubbe, near the scenic towns of Rieseby and Sieseby. It follows a very quiet section of the Schlei hiking trail, with several secluded beaches and a lot of nice lookouts over the fjord, then returning on the same trail. It's an inspiring place to be out and about!<br /><br />We'll start the run at the Büstorf end, as there is a public parking lot there. At the Stubbe Manor end, you have to park further from the trail.<div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_bHPHKal0a9SgztCl87sBhd7wbtxGXaQGhOqSSfXSqXngPM_6ZUf5rYXgAA3g_sy9GQZcmi5n5UBb4pCxiWfJ0pjtntwaca73VVPGegwJAF-7yWyLZxkL39GvEPpY1Z19HvOBNYrunWEK/s3309/Schlei_B%25C3%25BCstorfCarpark.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2256" data-original-width="3309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_bHPHKal0a9SgztCl87sBhd7wbtxGXaQGhOqSSfXSqXngPM_6ZUf5rYXgAA3g_sy9GQZcmi5n5UBb4pCxiWfJ0pjtntwaca73VVPGegwJAF-7yWyLZxkL39GvEPpY1Z19HvOBNYrunWEK/s320/Schlei_B%25C3%25BCstorfCarpark.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The carpark in Büstorf<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div>So, if you're ready to get going, the turnoff to Büstorf is along the road from Kosel to Rieseby, just a half-kilometer southwest of Rieseby. There is a parking lot for hikers.</div><br />Now just continue north on the road the short way to the shore, and from then on northeastwards past the little marina (<i>Wassersportverein Rieseby</i>).<br /><br />From now on, there are no more buildings or roads until we reach the Stubbe manor. The first part of the trail, directly at the water's edge, is a bit rough, with swampy spots and some deep sand.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvroa8EliTvMbcvNFr0z1ryddqUERbo_PHsno_oxjzz80uGPgcbIRDHOGya5GAp-g-19WnRsnEB44fvhaFiXYEFiSReL9Mw9g5UqIWKi5rtY0ITvB4exAN4HqShVr_hDprJPGAI9MO22T/s3229/Schlei_WatersideTrail.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2180" data-original-width="3229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvroa8EliTvMbcvNFr0z1ryddqUERbo_PHsno_oxjzz80uGPgcbIRDHOGya5GAp-g-19WnRsnEB44fvhaFiXYEFiSReL9Mw9g5UqIWKi5rtY0ITvB4exAN4HqShVr_hDprJPGAI9MO22T/s320/Schlei_WatersideTrail.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterside running<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>It then gets a bit higher and dryer, heading into beech woods and meadows. Out over the water, sailboats cross the glittering reflections. <br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59x6uI63ZsJY8L34NUxA8CNB0_vBEzl76UOIaSdUysgWtovyLjY1yFDwquGrWDNZIgMXBsMZ7WGroenHjg-YYyLeWdbM7FIKiJMHYdLO56h8CMDfAG-yzVW4YeQYdgVhJswhG2O6C0zvI/s4032/Schlei_Beach.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59x6uI63ZsJY8L34NUxA8CNB0_vBEzl76UOIaSdUysgWtovyLjY1yFDwquGrWDNZIgMXBsMZ7WGroenHjg-YYyLeWdbM7FIKiJMHYdLO56h8CMDfAG-yzVW4YeQYdgVhJswhG2O6C0zvI/s320/Schlei_Beach.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little swimming spot<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div></div><div>You'll pass a few first secluded swimming spots, and a place where people balance stones into little pyramids.<br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikS7Q8ZxCQFBChhHHDQGqs0GPWyXrn60sj7iQVSHelNwVzwxOJF0BLZdX35fDdNh9_gisgu5BPqmyJWh1YaZEI1Z5k_gfL15GcVwiTbKviWcbvMelhahucFqZHH3ojvHNCQFnSrSbpOqAf/s2833/Schlei_StonePyramids.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2139" data-original-width="2833" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikS7Q8ZxCQFBChhHHDQGqs0GPWyXrn60sj7iQVSHelNwVzwxOJF0BLZdX35fDdNh9_gisgu5BPqmyJWh1YaZEI1Z5k_gfL15GcVwiTbKviWcbvMelhahucFqZHH3ojvHNCQFnSrSbpOqAf/s320/Schlei_StonePyramids.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stone pyramids<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>After 1.5 kilometers, for the next 500 meters, the waterside trail starts taking some steep ups and downs, and there is a spot with a huge fallen beech tree blocking the path. To avoid those, you can follow the nicer path as it goes through the woods, parallel to shore, but inland a bit. Or you can take the challenging shore path, which is what is followed in this route map. I like this route best, with more water views, creek crossings and secluded inlets.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiU4QxfPZBG6OdINvEyBkKF4rMAfbye28alAnoc9chyphenhyphenkQtZG2NpicuQ8xlIVlrB8G8WRj6-7KL1IXiRYEqygwNrV7l5znPuggKPRGx43Sp-xs02Z70fkDEZRmRWR3R4LWMcs7tCuhGAPlP/s3121/Schlei_Stream.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2307" data-original-width="3121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiU4QxfPZBG6OdINvEyBkKF4rMAfbye28alAnoc9chyphenhyphenkQtZG2NpicuQ8xlIVlrB8G8WRj6-7KL1IXiRYEqygwNrV7l5znPuggKPRGx43Sp-xs02Z70fkDEZRmRWR3R4LWMcs7tCuhGAPlP/s320/Schlei_Stream.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing a stream without a bridge<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>You'll then head back into woods for the rest of the way into Stubbe. The Stubbe farm is beautiful, and you might want to take a turn to the left to see it. There's a cafe there, too. <br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJpQQ0jiFJacHB7jqAqjnJxe7TQVX-0mD_NOqssyVuPsKMzv9e-utVmhe15SCqjNXZGNT_wZ9cLbC3e58TclFyAwZnbjzK6CgkvlKzjsY6PJsaTtW-4cz316m4B2YRye8wqqI7gFyMgtT/s2919/Schlei_StubbeGatehouse.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2158" data-original-width="2919" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJpQQ0jiFJacHB7jqAqjnJxe7TQVX-0mD_NOqssyVuPsKMzv9e-utVmhe15SCqjNXZGNT_wZ9cLbC3e58TclFyAwZnbjzK6CgkvlKzjsY6PJsaTtW-4cz316m4B2YRye8wqqI7gFyMgtT/s320/Schlei_StubbeGatehouse.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gate-house to the Stubbe mansion<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>This is the turn-around spot. Now follow the same waterside trail back to the parking lot in Büstorf.<br /><br /><span style="color: #0f9d58;"><font size="5">Vikings on the Schlei</font></span><br /><br />There are a lot of Viking remains in the area, especially at the west end of the Schlei, near the main town of Schleswig. There is the archeological site of Haithabu (Hedeby) on a little side-arm of the Schlei. Haithabu was an important Viking trading town, where goods were unloaded from Baltic ships and carried westwards over land to the Eider River, where it was again put on boats and shipped out to the North Sea. Some of the Haithabu buildings have been rebuilt on their original locations, and local people reinact some of the village inhabitants, exhibiting their crafts. There's also an interactive museum. Check for more details <a href="https://www.ostseefjordschlei.com/regions-cities/viking-city-of-schleswig/hedeby-viking-museum/" target="_blank">here</a>. <br /><br />And starting in Haithabu, a long earthen wall, the <i>Dannewerk </i>(spelled <i>Danevirke </i>in Danish), begins, guarding the land to the Eider, much like Hadrian's Wall did in Britain. It was built to protect Denmark's southern border from Saxons and Slavs encroaching from the south and east. <br /><br />You can also find several big stones carved with Viking runes in the area, and a few were moved to the Haithabu museum. Enjoy your stay!<br />Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-80991803496628115862020-05-15T11:46:00.002+02:002020-05-15T11:46:56.733+02:00Budapest Danube/Buda Hills Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/3085345102" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br />
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Length 12 km (7.5 mi), terrain: as the name says, hilly!, gain of 243 meters<br />
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<i>NOTE: You can save 2km and the steep climb up Gellért Hill by crossing the Elizabeth Bridge and running directly to Buda Castle.</i><br />
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<i>I didn't have a camera with me when I ran this, so I used pictures from Google Maps Street View. Thanks Google!</i><br />
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In most European cities, you can't go wrong running along the riverfront. Budapest is another of those towns, and it has the advantage of lining the majestic Danube. And even better, many of the city's best sights are located at, or just off, the river, and among the neighboring hills. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFBHPtxB-ibR7QqnI25OSZEAfI9KmoLVhgfAhyXXzv7CTIMSLdOFH1ld30ys2iK-WQPZkOidTQoRVqUoWGXSFAV6Ssgsv7HMm22JuI_ja5WVMRcSzcDXThkomyzPA23Yajyc3jTrNiAn0J/s1600/Budapest_PalaceFront.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="1138" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFBHPtxB-ibR7QqnI25OSZEAfI9KmoLVhgfAhyXXzv7CTIMSLdOFH1ld30ys2iK-WQPZkOidTQoRVqUoWGXSFAV6Ssgsv7HMm22JuI_ja5WVMRcSzcDXThkomyzPA23Yajyc3jTrNiAn0J/s320/Budapest_PalaceFront.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Danube view from the Buda Palace</td></tr>
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The Danube, powerfully flowing through and separating Buda (with its hilltop castles and old town) from Pest (on the east side, with the downtown) is lined by historic, stunning buildings and crossed by one of the world's most scenic bridges. You'll run by the gothic fairy-tale of the Parliament building, climb up two hills, through castle ramparts to a fortress and to the huge old Habsburg palace, and end up crossing a quiet garden of an island.<br />
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My first trip to Budapest was in the 1990s, not long after the Iron Curtain came down, and much of the city was still waiting to come back to life after 50 years of neglect. Almost all the facades in the <i>Terézváros </i>and <i>Erzsébetváros </i>sections of the new-town (okay, it was new in the 1800s) were half crumbled-off, and when I wandered into apartment courtyards I'd be surrounded by a forest of pine logs that were provisionally jammed up under the wooden walkways above to keep them from collapsing into the yard.<br />
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Now the city has moved on and rejuvenated itself, and it is no longer a sad echo of its elegant old self. The same neighborhoods which were once decayed ruins are now pulsing with life, full of shops and restaurants. Although there are still lots of crumbling facades, they just add a funky flavor to a vibrant mix.<br />
<br />
<i>NOTE: Just a notice about running along the Danube: the riverside isn't exactly pedestrian-friendly. On the eastern shore (downtown), a tram-railway parallels the river, along with a street. Sometimes the best place to run (quieter, greener) is a bit away from the river, on the far side of the railway. And sometimes it's better on the river-side of the railway. And at other times it's better run right next to the water. But there are sections where the waterside sidewalks disappear and you have to cross back across the street. No big problem: just take the sidewalk that appeals to you best for that section of the river. I like boats, so I try to stay at the water's edge as much as possible. On the Buda side of the river, there is also a tram-railway, and a road hugs the riverside for the whole way, so you have to take the sidewalk between the tram tracks and the river road, following the tree-line. Good thing that we're up visiting the hills for most of that side of the river!</i><br />
<br />
So let's head out to discover some of the nicest parts of town, down by the Danube and up into the Buda hills. We'll start the run at <i>Szabadság tér</i> (Liberty Square), just a couple of blocks east of the river, in the <i>Lipótváros </i>neighborhood, the downtown. Standing there at the Soviet war memorial, the square is surrounded by elegant bank headquarters buildings. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOszgMYu3azIZYkpK5TqzmBs9sTs9EQUmUPkuWbNwEGPUrrLcmKXdg9AsPLXJcVwzZQlKDb-pcHnh65RTOq4EKJVeyVmUH0MB5URHS932tz6jQRtcKy47QnpqbCW2nPOB1LAlgclNFtLgE/s1600/Budapest_LibertySquare.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="981" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOszgMYu3azIZYkpK5TqzmBs9sTs9EQUmUPkuWbNwEGPUrrLcmKXdg9AsPLXJcVwzZQlKDb-pcHnh65RTOq4EKJVeyVmUH0MB5URHS932tz6jQRtcKy47QnpqbCW2nPOB1LAlgclNFtLgE/s320/Budapest_LibertySquare.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liberty Square, start of run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To get moving, leave the square to the northwest, along Vécsey utca (utca is, of course, "street"). This takes you in one block to the square behind the stunning, gothic Hungarian Parliament building. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPLFDqvw9smPC0qtzy1S-X4yB0Q799eIyL1dHxvfzDCnbh4oQHFxOnnpruBjnG2S78wVQ4y4_WK9lAUdQY_HhuvbSlihkDYdHC7aDiok77Hw7bH2mop6V8XtfgnMRw2p43-DcRrcQkjdV0/s1600/Budapest_Parliament.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="1060" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPLFDqvw9smPC0qtzy1S-X4yB0Q799eIyL1dHxvfzDCnbh4oQHFxOnnpruBjnG2S78wVQ4y4_WK9lAUdQY_HhuvbSlihkDYdHC7aDiok77Hw7bH2mop6V8XtfgnMRw2p43-DcRrcQkjdV0/s320/Budapest_Parliament.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Parliament</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now turn left and run along Kossuth Lajos tér (<i>tér </i>means "square") to the river, a block to the west. There are zebra-stripes to cross the busy shore road, "Id. Antall József rkp." This is one of the few easy spots to get to the water, as the railroad tracks run underground at the parliament and don't block the way here.<br />
<br />
So now we turn south and enjoy the Danube riverside. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7dVjD8zVfUFcmIiWNcOuCGXyBacSNwKfXl6dsAb5D8D89TnwOlvGjMFDZv3TITQMxedtbGwpnJoNc0PIHE-0qFGaRnOsabzJIrUhFFb5YWzfRSDOUslUhVnPxS25mmUaadlvycpgHnXw3/s1600/Budapest_DanubeShoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1076" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7dVjD8zVfUFcmIiWNcOuCGXyBacSNwKfXl6dsAb5D8D89TnwOlvGjMFDZv3TITQMxedtbGwpnJoNc0PIHE-0qFGaRnOsabzJIrUhFFb5YWzfRSDOUslUhVnPxS25mmUaadlvycpgHnXw3/s320/Budapest_DanubeShoes.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shoes along the Danube</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In just a block, you'll pass a sculpture of metal shoes lining the shore. This marks the spot where some unlucky very Hungarian Jews were executed and pushed into the river by fascists during the last phase of World War II, just as the Soviets were about to enter the city and liberate them.<br />
<br />
Continuing, this is one of the nicest parts of the riverside, with bushes and trees, a bit away from the street. You can see the two hills across the river in Buda, where we'll run on the way back. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWivA8Bc-RkEpBuwhMAWTyckfiGWVFxPvOLj9bljgJ1qjBLe1DumW6eYgi5LuH8K0GtpBz03Cc33zHXtsfXs2OdL6z5hWfstHBAmwW6PKcxBPVCIQp9Jyv-T9bfOLepfNS4cuDQ4x1FD4/s1600/Budapest_DanubeEastShore.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="1061" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWivA8Bc-RkEpBuwhMAWTyckfiGWVFxPvOLj9bljgJ1qjBLe1DumW6eYgi5LuH8K0GtpBz03Cc33zHXtsfXs2OdL6z5hWfstHBAmwW6PKcxBPVCIQp9Jyv-T9bfOLepfNS4cuDQ4x1FD4/s320/Budapest_DanubeEastShore.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The eastern shore, with view of Buda Castle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In a few blocks, at the 1-kilometer mark, we'll come to a main highlight of the run, the chain bridge (<i>Széchenyi Lánchíd</i>), a 180-year-old monument to the technology of the industrial revolution. If the chains look familiar, maybe it's because there are similar ones on the <i>Tower Bridge</i> in London. Little wonder, because it was a British engineer, Clark Adam, who designed this beautiful bridge. I like to run out to the middle of the bridge, to view it up closer, and to get a great view of the river. You might want to try it. Then run back to the Pest shore to continue running southwards. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYOOz-FoUxKVKZhyuWaEynXFQrux31X0HD3osx-D1L-WlARtMGAFiu17Wa-SGHs-54l5EfR8FIVP2is_ANZ4n_-d0LE9SG0Cy_YHj1QlzOlyYRQeJmAO8sp6aV2sI_voNEt6-Cbw_3n64/s1600/Budapest_ChainBridge2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="1120" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYOOz-FoUxKVKZhyuWaEynXFQrux31X0HD3osx-D1L-WlARtMGAFiu17Wa-SGHs-54l5EfR8FIVP2is_ANZ4n_-d0LE9SG0Cy_YHj1QlzOlyYRQeJmAO8sp6aV2sI_voNEt6-Cbw_3n64/s320/Budapest_ChainBridge2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chain Bridge with Buda Castle to left</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can see the domed roof of the castle, the old Habsburg palace on the hilltop directly across the river.<br />
<br />
The shore road now changes its name to <i>Jane Haining rkp</i>., and the nice riverside walkway gives way to a narrow strip between the street guardrail and the water's edge, with lots of riverboats tied up here. There is a nicer sidewalk with some parkland off to the left, on the far side of the train tracks, if you prefer.<br />
<br />
We'll then go under a modern suspension bridge, the Elizabeth Bridge (<i>Erzsébet híd</i>) and keep heading south.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ksu4FMTqdX6c9uhoCzte8siSKZDlG8WlzI-clO40xnJuqY1wha2FwXrMede-c1K27XJ0qml-nxPpAupMFhYd1mNhAqTwzt7nuxhFURJeD0pxJf4Ml2M9Z2UDr8-LiC-sWOM99MyWqDXL/s1600/Budapest_ViewToGellertHill.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="1083" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ksu4FMTqdX6c9uhoCzte8siSKZDlG8WlzI-clO40xnJuqY1wha2FwXrMede-c1K27XJ0qml-nxPpAupMFhYd1mNhAqTwzt7nuxhFURJeD0pxJf4Ml2M9Z2UDr8-LiC-sWOM99MyWqDXL/s320/Budapest_ViewToGellertHill.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View to Gellert Hill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We're now passing the second hill (Gellert Hill), even higher than the first, across the river. You can see the massive fortress perched on its ridge, and the freedom monument rising above it. The fort was built by the Habsburg kaiser following the 1848 revolution, to prevent further uprisings in Budapest.<br />
<br />
After passing more riverboat docks, at the 3-kilometer mark, you'll approach the beautiful Liberty Bridge (<i>Szabadság Híd</i>), another Nineteenth Century iron bridge.<br />
<br />
This is as far south as we'll go: we'll cross over to the Buda side
now. But before we do, notice the palace just south of the bridge
containing the <i>Corvinus University</i>. And behind it is another beautiful Victorian-era structure, the iron-and-glass market hall (<i>Nagy Vásárcsarnok</i>). Make sure you take the time to wander around it and its hundreds of interest little stands while you're in Budapest!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ4VUKUc84NzJ9UJNb64W4v3tQU1hQrWQv0ifk_v8-zuMh4-x63AuvUB_OG8aAsJe56_UYi0aYUK2SOV8QuQNH_ZyWobPDNyfuvaseInUwMhviOCPP0qDaUjP7ApZqMw8e1aqv_uM6BiM8/s1600/Budapest_LibertyBridge2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="1103" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ4VUKUc84NzJ9UJNb64W4v3tQU1hQrWQv0ifk_v8-zuMh4-x63AuvUB_OG8aAsJe56_UYi0aYUK2SOV8QuQNH_ZyWobPDNyfuvaseInUwMhviOCPP0qDaUjP7ApZqMw8e1aqv_uM6BiM8/s320/Budapest_LibertyBridge2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing Liberty Bridge, Gellert Hill to right</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Take a look at all the ornate ironwork on the bridge as you cross, crowned with mythic turul birds on the towers.<br />
<br />
As we approach the other side, you can see the cliffs, topped by a cross on the south end of Gellért Hill. That will be our first sight on the run up the hill. And notice to the left, the huge, palace-like <i>Hotel Gellért</i> and its beautiful baths elegantly gracing the riverside.<br />
<br />
Cross the riverside road and the tram tracks at the zebra stripes and continue straight up the ramp-like sidewalk under the cliffs to your right. We'll be heading uphill for a while (a 120-meter gain), from now on! The whole hill is full of zig-zagging trails, and it really doesn't matter much which ones you take, as long as you keep going upwards to the <i>Citadella </i>(fort) at the top.<br />
<br />
At the next junction turn right to run a few steps to the chapel built into the caves in the cliff face. This was once the home of a hermit monk who treated people with healing spring water from the cave. Later, a chapel was built there, and a real bath. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZMSoUAijDzcQ9keXrHsmDObEa6N64aza6P4Uw89lo6MQUUnGWRb3GpC2f_vfgZxWjhdbkQWDhh12Mt4yPnJBy6STQbKVsFHyUZ8-ZRYusQ1j_8W5ets9vH3SdNeLuQiIWOUje4k7bWRWU/s1600/Budapest_GellertHillTrail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="1117" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZMSoUAijDzcQ9keXrHsmDObEa6N64aza6P4Uw89lo6MQUUnGWRb3GpC2f_vfgZxWjhdbkQWDhh12Mt4yPnJBy6STQbKVsFHyUZ8-ZRYusQ1j_8W5ets9vH3SdNeLuQiIWOUje4k7bWRWU/s320/Budapest_GellertHillTrail.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gellert Hill trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But we're just looking from the outside, so now turn around and run back a few steps until the first trail going uphill to the right. The hill provides a refreshing dip into nature: it's wooded, and we'll stay on the steep side overlooking the river as it heads uphill. Mostly, the trails are paved ramps, but in some spots there are steps. In the steeper spots, I just switch to walking, which is still workout enough for me.<br />
<br />
There are occasional spots with viewpoints along the way, which are good chances to catch your breath. <br />
<br />
When you finally reach the southeast corner of the <i>Citadella</i>, you'll enter a paved terrace with a Hungarian freedom monument. There are also great views to every side here. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-hTAGZP9aTf02w6MQUOXMuxCprknCFW4H0BOiC6kPP4KSknFGF1Oc20n_pCMbtBjf4DMdJ6lnQMs0vEtZ5li67SVhW49o9hNoxi5TjyGcOu_JwwJx9CyqP_sviAFe9RPYIjlttToFLSY/s1600/Budapest_CitadellaFreedomMonument.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="1117" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-hTAGZP9aTf02w6MQUOXMuxCprknCFW4H0BOiC6kPP4KSknFGF1Oc20n_pCMbtBjf4DMdJ6lnQMs0vEtZ5li67SVhW49o9hNoxi5TjyGcOu_JwwJx9CyqP_sviAFe9RPYIjlttToFLSY/s320/Budapest_CitadellaFreedomMonument.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freedom Monument at the Citadella</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now continue along the flat trail behind the monument and to the right, following the north wall of the fortress. Outside the main entrance, there are stands set up selling food, drink and souvenirs. You have to buy tickets to go inside the fort. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnUPWM-SU-fkK4BezIhElgBTMJDE3gg6rjC41qe1alKovAM4RHqPOO23diW4fC5WZY5GHPy3Fm9W4BReE_EQiRWUKkWIUcBNWygPbs9x3ae5JZHkgo2FOjVDgIskb-BDdaYA_T01trssOL/s1600/Budapest_CitadellaMainGate.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="1129" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnUPWM-SU-fkK4BezIhElgBTMJDE3gg6rjC41qe1alKovAM4RHqPOO23diW4fC5WZY5GHPy3Fm9W4BReE_EQiRWUKkWIUcBNWygPbs9x3ae5JZHkgo2FOjVDgIskb-BDdaYA_T01trssOL/s320/Budapest_CitadellaMainGate.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main Gate at the Citadella</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a last look out from this great viewpoint, take the steps down, across from the main fort entrance, and then the path to the right. This runs into the <i>Citadella Lejtó</i> trail, where you turn left and follow it all the way down the hill to the river at the Elizabeth Bridge.<br />
<br />
There are a few roads coming together there, you need to take the zebra stripes over to Döbrentei Square, a circular park with a statue of Empress Elizabeth (the ever-popular <i>Sissi</i>). This is the 5-kilometer-mark, and we're next to the river road.<br />
<br />
Now exit the park to the north, running under the overpass, cross the tram tracks and a street and continuing straight into <i>Döbrentei utca</i>.<br />
<br />
We now run north, past a few little museums and hotels, and cross <i>Ybl Miklós ter</i> at the <i>History Museum</i>, with some statues of World War I soldiers out front.<br />
<br />
Continue north along the ornate walls of the castle gardens. We're almost ready to head up the second (and last) hill to the palaces and the old town of Buda on the top. Luckily, this hill isn't very high. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFKGObS6iY5iUuss4Pcq-GvfoHjZAFzP2UWUFWpgzbZo0vZmueemJqM-OeanbpayrUVZrG9yr6get_8F2FNraqtU2cdSD_-NEyPLNd548eNSdbNpOlM9DqrZzQikukTmKHV8nogmXjBKB/s1600/Budapest_PalaceGardensBazar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="1103" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFKGObS6iY5iUuss4Pcq-GvfoHjZAFzP2UWUFWpgzbZo0vZmueemJqM-OeanbpayrUVZrG9yr6get_8F2FNraqtU2cdSD_-NEyPLNd548eNSdbNpOlM9DqrZzQikukTmKHV8nogmXjBKB/s320/Budapest_PalaceGardensBazar.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Palace Bazaar: head through that archway!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When you come to the <i>Várkert Bazár</i> (castle garden bazaar), turn left to run through its ornate archway to take the trail zig-zagging up the hill through the gardens. This is the 6-kilometer-mark, half-way home. This uphill section isn't so steep and only gains 60 meters.<br />
<br />
Keep to the left as you run uphill below a little round fort, the <i>Rondella</i>. When you can get a good view of the fort, take the path going straight up to it, then keep on the path to the left. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwsYvBXu0q5F3GUp3blEgX6Lhzu_BXCRB1GpktmPwcS8gzOTZalDB00D7IMmA9cvGtEZHoVi0PYPuD3vGo0TsPXBp2M9N-C1x2R2604WIwwdqWYRrCVckmvrm3VCPVLOl5NdZ3SBf-vpF/s1600/Budapest_PalaceWallEntrance.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="1099" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwsYvBXu0q5F3GUp3blEgX6Lhzu_BXCRB1GpktmPwcS8gzOTZalDB00D7IMmA9cvGtEZHoVi0PYPuD3vGo0TsPXBp2M9N-C1x2R2604WIwwdqWYRrCVckmvrm3VCPVLOl5NdZ3SBf-vpF/s320/Budapest_PalaceWallEntrance.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Way into the palace walls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You'll run through a gate in the castle wall next to the round tower, and find yourself in a courtyard next to the <i>National Library</i>. Now turn right and run out the other gate in the wall, and then follow the path to the left as it follows the outside of the castle wall.<br />
<br />
This will take you right up to the courtyard in front of <i>Buda Castle</i>, a spectacular palace where the Habsburg kaisers resided when they were in Budapest in their role as Kings of Hungary. The palace was badly damaged during World War II, and it was rebuilt in a simplified style. There are various museums and libraries in the buildings nowadays. The place looks magical all lit up in the evenings. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz3E4KkrpnAtI9tshDjT2VSbwEjfitMWggsgUKcrqXDCW3o-VHBtQfkMbMyfQ-T4rbM4W90HBZ6E96WlEwDPQldZqzifkG8T74rtdYnCxk9lKBY5UgYXN1gY8evQdlvZuSY85FN-_qaqZS/s1600/Budapest_PalaceFront2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="1124" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz3E4KkrpnAtI9tshDjT2VSbwEjfitMWggsgUKcrqXDCW3o-VHBtQfkMbMyfQ-T4rbM4W90HBZ6E96WlEwDPQldZqzifkG8T74rtdYnCxk9lKBY5UgYXN1gY8evQdlvZuSY85FN-_qaqZS/s320/Budapest_PalaceFront2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Terrace in front of palace</td></tr>
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So now, while we're up here on the hilltop, we'll want to explore some of the inspiring scenery in the nearby old town.<br />
<br />
So continue running northward, past the main palace, quickly coming to the next one, <i>Sandor Palace</i>, still used by the Hungarian government as residence of the Hungarian President. There is an hourly changing of the guards, which you might see if you're there at the right time (on the hour, until 5 p.m.). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYGAgQvOIe12norGLy9pgprasRF-sbbrzj5QYE05XlJpRkqd3FLLgLNk-HFWKTHOLXp3tcBq8iIxMMU3xpQwKdy4UGoerKPYFYVdTC4KdcufJchsKrP3OeF4hbSTRHUB8rmClwxu1NAIw/s1600/Budapest_SandorPalace.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="1114" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYGAgQvOIe12norGLy9pgprasRF-sbbrzj5QYE05XlJpRkqd3FLLgLNk-HFWKTHOLXp3tcBq8iIxMMU3xpQwKdy4UGoerKPYFYVdTC4KdcufJchsKrP3OeF4hbSTRHUB8rmClwxu1NAIw/s320/Budapest_SandorPalace.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sandor Presidential Palace, with guards</td></tr>
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Now continue northwards and into <i>Disz ter</i> in the old town, following this street past the old houses and get a feel for this charming hilltop town.<br />
<br />
In a couple of blocks you'll come to the beautiful Gothic St. Matthias Church (<i>Mátyás Templom</i>), a church which has been built and rebuilt for ages. We'll now loop through the next neighborhood to come back here in a few minutes. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7nt1JhwVioAj3wtquNzki3xpCb7T5jd1U2GohOVZ1zl0dYCZ3Ma1HCmZVFHOM_LynwupqK2-7Wk03VBA9NWxSarZ_n4higraVfOWt5ocxkc0t1gQDxTDFSk7vu8DUvD_Y1U8L_ReXBDk/s1600/Budapest_StMatthias.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="827" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7nt1JhwVioAj3wtquNzki3xpCb7T5jd1U2GohOVZ1zl0dYCZ3Ma1HCmZVFHOM_LynwupqK2-7Wk03VBA9NWxSarZ_n4higraVfOWt5ocxkc0t1gQDxTDFSk7vu8DUvD_Y1U8L_ReXBDk/s320/Budapest_StMatthias.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Matthias with Holy Trinity column</td></tr>
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At the baroque <i>Holy Trinity</i> statue (erected to commemorate the ending of the plague, run northwest along narrow <i>Országház utca</i>, lined with old homes and mansions.<br />
<br />
When you come to the ruins of <i>Mary Magdalena Church</i> (a former Franciscan monastery, bombed-out in the war), turn right onto <i>Nándor utca</i>. Then, at the <i>National Archives</i>, take the next right to follow beautiful <i>Fortuna utca</i>. (or equally nice <i>Miháli utca</i>) back to St. Matthias. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkqilPVJylEOtoJOHYtfvrnFVcscnnVT0yxy9TnkuACDKAbe91cZKXzhZJP0dOAZm7MoF2B8HGcvepX0a8kyJ9W9FVdSlqmX-Tr-asSKn5j0Zaaa1IgdupHJcGwnTQD9B7O8Es74UWhMQ/s1600/Budapest_FortunaStreet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="518" data-original-width="1120" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkqilPVJylEOtoJOHYtfvrnFVcscnnVT0yxy9TnkuACDKAbe91cZKXzhZJP0dOAZm7MoF2B8HGcvepX0a8kyJ9W9FVdSlqmX-Tr-asSKn5j0Zaaa1IgdupHJcGwnTQD9B7O8Es74UWhMQ/s320/Budapest_FortunaStreet.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fortuna Street in the Old Town of Buda</td></tr>
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At St. Matthias, turn left and run to the back side of the church for another amazing sight: the Fishermen's Bastion (<i>Halászbástya</i>). This fanciful lookout with turreted ramparts was built in 1900 to celebrate 1,000 years of the Kingdom of Hungary. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbAVDNJWtVUXZ9jL11gVkU_pTSHQE3BuwvkzGD-Fj3-A47KHe8C_-R1JcJMipv59sYWmuReieJbvUqwHx_2e6h9qdMNz-TDA3S1pjB0IKn8vq3dzPqgFJo6bgw9l5pfGyBz9-jHJF96u09/s1600/Budapest_FishermensBastion.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="1073" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbAVDNJWtVUXZ9jL11gVkU_pTSHQE3BuwvkzGD-Fj3-A47KHe8C_-R1JcJMipv59sYWmuReieJbvUqwHx_2e6h9qdMNz-TDA3S1pjB0IKn8vq3dzPqgFJo6bgw9l5pfGyBz9-jHJF96u09/s320/Budapest_FishermensBastion.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fishermen's Bastion</td></tr>
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So now let's head downhill again, and back to the Danube. Take the exit through one of the two archways behind the church and go down the steps to the little street below. Continue with the steps crossing the grassy traffic island, then turn left onto <i>Szabó Ilonka utca</i>, heading downhill.<br />
<br />
Continue for two blocks, past the yellow <i>Catholic Gymnasium</i> (high school), and then take the <i>Franklin utca</i> steps downward to the right. These end at the next cross-street, <i>Iskola utca</i>. Now turn left and run past a few lively pubs and restaurants, to turn right onto <i>Markovits Iván utca</i>. <br />
<br />
Now run the block to Batthyány Square at the river, with the baroque <i>St. Anna Church</i>. This is the 9-km-mark.<br />
<br />
Now we just cross the tram tracks at the zebra-stripes, and turn left to head north along the river again. The beautiful facade of the parliament building is right across the river. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgt9l8YRwZ-asdtgDfaHvM2vxXuQaSz3-EzVk1O_0K3HhGnmlgACs1lj4w8TxiHzC9dV5tmmpJr9yQiXLs2UZBZyzL4Djm2jlZtIipdKo7NEw05dh_PxQifRaHKinuUeY1jaHwrpM5-gp/s1600/Budapest_DanubeWestShore.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="1122" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgt9l8YRwZ-asdtgDfaHvM2vxXuQaSz3-EzVk1O_0K3HhGnmlgACs1lj4w8TxiHzC9dV5tmmpJr9yQiXLs2UZBZyzL4Djm2jlZtIipdKo7NEw05dh_PxQifRaHKinuUeY1jaHwrpM5-gp/s320/Budapest_DanubeWestShore.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the western shore, heading north</td></tr>
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This is a nice sidewalk for pedestrians and bikes, raised up a bit over the river road to the right, <i>Angelo Rotta rkp</i>. The direct riverside isn't so great for running: it's often parked full with cars or you have to climb over guardrails and avoid ship bollards blocking the way.<br />
<br />
Now just run one kilometer north to the Margaret Bridge (<i>Margit Híd</i>), turn right to cross the river, and we are almost home again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiazVSPZBMej0HTKZRDrGkBkiMGtJ-KZJJG14-Sq5PFod4wnTSY4SzOZpNx_fCYFbUSOa_SizpbWRnqcsFhIoLnnzQ-a7X91v2TSZFS7TscmyjR9zgH2VYeFfADKfWtfUeI66doeYYPV1H4/s1600/Budapest_MargaretBridge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="1111" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiazVSPZBMej0HTKZRDrGkBkiMGtJ-KZJJG14-Sq5PFod4wnTSY4SzOZpNx_fCYFbUSOa_SizpbWRnqcsFhIoLnnzQ-a7X91v2TSZFS7TscmyjR9zgH2VYeFfADKfWtfUeI66doeYYPV1H4/s320/Budapest_MargaretBridge.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing Margaret Bridge, rest of run continues to right</td></tr>
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<span id="goog_104389634"></span><span id="goog_104389635"></span><br />
We pass the southern tip of Margaret Island when we cross. That is a really nice, pleasant, short, flat run. Try out the <a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2015/07/budapest-margaret-island-running-route.html" target="_blank">Margaret Island Running Route here!</a><br />
<br />
When you reach the east side of the Danube, turn right and run the few blocks south past the parliament. Run past the building to the spot where we first came to the river, then turn left, cross the zebra-stripes again and run back to Liberty Square, where we started.<br />
<br />
It was a long, hard run, but I'm sure it was like none other in your whole life. Enjoy the rest of your stay in Budapest!Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-39810833878682286362020-04-24T09:49:00.003+02:002020-04-25T08:54:55.313+02:00Lugano, Monte San Salvatore Hiking/Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/3030556879" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br />
<br />
And here's official map: <br />
<a href="https://map.wanderland.ch/?lang=de&bgLayer=pk&resolution=2.5&trackId=3333316&photos=yes&logo=yes&season=summer&layers=Wanderland%2CStation%2CAccomodation&E=2716669&N=1093623">https://map.wanderland.ch/?lang=de&bgLayer=pk&resolution=2.5&trackId=3333316&photos=yes&logo=yes&season=summer&layers=Wanderland%2CStation%2CAccomodation&E=2716669&N=1093623</a><br />
<br />
Length (several possibilities, see below): 14 km (8.7 mi) for variation 3, terrain: constant climb up, sometimes steep, gain 990 meters for route variations 2, 3 and 4!<br />
<br />
Lugano, is a lakeside gem in Swiss Ticino. There is old-world charm in the winding lanes of the old town, with its arcaded shop-fronts and elegant parks. The town is like a hand-polished burl-wood box glistening unobtrusively at the corner of a massive oak desk.<br />
<br />
Lugano offers two challenging mountain hikes/runs right in town. One up Monte Bre, that cone-shaped hill to the east, and one up Monte San Salvatore to the south, shaped like a sugarloaf when seen from town, but it is really a long ridge when seen from the east or west.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSexYFvlFzHdU2Et2Uw121jNvtcDA_43au2Cdyt7MOfkX1kU3522L6d30TUY54fPPRXqZrtv84JqLXN2C-kQkO2UdsU1tMiQqImsNY_qtC5Opbau-e_3BKu_A00GoGTnQd7ryrOyqi1291/s1600/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_ViewFromTown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1234" data-original-width="962" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSexYFvlFzHdU2Et2Uw121jNvtcDA_43au2Cdyt7MOfkX1kU3522L6d30TUY54fPPRXqZrtv84JqLXN2C-kQkO2UdsU1tMiQqImsNY_qtC5Opbau-e_3BKu_A00GoGTnQd7ryrOyqi1291/s320/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_ViewFromTown.jpg" width="249" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monte San Salvatore as seen from Lugano</td></tr>
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That's the one we'll be exploring today. Monte San Salvatore has long been a destination for people from the region: on its peak is a pilgrimage chapel, there for 800 years. Local people believed that Jesus stopped there to rest on his ascension to heaven, and many have hiked up the mountain to visit the site. There is a 600-meter gain in altitude from Paradiso.<br />
<br />
And for us typical tourists, there are a lot more great reasons to join the hike ourselves: amazing views, vineyards, cliffs and woods, and even a few good hilltop restaurants to spend some time.<br />
<br />
There are several possible variations to the run:<br />
1. Run to the peak and back, a hard 6.2 kilometers.<br />
2. Run to the peak, then on to Ciona village, then run back for a total of 9.6 kilometers (or take the 434 bus back, for a 5km run. You can find timetables here: <a href="https://www.rome2rio.com/map/Lugano/Carona-Paese#r/Line-434-bus">https://www.rome2rio.com/map/Lugano/Carona-Paese#r/Line-434-bus</a>)<br />
3. Run to the peak, then on to Ciona and then to Carona village, then run back for a total of 14 kilometers (or take the 434 bus back from Carona, for 7 kilometers).<br />
4. Run to the peak, then to Carona, then down to the lakefront at Melide, for an out-and-back run of about 15.7km. From there you can take the S10 commuter train back to Paradiso or Lugano station (the S10 trains run hourly and cost just CHF2.30). Make online timetable queries here: <a href="https://www.sbb.ch/en/timetable.html">https://www.sbb.ch/en/timetable.html</a>.<br />
<br />
<i>NOTE: There is also an inclined cable-car ("funicular") train that goes right from Paradiso for the 1600 meters up to the peak, for those who want to avoid the climb and just run along the nature-trail on the ridge at the top. The lower station in Paradiso is on Via delle Scuole. Passengers have to change to a different car at the Pazzallo station, part way up the mountain, to take the steeper section to the top for this 130-year-old train. The last train departs at 11 p.m. in the summer. It leaves every 30 minutes and takes 12 minutes for the whole trip, and costs CHF23 one way or CHF30 return. See their website at <a href="https://www.montesansalvatore.ch/en/mount-san-salvatore/funicular/">https://www.montesansalvatore.ch/en/mount-san-salvatore/funicular/</a></i><br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpGZv-EHoNRwuDCx-Yp9UOwFCrblzz5NzkEy1mirUiO6Z6RQONaFsIzb2vUMaFIlm4mmS8USOpcNpXJ5-b1kB4PoUK2wXkEUkD42YcWTSKTLiAAA7j8UQXBksw0Hc8X5ONZQt0awQ24lf/s1600/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_CableCarStation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="958" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpGZv-EHoNRwuDCx-Yp9UOwFCrblzz5NzkEy1mirUiO6Z6RQONaFsIzb2vUMaFIlm4mmS8USOpcNpXJ5-b1kB4PoUK2wXkEUkD42YcWTSKTLiAAA7j8UQXBksw0Hc8X5ONZQt0awQ24lf/s320/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_CableCarStation.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Funiculare station in Paradiso, with peak</td></tr>
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This route description will assume that you want to take the third variation: run/hike to the peak, then on to Carona, then run back.<br />
<br />
I consider this route more of a hike than a run, but some people do try to run it for the whole distance. I walked the steep parts, which is hard enough in itself.<br />
<br />
So, if you want to try this memorable mountain, let's get to the start. We'll start this at the turn-around spot of the Paradiso Run, where the lakeside promenade ends at the fountain. You can do the short run there from town, or maybe you're staying in one of the nearby Paradiso hotels.<br />
<br />
Just across the lakeside road from the fountain is Via Bosia, which you follow past some businesses and the school, then under the railroad overpass. This is the local commuter line, the S10, which you can take back from Melide if you want to do the one-way run described in variation 4.<br />
<br />
After going under the underpass, where the road does a hairpin turn, take the left-hand side-street going south, uphill, Via Guidino. There are nice villas in this neighborhood, but we'll soon turn right onto that marked hiking trail (look for the yellow signs with the destination name of "<i>S. Salvatore</i>").<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzBvXcP8ZtRsjg3Dj42pVYbMH9ONQAUdFHShogpHuwNhKaIyVsj_XKs7KIZhU5JUzpUr5eKwrpJzk4_0ox5O_9wZva2rvPSf1qR8xvXuEZEihYGxePVcxLKMk-LV2XoJ-jZP_x1Jh4eqb/s1600/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_TrailBridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="958" data-original-width="1600" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzBvXcP8ZtRsjg3Dj42pVYbMH9ONQAUdFHShogpHuwNhKaIyVsj_XKs7KIZhU5JUzpUr5eKwrpJzk4_0ox5O_9wZva2rvPSf1qR8xvXuEZEihYGxePVcxLKMk-LV2XoJ-jZP_x1Jh4eqb/s320/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_TrailBridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail bridge</td></tr>
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The trail first follows a stream and then some level fields to arrive at the cable-car tracks. Now the trail turns uphill to follow directly next to the tracks. You see that radio tower way up at the top? That's where we're going!<br />
<br />
We'll pass a nearby abandoned restaurant and head past vineyards in the open country, already with a great view north to Lugano and the Alps.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU5YrmyYv_osDdqwyl08WW-oml0dZhyphenhyphencYB-SddxH3vNjciOJj5rEXub0z61kV0y2Ex7fBfHmO18Yif-aVa2fC_EL2JFMtpxYs2dHM__0QW0x6rA6tZ8IDIP18iRuNjRwPv2IWuET0XDys1/s1600/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_Trailsign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="958" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU5YrmyYv_osDdqwyl08WW-oml0dZhyphenhyphencYB-SddxH3vNjciOJj5rEXub0z61kV0y2Ex7fBfHmO18Yif-aVa2fC_EL2JFMtpxYs2dHM__0QW0x6rA6tZ8IDIP18iRuNjRwPv2IWuET0XDys1/s320/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_Trailsign.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail sign in the vineyards</td></tr>
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At the Pazzallo transfer station, after 900 meters, the trail splits. The trail to the right follows fairly level terrain along the west side of the mountain. We'll follow the left-hand (easterly) trail, heading to the peak. Pazzallo is 500 meters high, so we've gained about a third of our total altitude towards the peak.<br />
<br />
The trail soon dips into woods, and stays that way for the rest of the trip. But as we continue uphill, there are various nice lookouts over the vertical east side of the mountain, with cliffs plunging down to the lake. The trail zig-zags its way up to the peak past the <i>Belvedere </i>lookout, along the eastern cliffs. There are white-red-white trail markings painted on occasional rocks.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBXPGbW9CVHxE_iYOo2KUHg43enwW4zRQ1vR7FjITfHEJGl6S-i6-nz2CeY1Zzm8e2z66JBLmd44MTnUGDg1oeJiDsis_m_xwEZ0cJyFEyB8EJ_vjk3yTW0rnQ8GEV-4fe0X1ya42rqvKs/s1600/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_ViewOfLake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="866" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBXPGbW9CVHxE_iYOo2KUHg43enwW4zRQ1vR7FjITfHEJGl6S-i6-nz2CeY1Zzm8e2z66JBLmd44MTnUGDg1oeJiDsis_m_xwEZ0cJyFEyB8EJ_vjk3yTW0rnQ8GEV-4fe0X1ya42rqvKs/s320/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_ViewOfLake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Lugano and Alps behind</td></tr>
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After the 3-kilometer mark, we'll come to the peak area, with the cable-car station, the radio tower, the <i>Vetta </i>restaurant (with a panorama terrace) and the chapel. The summit with the chapel, at over 900 meters, is 60 meters higher than the station. The chapel is now a museum, and you can go up to the rooftop terrace for another great view, this time all the way to Monte Rosa, with Switzerland's highest peaks.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoI3bed19C3oPWt2Dg6dUomuDiFGaA4E_JFEwjL570-qv7qlOFtmP3Ld2TPxLhbH2AHRMUfT0TrSQlPL5uZBqDRY3kaXhZZb6z-S58UiZNI_BG4tlEZuUYXNWnmjejyIf_otnSG7hgvnsz/s1600/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_PilgrimageChapel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="1073" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoI3bed19C3oPWt2Dg6dUomuDiFGaA4E_JFEwjL570-qv7qlOFtmP3Ld2TPxLhbH2AHRMUfT0TrSQlPL5uZBqDRY3kaXhZZb6z-S58UiZNI_BG4tlEZuUYXNWnmjejyIf_otnSG7hgvnsz/s320/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_PilgrimageChapel.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chapel/museum</td></tr>
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So, if you're doing the simple variation 1 out-and-back, you've made it to the top, and here's the place to turn around and head home.<br />
<br />
If you're continuing on variations 2, 3 or 4, now take the Via San Salvatore trail downhill towards Ciona and Carona (the signs also point to Morcote, which is beyond those two nearby villages. The trail leaves right behind the <i>Vetta </i>Restaurant.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdK7mGcvf-qHuTSVmFW94AIb5P4a5nOef2fB6gnlFfUvvB74RSmvuaygSGf2FEJ_Xlutc32Klz4ptEcIR4jG7CV0cF3aUGc60_aCPXCPNztLn9cs3dJw0fpR-2Z6E9B5hcPmFMOGsjTK80/s1600/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_TrailToCarona.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="861" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdK7mGcvf-qHuTSVmFW94AIb5P4a5nOef2fB6gnlFfUvvB74RSmvuaygSGf2FEJ_Xlutc32Klz4ptEcIR4jG7CV0cF3aUGc60_aCPXCPNztLn9cs3dJw0fpR-2Z6E9B5hcPmFMOGsjTK80/s320/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_TrailToCarona.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wooded trail</td></tr>
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We'll lose about 300 meters in height at first, heading down along the ridge, through woods. Then the trail is paved and flattens out before coming to scenic Ciona village at altitude 610 meters, at the 4.8-km mark. <br />
<br />
This is a pretty little place, with its own little chapel and a restaurant with a shady terrace, the <i>Osteria Grotto Ciona</i>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BKGkC0Z_1edbtJBVPXi_ea5MmC3ZY9j95uhwnLrJhdTtGaGhoVZ9Grei3g6PpnejtJnm7_AXK7BNkl0RkXQ3TFWkEPicYAGvJ5g-Kdz04gmPHORxzhFnmlFDR7DcT5BvU2jqzf0nKrHY/s1600/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_Ciona.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="1002" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BKGkC0Z_1edbtJBVPXi_ea5MmC3ZY9j95uhwnLrJhdTtGaGhoVZ9Grei3g6PpnejtJnm7_AXK7BNkl0RkXQ3TFWkEPicYAGvJ5g-Kdz04gmPHORxzhFnmlFDR7DcT5BvU2jqzf0nKrHY/s320/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_Ciona.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Ciona: keep right!</td></tr>
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Just past the restaurant is the road to the next nearby village, Carona. There is a parking lot there, and the bus stop (you can take the 434 bus back to Paradiso from here). For those people following route variation 2, this is the turnaround spot.<br />
<br />
For those continuing on to Carona, just keep going straight on the soft dirt trail that continues on the other side of the road (Via Principale) and follow this level, shady trail until you come into the south side of Carona, merging into Via Nodiva. <br />
<br />
Continue through the edge of this scenic village until you get back to Via Principale, where you continue heading south. There is another bus stop in town for the 434 bus at the post office, if you want to take it home. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERA0t_IL19Xtu0GIZHxYwyK1ItRcW0nSjWorhQ2ALZdtTQnnsb5Ww0uGbpmIF3evEu6_S6V3ysiayt-3PRJa29c69NW3j_5HzH-BjrAO7ljz4xlkgVhKfqxiXUd6ATeFydcAGiZRttbvu/s1600/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_ParcoSanGrato.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="491" data-original-width="867" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERA0t_IL19Xtu0GIZHxYwyK1ItRcW0nSjWorhQ2ALZdtTQnnsb5Ww0uGbpmIF3evEu6_S6V3ysiayt-3PRJa29c69NW3j_5HzH-BjrAO7ljz4xlkgVhKfqxiXUd6ATeFydcAGiZRttbvu/s320/Lugano_MonteSanSalvatore_ParcoSanGrato.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of peak from Parco San Grato</td></tr>
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At the south end of town is a popular botanical gardens, the <i>Parco San Grato</i>. Entry is free, and it is an absolutely beautiful spot to run a little loop, with some amazing views of Lago Lugano and the peak.<br />
<br />
So, now variation 3 ends and you run back home the way you came, totaling 15 kilometers. Or take the bus back, from the post office back in Carona village (just head straight up Via Principale to the center of town).<br />
<br />
For those wanting to follow variation 4, there is a foot-trail (just south of the Santi Giorgio e Andrea church) that zig-zags down the east slope towards the lakeside town of Melide. <br />
<br />
The Melide train station is at the main intersection, at the roundabout. It's right at the lakeside, with the Swiss A2 autobahn right behind it, which tunneled through the mountain. For about CHF2.30, you can take one of the hourly S10 trains back, one stop to Paradiso, or two stops to Lugano Central. <br />
<br />
I think you have just run a route you will not soon forget! Now go enjoy a <i>Aperol Spritz</i> and a nice dinner in Lugano!Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-68293157827928866702020-03-24T10:03:00.000+01:002020-03-24T10:03:12.858+01:00Thanks to Closet Traveler blog for the kind words!Dawn Miller, another writer who does the Closet Traveler site at www.closettraveler.com, just did a nice write-up of our site. Thanks Dawn! For anybody interested in some fun travel ideas, check out her site!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LXD68Sl7oj5FQh5MzMXLBs6hBScS6aFZTOS1H6GpJ9ZjvvBINLZHctJa7t5w9u6AHS1KuswfVVoVThv1-WwD3U_LYF-i-uItfbwNi0cNJWS8BgdkSOzEVhWHevjRD3nMX4IpnCTyniU/s1600/ClosetTravelerWriteUp.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LXD68Sl7oj5FQh5MzMXLBs6hBScS6aFZTOS1H6GpJ9ZjvvBINLZHctJa7t5w9u6AHS1KuswfVVoVThv1-WwD3U_LYF-i-uItfbwNi0cNJWS8BgdkSOzEVhWHevjRD3nMX4IpnCTyniU/s1600/ClosetTravelerWriteUp.JPG" width="313" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Closet Traveler article about Running Routes</td></tr>
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<br />Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-53456368943687935992020-03-08T14:13:00.002+01:002020-03-08T14:13:50.501+01:00Aqua Liques Trail, Costa Calma, Fuerteventura Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2917601896" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 10.2 km (6.3 mi), terrain: fairly flat, gain 121 meters<br /><br /><i>NOTE: This is sandy, rocky desert country: make sure you bring water on hot days, avoid the afternoon heat, and watch your step!</i><br /><br />When vacationing in the tourist hotel-town of Costa Calma, there are a few simple getaways waiting right at your doorstep. One of these is this 10K coast-to-coast run across the narrow El Jable sand desert that connects the southern Jandia peninsula to the rest of Fuerteventura. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The desert sands of El Jable</td></tr>
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The island is only 5 kilometers wide at Costa Calma, with a whole different desert experience waiting for you just west of town. And on the other side waits the wild west coast, with its cliffs, peaks and booming surf.<br /><br /><i>NOTE: Other great Costa Calma runs include the two obvious beach runs: north of town along Playa Matas Blancas, or south of town along Playa de Sotavento.</i><br /><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the park: nice jungle!</td></tr>
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So if you're ready to try something different, and run across the desert, get yourself to the start of this route. Follow the long, jungly palm-park that lines Avenida Jahn Reisen through the whole town, and get to the <i>El Palmeral Shopping Center</i>. Now head behind the shopping center, northwest along Calle Playa de la Jaquerta, going through a local neighborhood towards the new bypass freeway.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">El Palmeral Shopping Center: head out back to get onto the route!</td></tr>
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At the end of the road, at the dusty lot next to the freeway, turn right to run along the dirt path. We need to head north for a block to find the tunnel that takes us under the freeway so we can get back to the same spot again on the other side.<br /><br />The dirt trail takes you to the tunnel, where you run through it and then turn left to run the dusty road parallel to the freeway again until you are opposite Calle Playa de la Jaquerta, at almost the 2-kilometer mark. We're now across from where we were just a couple of minutes earlier. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFv_dtzMn9MHYVSnB-2M_fbAy0FxxESy8K3YeZJ5Wgckul-aNQtBPE_Vu-D1OqjX07Na8vPjoaokm4EnFY4tFD9IrIO2CciB6cJYMWCBur0yJi0u41YUoEHOvhfVb66Vbud8_mxoLhZvf/s1600/CostaCalma_MapSign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFv_dtzMn9MHYVSnB-2M_fbAy0FxxESy8K3YeZJ5Wgckul-aNQtBPE_Vu-D1OqjX07Na8vPjoaokm4EnFY4tFD9IrIO2CciB6cJYMWCBur0yJi0u41YUoEHOvhfVb66Vbud8_mxoLhZvf/s320/CostaCalma_MapSign.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The start of the cross-island trail</td></tr>
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This is where the real trail across the desert begins. There's a big trail map on the wooden signboard for the Jandia nature preserve. You can take a look: basically, we just follow the jeep trail straight across the isthmus. We'll run parallel to that line of wind generators on the ridge to the left. <br /><br />So now, just head northwest along the rocky, sandy trail. The beige, sandy soil is unique on Fuerteventura, joining the other dark-sand, volcanic areas to either side of El Jable. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEima2qHczpimuqMA2KnCkxnaHP17v9I1LOMc8YMErootvSAVCR8rJDQ-LpHkg67BUY7ejLUPTMLZnR9GFzUE0Y4tq5nyd-4Y8UVSDpGJpc3CPzwEdPl5t0664gtLvTuRHHRqir1fpeJBy1l/s1600/CostaCalma_BlueTrailMarker.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEima2qHczpimuqMA2KnCkxnaHP17v9I1LOMc8YMErootvSAVCR8rJDQ-LpHkg67BUY7ejLUPTMLZnR9GFzUE0Y4tq5nyd-4Y8UVSDpGJpc3CPzwEdPl5t0664gtLvTuRHHRqir1fpeJBy1l/s320/CostaCalma_BlueTrailMarker.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail marker</td></tr>
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Keep your eyes open for the light-blue-colored wooden posts marking the way. There will be occasional cross-trails, but we'll just ignore them until we reach the other coast.<br /><br />If you look closely across the dune-like landscape, you might spy small herds of goats roaming the area. The desert vegetation is also worth taking a close look at: it's amazing how the plants have adapted to such a dry place. But don't forget: we're in a nature preserve, and we need to stay on the trails.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJekmOYdj3x_4a1zxJW9vam-EQKrRI9fNCtbgaCj00D8MaWyd6WVjJBV6n9kq2l5CagYLf1jobyP3uN-RBPk9i-DIYg9wLY64RxbxDx1L3uiDHP1sSE6gYbEf4GhSmoZzqVGvo6Xw2pvI/s1600/CostaCalma_Goats.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="838" data-original-width="618" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJekmOYdj3x_4a1zxJW9vam-EQKrRI9fNCtbgaCj00D8MaWyd6WVjJBV6n9kq2l5CagYLf1jobyP3uN-RBPk9i-DIYg9wLY64RxbxDx1L3uiDHP1sSE6gYbEf4GhSmoZzqVGvo6Xw2pvI/s320/CostaCalma_Goats.JPG" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goats roam the landscape</td></tr>
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When we get to the highest spot, at about the 4-kilometer mark, we cross the island's north-south hiking trail, GR131, where there's a waymark. It's trail markers are painted red-white. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7TiCG4tskvnZJfePPMudYQk0FcGAzQi4lOwHEJGRXUx2-1nkNcC_VgpwaeeXYtyVMc2FTXf2ITbAFVEl3v2AS-_iQqEbfguV1ZYvJLPfy_d67V0BY6y4jN6aAWRmWNPldQyzGONFVD2S/s1600/CostaCalma_CrossingGR131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7TiCG4tskvnZJfePPMudYQk0FcGAzQi4lOwHEJGRXUx2-1nkNcC_VgpwaeeXYtyVMc2FTXf2ITbAFVEl3v2AS-_iQqEbfguV1ZYvJLPfy_d67V0BY6y4jN6aAWRmWNPldQyzGONFVD2S/s320/CostaCalma_CrossingGR131.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing the north-south trail, GR 131</td></tr>
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We keep running straight, there's just one more kilometer until we reach the west coast.<br /><br />We'll soon come to a spot where several cross-trails split off, and the trail starts going downhill. We're almost there. Just keep running down the slope until the panorama of the ocean opens up and you find yourself standing above the cliffs of Aqua Liques, with amazing views in both directions. The powerful breakers stream-in from the northwest in a never-ending onslaught. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKeSGVTJaeHPtYg9S8KwJr4nv3Kl7qIFVhIiuxUHo7NBXKBFIjjfSbpu7oyqX3J24ammI24RbVJAatP9npZ2UFEBk8zlRMIDUzXxxXVVVxN3vnCyXiqV_wOOV_OgW-RZvL4DP_xL8UEeV/s1600/CostaCalma_AguaLiques.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKeSGVTJaeHPtYg9S8KwJr4nv3Kl7qIFVhIiuxUHo7NBXKBFIjjfSbpu7oyqX3J24ammI24RbVJAatP9npZ2UFEBk8zlRMIDUzXxxXVVVxN3vnCyXiqV_wOOV_OgW-RZvL4DP_xL8UEeV/s320/CostaCalma_AguaLiques.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View north from Aqua Liques</td></tr>
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You can go down to the water, but I'd stay out of it: there are a lot of rocks and riptides. In the week that I was there, two tourists drowned at this spot. <i> </i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And looking south</td></tr>
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<i>NOTE: If you want to extend the run, you could run north along the shoreline down on the ledge below the cliffs, near the water. It heads towards Los Boquetes. That's the next little promontory, which you can see, standing there at Aqua Liques.</i><br /><br />So, once you've taken-in this impressive scene, it's time to turn around and follow the same trail back to town. Luckily, there are enough lounge-chairs and pool bars back in Costa Calma to quickly recover!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPZ1s4T_r-h-hr5XWRVQbkYPzCDy4G07GbS5vxTNxEPnXg2RKcLl2CbjTjGauIGVE5mUpa9RPlsS4JykWZUbELfWkDfLh3E03Mhm5f6uAqpYXlFuPEQrW3e_m8HZ5r8OSBib8BG67lxRPs/s1600/CostaCalma_Recovering.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPZ1s4T_r-h-hr5XWRVQbkYPzCDy4G07GbS5vxTNxEPnXg2RKcLl2CbjTjGauIGVE5mUpa9RPlsS4JykWZUbELfWkDfLh3E03Mhm5f6uAqpYXlFuPEQrW3e_m8HZ5r8OSBib8BG67lxRPs/s320/CostaCalma_Recovering.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little recovery time at the hotel!</td></tr>
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<br />Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-65191904519553705272020-02-10T14:50:00.001+01:002020-02-10T14:50:29.547+01:00Capitol Gorge Trail, Capitol Reef NP Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2891239207" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 7.6 km (4.7 mi), terrain: fairly flat, gain 223 meters<br /><br /><i>NOTE: This is desert country: bring water and don't hike/run in the afternoon in summer. Also, this canyon is a wash, meaning it turns into a rushing torrent within minutes when a shower hits the area: keep away when showers threaten! In fact, the whole Scenic Drive can have dangerous flash-flood spots, so check the weather report first. When I was there, it started raining at the turnaround-point, and I had to race to get back to the car and out of there as the roads started to flood!</i><br /><br />This trail combines a lot of great stuff: petroglyphs, the "Pioneer Register", water tanks (potholes that fill with water in the spring) and lots of colorful rock in the impressive canyon walls.<br /><br />To get there, take the Scenic Drive south from the Fruita Visitor Center. The paved road ends at the junction for Capitol Gorge Road, where you keep left. This is a gravel road, which is normally good enough for a normal 2-wheel-drive car. This drive itself is fun, winding into the gorge over little side-washes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsi5yw5J3OWHOvCGtCwnh8iw8jb1X_ApfXvmuhWez_Csm2cQHoVyxywhsOxqDzEj0c-FjRwPLyHN0kFfDN8U3hymRAa6LtqgcG1Oq3Ux7m4N2lJaaW1PwxYEXQrhx9XZMniXrbqaDPQcv/s1600/CapitolGorge_Hikers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1556" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsi5yw5J3OWHOvCGtCwnh8iw8jb1X_ApfXvmuhWez_Csm2cQHoVyxywhsOxqDzEj0c-FjRwPLyHN0kFfDN8U3hymRAa6LtqgcG1Oq3Ux7m4N2lJaaW1PwxYEXQrhx9XZMniXrbqaDPQcv/s320/CapitolGorge_Hikers.JPG" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hikers in the Capitol Gorge</td></tr>
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The road ends at the trailhead parking lot, with its picnic shelter. There is a trail upwards here to the Golden Throne, a peak just north of the trailhead with great views. We'll stay down in the sandy wash inside the gorge, though, with just an easy run/hike out and back, with a couple of little side-hikes for added interest.<br /><br />This route follows the road to the eastern edge of Capitol Reef National Park. The road actually continues eastwards to Notom Road, if you want to add distance. Or, alternatively, you can turn this into a shorter run by turning around at any time, something you might consider during hotter weather. I was here during the very cold spring of 2019, and we actually got snowfall on the next day!<br /><br />OK, so here you are at the trailhead, in the middle of God's Country. Take a minute to soak-in the amazing canyon scenery. This sandy, rocky road used to be the main way into the area from the east, before Route 24 was built. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wash at the start of the gorge</td></tr>
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Some of the main sights of the run come up pretty quickly, so let's get to it.<br /><br />The first part of the trail, the Narrows, is hemmed-in by the narrow, high gorge with its fascinating rock formations, little caves and colors. Some places are only 3 meters wide. You're running slightly downhill until the turnaround spot. We're following the wash, a usually dry creek bed. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfr9HrysAqW2mo_Sj26ybVDqKBcWoYljdH41wpd-cTOza3R9I_lHGaaOJMr_h5ActEtl-dc5Hr-z-ohnZTLBXRhULsk4rdpLilGagd2BlvgKMH8YT43jm_7ReJjlFBROa146vbS3yNJpXA/s1600/CapitolGorge_Narrows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfr9HrysAqW2mo_Sj26ybVDqKBcWoYljdH41wpd-cTOza3R9I_lHGaaOJMr_h5ActEtl-dc5Hr-z-ohnZTLBXRhULsk4rdpLilGagd2BlvgKMH8YT43jm_7ReJjlFBROa146vbS3yNJpXA/s320/CapitolGorge_Narrows.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the Narrows</td></tr>
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After about a half a kilometer, there are some petroglyphs (Native American rock carvings) off to the left in a side canyon. There are animals, antlered-beings, sunbursts and other interesting carvings in the red rock. If you haven't seen many of these before, here's your chance.<br /><br />In another half-kilometer, you'll see the Pioneer Register, graffiti on the rock walls where pioneers coming through from the east carved their names, some as recent as the 1920s. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtF8opFnKFL0sGqWcpPZ5WghwIy6VhA8_nH8Y5UCN9mgUqH8-eXCDNo2a2Bzn-5HP87S8tCsXFxYWVuFQlkzpfTo70P3KCxTCfmyFqBvlSAe25tZAUrqFnryuvWfi5l3VICeDgwh20Qvd5/s1600/CapitolGorge_PioneerRegister.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1369" data-original-width="1600" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtF8opFnKFL0sGqWcpPZ5WghwIy6VhA8_nH8Y5UCN9mgUqH8-eXCDNo2a2Bzn-5HP87S8tCsXFxYWVuFQlkzpfTo70P3KCxTCfmyFqBvlSAe25tZAUrqFnryuvWfi5l3VICeDgwh20Qvd5/s320/CapitolGorge_PioneerRegister.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pioneer names scratched into the rock walls</td></tr>
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Then, at about the 1.4-kilometer mark, you come to a cool place to interrupt your run to climb up to see the "tanks", depressions in the slickrock above that fill with water every springtime. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL93knprlPf6ORkPzgMJaBm0oGE_3BLw3sOCt4BXoMegaZdpbtbMJ-EC4NKttKk0XqgtW0ffOwh840tFcdh6MzsIeEtKxGRZbtWwimT-WMBzVzAUosPxcYqHmAXeqhyv__Km7N7Wqccjsx/s1600/CapitolGorge_ToTanks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1012" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL93knprlPf6ORkPzgMJaBm0oGE_3BLw3sOCt4BXoMegaZdpbtbMJ-EC4NKttKk0XqgtW0ffOwh840tFcdh6MzsIeEtKxGRZbtWwimT-WMBzVzAUosPxcYqHmAXeqhyv__Km7N7Wqccjsx/s320/CapitolGorge_ToTanks.JPG" width="202" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climb these rocks to get to the tanks!</td></tr>
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There are a series of tanks, and the little side-canyon is beautiful.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkjUDl507ub9Mpb9l64lfmjED_lNTRxkHSkEHEF4hSCt9QYLpnRtOFGtRZYQazDd8tJmdOvixDRof0Ht7r4RoyklgjIRdNgnxANz0UzYCsKJroe0LvxeJNMe9p8gRZFR_p8dx_nUv6PDLk/s1600/CapitolGorge_Tanks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkjUDl507ub9Mpb9l64lfmjED_lNTRxkHSkEHEF4hSCt9QYLpnRtOFGtRZYQazDd8tJmdOvixDRof0Ht7r4RoyklgjIRdNgnxANz0UzYCsKJroe0LvxeJNMe9p8gRZFR_p8dx_nUv6PDLk/s320/CapitolGorge_Tanks.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the tanks above the trail</td></tr>
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The wash widens and softens as you continue your vaguely downhill progress, with the slickrock looking more like gentle hills.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Xe4G7mka6AyzH4aGtM5atZ05IOlRPwDdU7OQiYEQ3bty5aVgwCQ1S9XKahllTwSx1_3DsbmkjMnKQjPRwLw0xsok-FuGl9aDjOto9Vt_AiJXa4h-l7PUMrePdn2O4IvMtFcVrRtrylR9/s1600/CapitolGorge_Slickrock.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Xe4G7mka6AyzH4aGtM5atZ05IOlRPwDdU7OQiYEQ3bty5aVgwCQ1S9XKahllTwSx1_3DsbmkjMnKQjPRwLw0xsok-FuGl9aDjOto9Vt_AiJXa4h-l7PUMrePdn2O4IvMtFcVrRtrylR9/s320/CapitolGorge_Slickrock.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The canyon scenery is constantly changing</td></tr>
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When you come to the park boundary sign, it's time to turn around and see it all from the other direction, which -- luckily -- is another great view of natural wonders in the Great American West.Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-20081326147903761302019-11-21T10:39:00.003+01:002019-11-21T10:39:56.805+01:00Skull Rock Trail, Joshua Tree Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2775236260" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 2.7 km (1.7 mi), terrain: several small rises, gain 29 meters<br />
<br />Joshua Tree National Park in the Southern California desert is one of my favorite discoveries. When I first heard about it, I imagined viewing the unique joshua trees, tree-like relatives of agave (<i>yucca</i>) plants. What I didn't imagine was the amazing landscape where these trees grow.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joshua Tree runner on the Skull Rock Trail</td></tr>
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The national park includes several areas of jumbled sandstone boulders and slickrock, perfect places for scrambling around on the rocks. There are fun and easy climbs, great views and an impressive variety of plants and animals like you can only find in the desert. And this little trail goes through one of the nicest of these areas, Jumbo Rocks.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtuoZvvxy3hz3fD85NNJh6NlyyfpoYXDOG9TXf7HHF3TQH3WAbPf0Lm-6Y0I0HYUNQq5cWEJpHKZ0N2fwUtyBEHV-P4yF3Hpo_2u-MIjv1SGbzNyLa5oO5Kf_C1nuv-9ByclpptDxDfw81/s1600/JoshuaTree_BloomingTree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtuoZvvxy3hz3fD85NNJh6NlyyfpoYXDOG9TXf7HHF3TQH3WAbPf0Lm-6Y0I0HYUNQq5cWEJpHKZ0N2fwUtyBEHV-P4yF3Hpo_2u-MIjv1SGbzNyLa5oO5Kf_C1nuv-9ByclpptDxDfw81/s320/JoshuaTree_BloomingTree.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blooming Joshua Tree</td></tr>
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Joshua Tree lies in the transition country where the Mohave and the Sonoran Deserts come together, with plants and animals from both regions. <br /><br /><i>NOTE: To get there, take the main park road, Park Boulevard to a kilometer east of the Jumbo Rocks Campground turnoff. There is a line of parking spaces along each side of the road at the trailhead. Go to the south side of the road to find Skull Rock and the start of the run.</i><br />This short Skull Rock Trail takes you through some of the nicest scenery, without any real climbs. <br /><br />It's a short run, but the rocks give you a lot of chances to climb, scramble and explore. This is some of the most fun rock-scrambling terrain that you'll ever see.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0hmTlE0ZlirMeX_qDWIyBFw2FdVAZ_CeJ1urtfvJOafW320Tu-3q1gyihV0GlC5t0CcMrD30pN-ZA-o1HLtNWaTdQQWdRIFfzPqTmwbRIgo-mrYHqW7gAbeZ8BVwLt3aaGMj6lKtiUw-/s1600/JoshuaTree_SkullRock.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0hmTlE0ZlirMeX_qDWIyBFw2FdVAZ_CeJ1urtfvJOafW320Tu-3q1gyihV0GlC5t0CcMrD30pN-ZA-o1HLtNWaTdQQWdRIFfzPqTmwbRIgo-mrYHqW7gAbeZ8BVwLt3aaGMj6lKtiUw-/s320/JoshuaTree_SkullRock.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skull Rock: looks like Halloween!</td></tr>
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Skull Rock itself is right next to the road, at the trailhead. Just walk a few meters towards the big boulders right there at the parking strip. There are usually other people there, taking pictures, but if you just go a few meters further into the rocks, you'll be by yourself, surrounded by walls of rocks. It's very worthwhile to take some time here before starting the run.<br /><br />OK, so now that you've taken a look around, we're ready to get going. So turn southwest, with the road on your right, and follow the trail. There are occasional way-markers with direction-arrows.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgcb09zhnLV6f-M5acFltmh3vYYc3dQLDuWDZ6ZjPwmJSzSBRPfxXnLwpxHRw6CnOA1cmImwD2ZrSql9sMUZwtrhiliPmk5l8BWnUdUCzN_cDYQvGF3KzEvSQrQEE_AB-7aE5nA8tVtDf-/s1600/JoshuaTree_Yucca.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgcb09zhnLV6f-M5acFltmh3vYYc3dQLDuWDZ6ZjPwmJSzSBRPfxXnLwpxHRw6CnOA1cmImwD2ZrSql9sMUZwtrhiliPmk5l8BWnUdUCzN_cDYQvGF3KzEvSQrQEE_AB-7aE5nA8tVtDf-/s320/JoshuaTree_Yucca.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Desert beauty</td></tr>
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At first, the trail stays close to the road, but then starts curving away to the left as it skirts the big rock formations to the south.<br /><br />When you see the campground down below you on the right side, take the trail down there towards the wooden message board and the outhouse.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6w8GOw1LrYwwWIlZylwn7By3wPVg2Bk2rDYAi-U1SJnhpGasf7ubEjemPwFIPED0nBP5t8q63u_Ioj4Dj0FjvB2x_wYKl7OvON9IMP5sO0zz0hvrdoBS6lzcwCf2hyphenhyphenZQ89cOMN0IYs3H/s1600/JoshuaTree_JumboRocksCampground.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6w8GOw1LrYwwWIlZylwn7By3wPVg2Bk2rDYAi-U1SJnhpGasf7ubEjemPwFIPED0nBP5t8q63u_Ioj4Dj0FjvB2x_wYKl7OvON9IMP5sO0zz0hvrdoBS6lzcwCf2hyphenhyphenZQ89cOMN0IYs3H/s320/JoshuaTree_JumboRocksCampground.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The campground</td></tr>
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You now turn right and run westwards along the paved campground road for the 0.5 miles through the beautiful campground. This is the life! Almost every site has its own private cliffs and rocks, and often its own joshua tree. I actually stayed at this campground, and the opportunity for further hiking/running/exploring is amazing.<br /><br />When the campground road reaches the main road, cross it and turn right to follow the other half of the trail back to the trailhead.<br /><br />The second half of the trail is quiet and natural, with very few people. It's my favorite part of the run. <br /><br />On this half, it too follows the road at the beginning, but then turns off to the north and then follows ridges and canyons full of sand back to the start.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp1ojZJhr_5FpO3F5oukuzeaFbBMhUdGyJ1Aed_MguuZdROyqyr8LD0utaJDbnPu38_wkQ04jaPr0jvMxHt0CzokxSRA-Qr0XUQcrqFqN8jBrPMbv_Etm7H75-bfGeLQPFsIQuE7C1z7GF/s1600/JoshuaTree_RidgeTrail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp1ojZJhr_5FpO3F5oukuzeaFbBMhUdGyJ1Aed_MguuZdROyqyr8LD0utaJDbnPu38_wkQ04jaPr0jvMxHt0CzokxSRA-Qr0XUQcrqFqN8jBrPMbv_Etm7H75-bfGeLQPFsIQuE7C1z7GF/s320/JoshuaTree_RidgeTrail.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along the ridge</td></tr>
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You'll first head up and over two little ridges, then descend into the little canyon, lined by boulders and cliffs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVaROM1jlp-BqWMimFhpU18uKB4FCasVxEn9IaUk4T5oyhmnMFsUcSClZZ6g40KglW9zlQCSW1GomfaLq5YQyvmjTvbjGmtuGXvuoa6Mk2BksuPK0qAsxytfqPyjKvC2k6QqXYwnZxQOk/s1600/JoshuaTree_RidgeRocks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVaROM1jlp-BqWMimFhpU18uKB4FCasVxEn9IaUk4T5oyhmnMFsUcSClZZ6g40KglW9zlQCSW1GomfaLq5YQyvmjTvbjGmtuGXvuoa6Mk2BksuPK0qAsxytfqPyjKvC2k6QqXYwnZxQOk/s320/JoshuaTree_RidgeRocks.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great rock formations along the trail</td></tr>
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There are signs at the end to take you back to the Skull Rock trailhead to the right side, and to combine the run with nearby Split Rock Loop Trail, which heads off to the left. Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-76070006571820783762019-10-29T09:31:00.001+01:002019-10-29T09:31:29.195+01:00Tucson Saguaro Cactus Desert Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2753607985" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 8.4 km (5.2 mi), terrain: gradual rise, gain 127 meters<br /><br /><i>NOTE: The Sonora is a real desert: avoid the summer heat, and try to run in the early mornings. Bring water and a hat! The loop drive is open daily from 7 a.m. till sunset. It's also perfect country for a mountain bike!</i><br /><br />When in Tucson, make sure you experience some of the amazing Sonoran Desert awaiting you outside town (assuming you're not there in the summer months!). And one of the great places to do that is in one of America's youngest national parks: Saguaro National Park. The park protects some of the densest portions of the saguaro cactus forests surrounding Tucson.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTamj-EjZ9AOaDBp-jYyzF5ZGzdGZNWUTDfVmbHbmpUuJh-2ccIwekmjUcXv5yXbqqNJkyEB9GJq71gfWSjAMsVSDhumE58Cq5ulZJ9w158MaKxxywGpDbqjT_rw0zDHdDArEpnRsK7rD/s1600/Tucson_Saguaro_ImpressiveCactus.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTamj-EjZ9AOaDBp-jYyzF5ZGzdGZNWUTDfVmbHbmpUuJh-2ccIwekmjUcXv5yXbqqNJkyEB9GJq71gfWSjAMsVSDhumE58Cq5ulZJ9w158MaKxxywGpDbqjT_rw0zDHdDArEpnRsK7rD/s320/Tucson_Saguaro_ImpressiveCactus.JPG" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An impressive saguaro cactus</td></tr>
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Saguaro are giants of the cactus world, rising massively like silent titans out of the sand and rock. They are pretty special beings, and are worth getting closer to. The white Saguaro flowers are Arizona's state flower, and the red fruit is a traditional food of the local Native Americans. <br /><br />The park's loop drive also takes you by lots of other desert plants, like red-flowering ocotillos, mesquite trees, and other cacti like barrel-cactus, prickly-pear and cholla. It's a whole different world out in those national park hills!<br /><br />There are actually two separate sections of the park, one east of town, one to the west. And each unit has a low-traffic loop drive that makes a great running trail in this little-visited park. The eastern Rincon unit loop is called the Cactus Forest Drive, and is a paved 8-mile loop (That one has the advantage of being smooth, starts at the visitor center, has more people on foot and bicycles and passes an ecology trail and some scenic rocks). <br /><br />This particular run follows the shorter, unpaved loop in the west unit, the Bahada Loop. It has the advantage of having less traffic, and it's more natural, with few man-made intrusions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIAwk2eJzU3ZCMEvGGtr9o3pbkGcK1O-ZZwSDCT0INtVc2eOb1_J5mhPqzHyCtI3EZiX6Jpqv54IhjV_4eLyndmlw_hX9p4pzPX4IxJEm2-zZkDfv9NL0iSd29PUydrTtGb8jwGIcfsEr/s1600/Tucson_Saguaro_HohokamRoad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIAwk2eJzU3ZCMEvGGtr9o3pbkGcK1O-ZZwSDCT0INtVc2eOb1_J5mhPqzHyCtI3EZiX6Jpqv54IhjV_4eLyndmlw_hX9p4pzPX4IxJEm2-zZkDfv9NL0iSd29PUydrTtGb8jwGIcfsEr/s320/Tucson_Saguaro_HohokamRoad.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bahada Loop along Hohokam Road</td></tr>
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The Bahada Loop is a rather rough dirt road with lots of dips and rises, circling a few small hills. It's just off Sandario Road, south of the town of Picture Rocks. The loop combines Hohokam Road on the south half of the loop, and Golden Gate Road on the north half. <br /><br />The loop follows dusty Hohokam Road eastwards, heading lightly uphill for the first three kilometers. When Hohokam joins Golden Gate Road, you turn westwards and follow it downhill all the way back.<br /><br />How to get there: follow Sandario Road either northwards or southwards until you hit Kinney Road, with the sign pointing to the Red Hills Visitor Center. Just 200 meters southeast of the junction, Hohokam Road heads off to the east. There's a little parking spot right at the speed-limit sign. You can also park at the Sus picnic area just a few hundred meters ahead, on the left side.<br /><br />OK, ready for a desert run to remember? Turn eastwards on Hohokam Road and start moving. <br /><br />You'll quickly pass the Sus picnic area on the left side, with its trail head for the Bahada Wash Trail, which parallels the road to Valley View. At just over a mile along the loop road, you'll pass the Hugh Norris Trail heading off to the right, rising into the Tucson Mountains to the southeast.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBmNBOTemq4-O3qIy43smnHlsWxDsOmYC8rsJC-B-hkMzvKUirb-CDTlgyKW94ghKLs_qLBhO-qGt9R4KNAWHMcBtNI838MamkA7P0V_XMMA53iAbOkOXKYLO3oP60dhZ9DZxuIDcRtbV/s1600/Tucson_Saguaro_CactusForest.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBmNBOTemq4-O3qIy43smnHlsWxDsOmYC8rsJC-B-hkMzvKUirb-CDTlgyKW94ghKLs_qLBhO-qGt9R4KNAWHMcBtNI838MamkA7P0V_XMMA53iAbOkOXKYLO3oP60dhZ9DZxuIDcRtbV/s320/Tucson_Saguaro_CactusForest.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The saguaro forest</td></tr>
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And just past the 2-kilometer mark, you'll come to Valley View, with more trailheads. There are a series of small rises to the left (north) that we will keep circling for the whole run.<br /><br />During the next kilometer, the loop drive is just one-way for cars.<br /><br />Enjoy the scenery. Some of the saguaros have holes in them, where birds nest. Keep your eyes open for lizards of various sizes and shapes.<br /><br />At about the 3.5-kilometer mark, Hohokam runs into Golden Gate Road, where you turn left to head back west along the north side of those hills we have been rounding the whole time. The road is two-way for the rest of the loop.<br /><br />After five kilometers, you'll pass the side-road for the Signal Hill picnic area to the right. <br /><br />At the 7.5-kilometer mark, Golden Gate Road runs into Sandario Road, where you turn left to run 200 meters to where Kinney Road turns to the left. Now follow Kinney for 200 meters more to the start of the run, where Hohokam Road begins on the left side.Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-65201746189660615192019-10-16T12:51:00.005+02:002020-03-24T13:43:12.067+01:00Best Düsseldorf Running RoutesVisitors to Düsseldorf will quickly be impressed by its riverside parks, promenade and repurposed harbor. The old town is one of the liveliest in Germany, with streets full of outdoor restaurant- and bar seating, and visitors from around the world enjoying a night out with friends and colleagues. But there are also hidden corners, away from the Rhine River and the old town, where hilly woods and rural fields await for a total getaway from the urban pulse...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_iT805U7qVrH5B3iPDcQvHVegYt80phaF0KMhXhjlAtQbjmqqDJvdTEch2CPJGu0HR73a8AYTw5JAaO0ysEaLsTycrSve2NQCeGYn141DUO0IJro_QN0g7aAbKy1b2v2cwqz7oroEAw2/s1600/DdorfRheinparkJoggers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1280" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_iT805U7qVrH5B3iPDcQvHVegYt80phaF0KMhXhjlAtQbjmqqDJvdTEch2CPJGu0HR73a8AYTw5JAaO0ysEaLsTycrSve2NQCeGYn141DUO0IJro_QN0g7aAbKy1b2v2cwqz7oroEAw2/s320/DdorfRheinparkJoggers.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Runners along Düsseldorf's riverside </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Top Düsseldorf Running Routes</span></span><b> </b><br />
<a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2011/09/dusseldorf-konigsallee-altstadt-rhine.html" target="_blank"><b>Königsallee/Old Town/Rhine:</b></a> this route takes you through the heart of town, with its elegant shopping district, the pedestrian lanes in the old town, the riverside promenade. The perfect way to see the most famous sights in town!<br />
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<a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2011/08/dusseldorf-both-sides-of-rhine-running.html" target="_blank"><b>Both Sides of the Rhine:</b></a> this route hugs the water along both sides of the Rhine River, giving you a maritime experience you won't forget.<br />
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<a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2011/08/dusseldorf-rhine-harbor-running-route.html" target="_blank"><b>Rhine Harbor:</b></a> this great run takes you past the state parliament and TV tower and through the new Media Harbor and through traditional harbor neighborhoods at the south side of town.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2012/04/dusseldorf-stadtwald-running-route.html" target="_blank">Stadtwald:</a></b> the town woods is green oasis of wooded hills on the east side of town. It's easy to reach with the tram, and takes you through beautiful rolling beech woods and fields.<br />
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<a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2010/10/gerresheim-dusseldorf-germany.html" target="_blank"><b>Gerresheim:</b></a> this is another great getaway on the east side: taking you out into more rural farmland and woods east of the city. Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-27205455659714750612019-10-01T09:35:00.001+02:002019-10-01T09:35:12.909+02:00Moab Mill Creek Parkway Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2710493836" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 3.8 km (2.4 mi), terrain: flat, gain 27 meters<br /><br />Just about any time you show up in Moab, Utah, it will be hot. That's why it's good to find a running trail with lots of shade. And that means the Mill Creek Parkway. It's meandering green oasis gracing the heart of town, with cottonwoods and other water-loving shade trees providing a canopy over much of the trail. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVs5xxNTON-RLG_UgcihaN9_eYMkuNOsI89lNl48znSasUpxgPHen_TEKYHNZeP6aWTYUal4wZ2ubv9Yxyy3MDlIHR6C8eJPFGpPv1Jt3evmJ_Vies6F0cIUkbCYv1kyyujDV8e32Mg_H/s1600/Moab_MillCreekRunners.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVs5xxNTON-RLG_UgcihaN9_eYMkuNOsI89lNl48znSasUpxgPHen_TEKYHNZeP6aWTYUal4wZ2ubv9Yxyy3MDlIHR6C8eJPFGpPv1Jt3evmJ_Vies6F0cIUkbCYv1kyyujDV8e32Mg_H/s320/Moab_MillCreekRunners.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mill Creek runners</td></tr>
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Mill Creek flows from the La Sal Mountains to the east, crosses town, and then joins the Colorado River to the west. And the Parkway trail gets you away from all the Main Street loud tourist stuff. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHzqHO5Qbn1WC0h0FLshu58evIvaSNed6gm3MYpU9z72XOqlX4RPh1JCnfER2NZ1zmr5Va-l3jt_aEAV0V9SH-DxeuOXQahIntoKJ2hSWUwzWR-HFWjYLtnaBtjxHwByROyRXb2U9wHk8/s1600/Moab_MainStreet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1075" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHzqHO5Qbn1WC0h0FLshu58evIvaSNed6gm3MYpU9z72XOqlX4RPh1JCnfER2NZ1zmr5Va-l3jt_aEAV0V9SH-DxeuOXQahIntoKJ2hSWUwzWR-HFWjYLtnaBtjxHwByROyRXb2U9wHk8/s320/Moab_MainStreet.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to Moab: Main Street</td></tr>
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This short run follows part of the creek valley: it heads 1.2 miles east from the town center to Rotary Park, and then follows the same way back. The few busy streets are easily crossed, as the trail goes under them via underpasses. <br /><br />The trail is mainly paved with cement, with a variety of pedestrian bridges connecting the neighboring streets into the trail. You'll fall in love with this whole other side of Moab.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpIWpfTwXKrEN6N6wE4kFJkNta8OvjI4UA7dc18RuG4pc9hGq4BE_zq_KOJbMpKyF_QjWVmw0Y6lG6xMB1B9CO3LRm2WCsGUt_A_VHYcIt6MtI6aIL7G5viS0YnjV879lmJGu9rvTp8Y9/s1600/Moab_MillCreekBridgeView.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpIWpfTwXKrEN6N6wE4kFJkNta8OvjI4UA7dc18RuG4pc9hGq4BE_zq_KOJbMpKyF_QjWVmw0Y6lG6xMB1B9CO3LRm2WCsGUt_A_VHYcIt6MtI6aIL7G5viS0YnjV879lmJGu9rvTp8Y9/s320/Moab_MillCreekBridgeView.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Parkway bridge</td></tr>
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There are also extra connectors at various spots that can take you to other trails, like the Pack Creek Parkway near the starting point.<br /><br />The foot- and bike-trail has been around for 20 years now, linking the eastern residential neighborhoods with the town center. The local museum donated various bits of old farming- and mining-equipment on display along the parkway, adding points of interest. And neighbors have contributed fanciful carved seats at a few spots, too. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjavs3JB1ZziHhQGBAu-e1VFg70LuWStTxmx4x_J_VOx39lrAdNiAxEV4r149wPMd81kmRcGB7DyoSXKGqMTfDLVHLNPxydFOU05fg4Sba-KenkvcgfGV15M-YcSdX80hnGb0b3sdMUrWuo/s1600/Moab_MillCreek.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjavs3JB1ZziHhQGBAu-e1VFg70LuWStTxmx4x_J_VOx39lrAdNiAxEV4r149wPMd81kmRcGB7DyoSXKGqMTfDLVHLNPxydFOU05fg4Sba-KenkvcgfGV15M-YcSdX80hnGb0b3sdMUrWuo/s320/Moab_MillCreek.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mill Creek: I like it!</td></tr>
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Let's start the trail in town at the western end, at the corner of S 100 W and W 100 S (the Utah street-numbering system can confuse about anybody!). To get there, turn west off US 191 on W 100 S at <i>Zax Restaurant</i> and head one block to the right-hand curve. You'll see the creek and the trail right there next to the street.<i> </i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLMDlqhy_-wivepbAHbJ4zx6kepXPstwuZvckKMcOy5dXet6EwjDV1qgpH6tTXO3ZOwB2fPSZnf4x2wt0s9-kI4Trb8pnFzIAIZ8lq1vuQ0SBsC01h_JdbsbxjFPnPUFlX0GDUzgaE-OD/s1600/Moab_MillCreekTrailSign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLMDlqhy_-wivepbAHbJ4zx6kepXPstwuZvckKMcOy5dXet6EwjDV1qgpH6tTXO3ZOwB2fPSZnf4x2wt0s9-kI4Trb8pnFzIAIZ8lq1vuQ0SBsC01h_JdbsbxjFPnPUFlX0GDUzgaE-OD/s320/Moab_MillCreekTrailSign.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail map near the start</td></tr>
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<i>NOTE: Heading west from our starting point, there is another section of the trail that goes another kilometer westwards along the creek to S 500 W, near the Moab Regional Hospital. Maybe try it out to add some extra distance!</i><br /><br />Now just turn eastwards and follow the trail for the one block until it heads down through an underpass beneath Main Street (US 191).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOITzm353CS70HJNt3VI65t5OYtDoVjRr7Eycx7v1qdXBZRhgUQwvdfPiR-244BkQS9EuA98XupqsBEEkIaOz-1ZRGsXdylrih9l7RRyBeNp8WBrnkLXT3Diati-8qjlXjDZP6nbVM2T6/s1600/Moab_MainStreetUnderpass.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOITzm353CS70HJNt3VI65t5OYtDoVjRr7Eycx7v1qdXBZRhgUQwvdfPiR-244BkQS9EuA98XupqsBEEkIaOz-1ZRGsXdylrih9l7RRyBeNp8WBrnkLXT3Diati-8qjlXjDZP6nbVM2T6/s320/Moab_MainStreetUnderpass.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main Street underpass...</td></tr>
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On the other side, the lower creek trail heads uphill, bounded by a brick retaining wall for the adjoining businesses. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNf48Ona2ktb6r8Newm4nNblgctypO4vohacw8-94rYNi2WjPsLf1fRHWEbUxcDZjZNBRtKwdBeSzzZNr8YDj1wru1F0ujPuizwrOqz6astqPOOj-fvxO_O_S3pbLfKtz33PoAkemyCku-/s1600/Moab_MillCreekTrailDowntown.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNf48Ona2ktb6r8Newm4nNblgctypO4vohacw8-94rYNi2WjPsLf1fRHWEbUxcDZjZNBRtKwdBeSzzZNr8YDj1wru1F0ujPuizwrOqz6astqPOOj-fvxO_O_S3pbLfKtz33PoAkemyCku-/s320/Moab_MillCreekTrailDowntown.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...and back out again</td></tr>
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A couple of connecting trails then join from both sides, but just stay on the main trail directly to the right side of the creek. The trail curves southwards and heads towards the next underpass, at E 300 S.<br /><br />After the E 300 S underpass, you head by the "Bark Park" (a dog park) on the right side and then the middle school and high school. Then, just before going under Fourth Street, you run by the Youth Garden, kind of a cool project where the school kids raise vegetables. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUT8q3HFemO2Iu1YY4m0muCSpcoQr5p0jLXA657uITpVBPPoo2lS5zhkiRsXaN_2a_w3OBX1sZfhsw18L0gKpxo-itve8cnzVyDBhsCKvAZtI_9nK97RkXlq4TMYtORk5etAF73jX_RUOy/s1600/Moab_BarkParkUnderpass.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUT8q3HFemO2Iu1YY4m0muCSpcoQr5p0jLXA657uITpVBPPoo2lS5zhkiRsXaN_2a_w3OBX1sZfhsw18L0gKpxo-itve8cnzVyDBhsCKvAZtI_9nK97RkXlq4TMYtORk5etAF73jX_RUOy/s320/Moab_BarkParkUnderpass.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading to the Bark Park, under E 300 S</td></tr>
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On the last stretch of the upper creek, you'll run past a new subdivision before reaching Rotary Park.<br /><br />Rotary Park is the turnaround spot. This typical small-town park offers lots of shade (I'm grateful for any respite from the desert heat!), with a playground, barbeque grills and restrooms. The best things about the park are the cool extras like the hummingbird garden and an area with fun xylophones and gongs to make your own music on. Make sure you stop to try the hand-made percussion instruments. You'll love it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkfRZznLCT4kZoI8faP2rSXz2e7LHsI5p_AonyWyZ78XWIdiynuHzdk0U2dL05RrIZvaaA4029ZlL9SYYP3UnyW9dRY0H7L2aaII94B92GiSuFaD-AvvfCjbpVe7yu1VndEJ-mu9rnt4Sj/s1600/Moab_RotaryParkInstruments.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="514" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkfRZznLCT4kZoI8faP2rSXz2e7LHsI5p_AonyWyZ78XWIdiynuHzdk0U2dL05RrIZvaaA4029ZlL9SYYP3UnyW9dRY0H7L2aaII94B92GiSuFaD-AvvfCjbpVe7yu1VndEJ-mu9rnt4Sj/s320/Moab_RotaryParkInstruments.JPG" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to compose your next symphony...</td></tr>
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After your concert, just turn back and head home along the same trail.<br /><br /><i>ANOTHER NOTE: Farther west, you can head out Powerhouse Lane, which brings you to the Mill Creek North Fork Trailhead. The Mill Creek Trail starts at the beginning of a beautiful red-rock canyon, heading past a little dam, passing Mill Creek Falls, and ending 7.5 miles later. It's too rough to run, but a great hike!</i>Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-7342758083950001922019-09-09T11:02:00.001+02:002019-09-09T11:02:56.652+02:00Monument Valley Wildcat Trail Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2651170588" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br /><br />Length 6.1 km (3.8 mi), terrain: a sandy/rocky hill at the beginning, then a flat trail, gain 120 meters<br /><i><br />NOTE: You have to pay admission into the tribal park. It costs $20 per car with up to 4 people, or $10 per individual for walk-ins, bicyclists, etc.</i><br /><br />Monument Valley is the kind of amazing place that only nature can create: given enough wind, water and time. It's a vast desert valley punctuated by shear vertical rocks, red sandstone buttes jutting 300 meters into the heavens. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXT05UUTu_gVpMw5gYPWfT2khQ0l1XhdG0U0UqR_4cfgtUKb3WMfWUA4RRClMcikw-U9WXoonh7JMEtooCf3O7VlvG9JHm-7Z-r11B2J_1eZ9fgm2LT0oNNbtYU33mJdOBLze0gA8BZ1c0/s1600/MonumentValley_Runners.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="1600" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXT05UUTu_gVpMw5gYPWfT2khQ0l1XhdG0U0UqR_4cfgtUKb3WMfWUA4RRClMcikw-U9WXoonh7JMEtooCf3O7VlvG9JHm-7Z-r11B2J_1eZ9fgm2LT0oNNbtYU33mJdOBLze0gA8BZ1c0/s320/MonumentValley_Runners.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Runners along the trail</td></tr>
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You've probably seen those iconic rock formations as an other-worldly background in movies from <i>Stagecoach </i>to <i>Forrest Gump</i> (the spot where he stopped running across the country). And if you get to this wonderful spot, you have the honor to run among this inspiring scenery along the Wildcat Trail.<br /><br />Monument Valley, located a mile above sea level on the Arizona/Utah border, is a Navaho Nations Park. The tribal park is open to visitors, but the most spiritually important spots are reserved for the tribe. That's okay though, because the rest is amazing enough.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis-ehX503WKcBaovmCPCsxnnuDoNvskCesGloA5rfy0v-NSDPnfFRt0Nqu_4t-rd4pUhp9XHkz7yE_67CyPMoLwhn8nsjWnnCZK7hBV-r9Nrn5N7DPl7PgEOwFcmNcgqomzDAdJxQzE4iR/s1600/MonumentValley_BloomingYucca.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis-ehX503WKcBaovmCPCsxnnuDoNvskCesGloA5rfy0v-NSDPnfFRt0Nqu_4t-rd4pUhp9XHkz7yE_67CyPMoLwhn8nsjWnnCZK7hBV-r9Nrn5N7DPl7PgEOwFcmNcgqomzDAdJxQzE4iR/s320/MonumentValley_BloomingYucca.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blooming yucca near the trailhead</td></tr>
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The Wildcat Trail is the only trail in the park that you can hike/run without a guide, and it takes you into the heart of the valley amid a trio of buttes. It's not allowed to leave the trail and climb the rocks though, as the surrounding area is sacred to the Navajos. <br /><br />This easy trail leaves from the beginning of the valley loop road, at the campground. Just where the loop road heads downhill from the visitor center/campground area, the Wildcat Trail branches off to the left at the trailhead sign.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjraD41-5kAfY8GuH2ahy10JRTSiitQEd75fRYwZsEkD1zYYpc7rrwlCYG1jVNPbbXCGUqytRz4_qSjEdqkzrwyjGKOHZ3GGfEXbZAWhGePIZ0fP7111yaVS9GPYq64sTvAF0N3SdYHMn6U/s1600/MonumentValley_Trailhead.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjraD41-5kAfY8GuH2ahy10JRTSiitQEd75fRYwZsEkD1zYYpc7rrwlCYG1jVNPbbXCGUqytRz4_qSjEdqkzrwyjGKOHZ3GGfEXbZAWhGePIZ0fP7111yaVS9GPYq64sTvAF0N3SdYHMn6U/s320/MonumentValley_Trailhead.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trailhead is well-marked</td></tr>
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The trail takes you downhill at the beginning, but then flattens out as it circles West Mitten Butte. <br /><br />The beginning/end section is the most difficult, due to the steepness and to section, combined with deep sand, and a bit of rock scrambling. The trail first descends below the campground tent sites and cottages before turning towards West Mitten Butte.<br /><br />You'll be running through a scrubby desert, full of sagebrush, wildflowers and gnarly juniper, an ecosystem perhaps unlike anything you've ever seen. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5X0PCijcWQjCFhGQluVnUPYHWDSdopbQSH__gSoPP1817tXJ2ukD_P8XN8yAxXXO1ZF9o_fDvJNRs9LmAT3H4WiGyJyreAMKPfgxFOMe0sLPDQB5pT9f8hr2YLD410KXcxLUKmCSnJHj/s1600/MonumentValley_Overview.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1186" data-original-width="1600" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5X0PCijcWQjCFhGQluVnUPYHWDSdopbQSH__gSoPP1817tXJ2ukD_P8XN8yAxXXO1ZF9o_fDvJNRs9LmAT3H4WiGyJyreAMKPfgxFOMe0sLPDQB5pT9f8hr2YLD410KXcxLUKmCSnJHj/s320/MonumentValley_Overview.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overview from the campground. You'll circle West Mitten on the left</td></tr>
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After a kilometer, the trail forks. Just keep right to continue looping the West Mitten. It's another 3.2 miles to circle the butte and to get back to the fork here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhROvlsHSbSXjkouh1RxPAfJl_OUOGb5AWIOUdilhr-vCDgZ6buuxkIJCWUtO1R8fSVjIWmYPzTKn6apSnNa1kHb9onBVPix3bPRzHqwWNV2iG8ptNLcyXL-PGOGRDQgYBvDjhpqu2MW8/s1600/MonumentValley_Shelter.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhROvlsHSbSXjkouh1RxPAfJl_OUOGb5AWIOUdilhr-vCDgZ6buuxkIJCWUtO1R8fSVjIWmYPzTKn6apSnNa1kHb9onBVPix3bPRzHqwWNV2iG8ptNLcyXL-PGOGRDQgYBvDjhpqu2MW8/s320/MonumentValley_Shelter.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shelter along the way</td></tr>
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The butte rises gradually to your left side: past sage, cactus and grass, red-rock terraces covered with fallen rock rise up to the vertical cliff walls. <br /><br />You'll be running towards East Mitten Butte off to the north. The Navahos say that the two rock towers rise like protective hands, guarding the valley.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OFcV3J7GXfXgk4wJLFBsgzdzqdp-PyDbbQXZ3N01E5KhB4s-8KL_NNHjJutHEE0ZbBT7_1WUnNOnne11Er1SXhR8DN6hmx3kwX6hA17BYz-g6BuKGQ_gagJF5_Oos31SnJGyMQaKYzHd/s1600/MonumentValley_TheTwoMittens.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OFcV3J7GXfXgk4wJLFBsgzdzqdp-PyDbbQXZ3N01E5KhB4s-8KL_NNHjJutHEE0ZbBT7_1WUnNOnne11Er1SXhR8DN6hmx3kwX6hA17BYz-g6BuKGQ_gagJF5_Oos31SnJGyMQaKYzHd/s320/MonumentValley_TheTwoMittens.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The two mittens, guarding the valley</td></tr>
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Seen from the side, the West Mitten Butte looks massive. But the butte is really narrow, just a curtain wall, which you'll see as you round it to the north side. From that angle, it suddenly looks like a needle.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hox326WCPdO8yIX5bhw1UYB5UQ0KGopOwje4-yBmpdIXbCA_dd4UaAFpNC1-G9OgSA7eCvjs9_XBHnw5_Ilt0h3l3QNqS9kEiuIy0bqPqsxmiKMaWh2ZBnaYpkCzNIpLO9yrrOS5GIem/s1600/MonumentValley_ButteEndView.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1165" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hox326WCPdO8yIX5bhw1UYB5UQ0KGopOwje4-yBmpdIXbCA_dd4UaAFpNC1-G9OgSA7eCvjs9_XBHnw5_Ilt0h3l3QNqS9kEiuIy0bqPqsxmiKMaWh2ZBnaYpkCzNIpLO9yrrOS5GIem/s320/MonumentValley_ButteEndView.JPG" width="233" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The butte seen from the north side</td></tr>
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At 2.7 kilometers, at a spot between the two mittens, the trail merges into a sandy jeep road. After just fifty meters, the trail leaves the Jeep road to the left (northwest) and continues circling the West Mitten.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxQp2TIPeU4le-pljndi9cJ21KYdJhY0qa7xHA8df_47DuMjvXaysXKx2wkF3-qmVt36v0kFKErnUz8t-M14dDR78GsI3TYxVq3hOjSA_jTK3yD30DnlKd212-BOI3846BnF8rKotkQTK/s1600/MonumentValley_TrailJunction.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1266" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxQp2TIPeU4le-pljndi9cJ21KYdJhY0qa7xHA8df_47DuMjvXaysXKx2wkF3-qmVt36v0kFKErnUz8t-M14dDR78GsI3TYxVq3hOjSA_jTK3yD30DnlKd212-BOI3846BnF8rKotkQTK/s320/MonumentValley_TrailJunction.JPG" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Jeep road</td></tr>
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You'll see signs of a Navaho homestead out in the valley, along the jeep road. Keep your eyes open for wild mustangs that roam the area! I saw one near the trailhead.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFqSHGx2kPX7FemmzlfYxpsKzUObJWMd2OTOyK2T5uBhrNkHtOOmz1ZuoebaAxk_GmDzyXLqfBSNa1x4bIJzVKDmyp9lIiDd6x6ZoOVE6bqikDyLIrztQSbObRxLhsDIjqKY2Wjd6wapj/s1600/MonumentValley_Mustang.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1182" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFqSHGx2kPX7FemmzlfYxpsKzUObJWMd2OTOyK2T5uBhrNkHtOOmz1ZuoebaAxk_GmDzyXLqfBSNa1x4bIJzVKDmyp9lIiDd6x6ZoOVE6bqikDyLIrztQSbObRxLhsDIjqKY2Wjd6wapj/s320/MonumentValley_Mustang.JPG" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mustang along the trail</td></tr>
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At the 4.3 kilometer mark, the trail dips into a wash for a short time. There are junipers lining the wash, and if you're there in the springtime, the desert floor will be full of wildflowers (and probably caterpillars!). Keep your eyes open for this unique biotope.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrJMA3vTtN_BLEbwTnkcoqrPSJyY4j7HgKwvr33Kkl8BgF4dnW7bXLk9FeIvFgEpGdwoH5uktj2Sdsvbx1vioOufddwDfGDJm_kTQtRgMsrpgYTEjUQaU68ed6aBrhAAtkZt5hrXZNT4M/s1600/MonumentValley_DesertFlowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1417" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrJMA3vTtN_BLEbwTnkcoqrPSJyY4j7HgKwvr33Kkl8BgF4dnW7bXLk9FeIvFgEpGdwoH5uktj2Sdsvbx1vioOufddwDfGDJm_kTQtRgMsrpgYTEjUQaU68ed6aBrhAAtkZt5hrXZNT4M/s320/MonumentValley_DesertFlowers.JPG" width="283" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Desert wildflowers</td></tr>
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When you get back to the loop junction, just turn right to follow the trail back the way you came, heading uphill and circling up beneath the campground.Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-66632177544989403492019-08-26T15:18:00.000+02:002019-08-26T15:18:03.790+02:00Zion National Park Pa'rus Trail Running Route<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2645557825" target="_blank">Click here for route map</a></span></span> <br />Length 5.6 km (3.5 miles), terrain: flat riverside run, gain 30 meters<br /><br />The Zion Pa'rus Trail is a great out-and-back run, leading you among Zion's majestic peaks from the Visitor Center to Canyon Junction, at the beginning of Zion Canyon. The trail provides a truly memorable run along a flat, paved track along the Virgin River (Pa'rus means tumbling waters in Paiute). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6W0BMcRT0nONglwmWSTEjdQaKtHNUHGA8u45V9TUJkNb6hogFjPNVjHTDZ2v74eglPpgcYw17tyQ9ya0zpM1cDw3THY745z9PBNloz-6_d_1TK21s0OPfBBrrez-oyRaNa-FbQ05bVUgu/s1600/Zion_ParusTrail_VirginRiver.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6W0BMcRT0nONglwmWSTEjdQaKtHNUHGA8u45V9TUJkNb6hogFjPNVjHTDZ2v74eglPpgcYw17tyQ9ya0zpM1cDw3THY745z9PBNloz-6_d_1TK21s0OPfBBrrez-oyRaNa-FbQ05bVUgu/s320/Zion_ParusTrail_VirginRiver.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Virgin River along the trail</td></tr>
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You can also easily vary the length of the run. To shorten it by half, you can just run up to Tram Stop 3 and take the free tram back. Or you can lengthen it as far as you want up into the canyon. Only shuttle buses are allowed past the Junction (okay, and the occasional delivery truck and lodge guest car), so running on the canyon road is not bad at all.<br /><br />The trail is easily accessible from both park campgrounds or from Springdale, taking the free town tram to the Visitor Center. <br /><br />It's an easy, slightly uphill grade the whole way. The trail is open to bicycles, so you have to share the paved path. The trail crosses the river on four pedestrian bridges, and there are several river-access points to check out the water at the riverside. I would recommend doing this at least once to take in the beauty of the whole scene.<br /><br />Jagged, multi-colored peaks rise up from every angle. This is definitely one scenic run! You can't get lost: just follow the trail. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZG3U8lIru15FzC73exOQVYszqfW9oCsMo6rrGSrurCWUYjdTByxmDqZ8LvNofrDWaagXacvyty4Ep8W84B37otLz3BMKpaXc6O2_YrXo4vkXEz5rNCRKJzLDXZOyOaz_hSvyKblktYhV/s1600/Zion_ParusTrail_Trailhead.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZG3U8lIru15FzC73exOQVYszqfW9oCsMo6rrGSrurCWUYjdTByxmDqZ8LvNofrDWaagXacvyty4Ep8W84B37otLz3BMKpaXc6O2_YrXo4vkXEz5rNCRKJzLDXZOyOaz_hSvyKblktYhV/s320/Zion_ParusTrail_Trailhead.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail-head map and info board</td></tr>
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So, if you're ready to run, find your way from the Visitor Center building to the Pa'rus trailhead just across the bridge over the Virgin River. Immediately turn right and follow that asphalt track at the riverside.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV0Jq6-KBLsSoc6-0W2pufPyO1iZCJxGOJGsd1OR93oS5cMMZwtRU-PjGPDRTAtt41I3DjyDQKSKORO2uqehqEs-bFquz7RJPQw14tDvFhjfdRsO8EaiTL806lQDiX_Q-XnGUqrdsNNkrb/s1600/Zion_ParusTrail_AtSouthCampground.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV0Jq6-KBLsSoc6-0W2pufPyO1iZCJxGOJGsd1OR93oS5cMMZwtRU-PjGPDRTAtt41I3DjyDQKSKORO2uqehqEs-bFquz7RJPQw14tDvFhjfdRsO8EaiTL806lQDiX_Q-XnGUqrdsNNkrb/s320/Zion_ParusTrail_AtSouthCampground.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rounding South Campground</td></tr>
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The trail starts by skirting the back side of South Campground to your left side, then heads out through wild meadows. Enjoy the jagged horizons to every side, and Zion's famous multicolored slick-rock.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJZ9XonSbCaEcKd0oazWSGQyQD-40r-EruV96V4olHukZHsBTo2z1kGGstxdWoDgsHSu7cmqjuouL9WfWhks36Lkct5fOtcREPfap8Zye9YcEeeJpFKyTzhGG0fGt-JJtD5E4BRmNivFl3/s1600/Zion_ParusTrail_Meadows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJZ9XonSbCaEcKd0oazWSGQyQD-40r-EruV96V4olHukZHsBTo2z1kGGstxdWoDgsHSu7cmqjuouL9WfWhks36Lkct5fOtcREPfap8Zye9YcEeeJpFKyTzhGG0fGt-JJtD5E4BRmNivFl3/s320/Zion_ParusTrail_Meadows.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Through the meadows</td></tr>
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Later, you'll come to the first river access point, and the first of the four bridges will appear. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDO7iX85sDEzJrVb906vJWGFAHuAefIIr9J20qeeMLsi9bQlmSLm5QPK00VMGEBb990u37qTc_1kv6agHGyY3kJoWZ3JFrnIpFCGqBryJ4xPYJZy2lPL024eR8ZfF62XbBjLMr-UpqmYBx/s1600/Zion_ParusTrail_Footbridges.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDO7iX85sDEzJrVb906vJWGFAHuAefIIr9J20qeeMLsi9bQlmSLm5QPK00VMGEBb990u37qTc_1kv6agHGyY3kJoWZ3JFrnIpFCGqBryJ4xPYJZy2lPL024eR8ZfF62XbBjLMr-UpqmYBx/s320/Zion_ParusTrail_Footbridges.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two of the four footbridges</td></tr>
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At the 1-kilometer mark, there is a side trail that links the Pa'rus to the Museum of Human History, where you can experience the world of the Paiute Indians and their ancestors, who have inhabited the area for thousands of years.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwnkClEN0sKW6vuncNch745TQd-tnkDwEktKGNvvlPoVyFIwT_1k4mliT1DocZOcFbN2dKvDnpvz5pavDjP21qcQ1Z10i5YaiqKwMAx6cDILhg9ZBcz44OVHZ3Iq7af26Ew-CR_SROA28/s1600/Zion_ParusTrail_AtZionHighway.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwnkClEN0sKW6vuncNch745TQd-tnkDwEktKGNvvlPoVyFIwT_1k4mliT1DocZOcFbN2dKvDnpvz5pavDjP21qcQ1Z10i5YaiqKwMAx6cDILhg9ZBcz44OVHZ3Iq7af26Ew-CR_SROA28/s320/Zion_ParusTrail_AtZionHighway.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading under the Zion Highway bridge</td></tr>
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When you go under the wooden car bridge of the Zion-Mount-Carmel-Highway, you're almost at the end. Zion Junction, just to the right of the bridge, is where the Canyon Road branches off the main highway and heads north into the wonders of Zion Canyon. The trail ends by merging into Canyon Road at Tram Stop 3.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSrkMNiV7juhIessI0BCuXo-Ci8GsKTEd0vXHFBygyU-tDZfY1U29uUmHCIwqXhLUz_SZ0CxWvTF88jRnEhzEE3QPxMzCT2ML3Vd9GtVZv1RkPFjM5vJa5UoIRRtV8r9eHABaIdhGPUCxi/s1600/Zion_ParusTrail_ViewToWatchman.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSrkMNiV7juhIessI0BCuXo-Ci8GsKTEd0vXHFBygyU-tDZfY1U29uUmHCIwqXhLUz_SZ0CxWvTF88jRnEhzEE3QPxMzCT2ML3Vd9GtVZv1RkPFjM5vJa5UoIRRtV8r9eHABaIdhGPUCxi/s320/Zion_ParusTrail_ViewToWatchman.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View back towards Watchman Peak from the highway bridge</td></tr>
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If you care to, you can just keep running as far as you please, and run back from there. Or just run to any of the tram stops (there are a total of nine), and take the tram back. <br /><br />Have fun in this most beautiful of national parks!Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-89071727524431188862019-08-12T21:57:00.000+02:002020-03-23T16:09:03.545+01:00Las Vegas Valley of Fire, Fire Wave Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2590849084" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br />
Length 2.2 km (1.4 miles), terrain: a few ups and downs, gain 50 meters<br />
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<b>Las Vegas Running Routes:</b><br />
<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2010/12/las-vegas-strip-usa.html" target="_blank">The Strip</a> <br /><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2011/12/las-vegas-downtown-freemont-running.html" target="_blank">Downtown</a> <br /><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2010/12/las-vegas-university-of-nevada-usa.html" target="_blank">University of Nevada</a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2018/04/las-vegas-red-rock-canyon-running-route.html" target="_blank">Red Rock Canyon</a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2019/07/las-vegas-valley-of-fire-white-domes.html" target="_blank">White Domes, Valley of Fire</a> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2019/08/las-vegas-valley-of-fire-fire-wave.html" target="_blank">Fire Wave, Valley of Fire</a> </span><br />
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<i>For more running routes, see the <a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/p/routes-by-countrycity.html" target="_blank">Route List</a> page.</i> <br />
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<i>NOTE: This is in the desert: don't run it during the summer heat. Either get there at daybreak or wait till the cooler part of the year!</i><br />
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Here is another short run in amazing Valley of Fire State Park, north of Las Vegas. You could add this to the short White Domes run, as this is just 200 meters to the east.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkyaK0OwrDXQAl2gPDoSt-ltHuWxjAJDEL8qxEszFxDXGlYqH4rG-fDnnrk5kZrefus47P3gc6UENzhzouG9diWi2dTy2UHi9CG7fuAT4dNpQc8Xzl9NaChVhr1jbyj4kAwEjXEklA6pn/s1600/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_MainViewpoint.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkyaK0OwrDXQAl2gPDoSt-ltHuWxjAJDEL8qxEszFxDXGlYqH4rG-fDnnrk5kZrefus47P3gc6UENzhzouG9diWi2dTy2UHi9CG7fuAT4dNpQc8Xzl9NaChVhr1jbyj4kAwEjXEklA6pn/s320/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_MainViewpoint.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Fire Wave</td></tr>
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The Fire Wave is the most famous spot in the park: undulating white- and red sandstone layers in petrified sand dunes that have been sculpted by the wind to look like undulating waves. If you have a free day and a car (the park is 60 miles northeast of the Strip), you won't want to miss it.<br />
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The start of the run is at almost the same spot as for the White Domes Trail: drive north from the Valley of Fire visitor center on White Dome Road. The Fire Wave trailhead and parking lot is the next-to-last one, before the road makes a 180-degree left-turn to the White Domes trailhead.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEick16HIr83Ug_H5d8C26sFYDevkSvVCwm5MI8Cf7HdfnEcKzrGXE5-jh-SgHpJBbgtiAApYfpsjmGinOD_fAh8TzwLyMdCSjimWzA9HpzHIW4y_zDsvaV7-lDhQoGmlg3VJ7VksLRei3Vl/s1600/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_Trailhead.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1122" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEick16HIr83Ug_H5d8C26sFYDevkSvVCwm5MI8Cf7HdfnEcKzrGXE5-jh-SgHpJBbgtiAApYfpsjmGinOD_fAh8TzwLyMdCSjimWzA9HpzHIW4y_zDsvaV7-lDhQoGmlg3VJ7VksLRei3Vl/s320/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_Trailhead.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trailhead</td></tr>
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There is a sign marking the start of the trail, where you head downhill through sand among desert plants like creosote bush, cactus and sagebrush. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX1OOr9KZmDyDgAt8hrFTm3yx0KVN1Aj7KWp74e_vO5KVZ1z6SNJVPyzRCmp3Lt6pQcTwKPNd9hxoeS1IGeat99zNx4C9EBYMd7ql6MrV8Lh6yLtRHm0W8M1j6qvY40wnX84z4RXYOkv6B/s1600/ValleyOfFre_FireWave_RoundingTheRidge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX1OOr9KZmDyDgAt8hrFTm3yx0KVN1Aj7KWp74e_vO5KVZ1z6SNJVPyzRCmp3Lt6pQcTwKPNd9hxoeS1IGeat99zNx4C9EBYMd7ql6MrV8Lh6yLtRHm0W8M1j6qvY40wnX84z4RXYOkv6B/s320/ValleyOfFre_FireWave_RoundingTheRidge.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rounding the ridge</td></tr>
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The trail turns right to avoid the red-rock ridge blocking your path in front of you. When I was there, a herd of bighorn sheep was grazing there.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEybXfoneU3wvUy40OBGQAlT10Mr5Roh_VC1RsWZaxCMtXKem_dH3g7M-rR_sIqPJGnl5-qhBew_6EmWLD7N_g-cvCu0iP6Fk9BeMMHC3_roUjcI4QQa9FEPQm2d9tuHys-yZY4vKDK81I/s1600/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_BighornSheep.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="1096" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEybXfoneU3wvUy40OBGQAlT10Mr5Roh_VC1RsWZaxCMtXKem_dH3g7M-rR_sIqPJGnl5-qhBew_6EmWLD7N_g-cvCu0iP6Fk9BeMMHC3_roUjcI4QQa9FEPQm2d9tuHys-yZY4vKDK81I/s320/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_BighornSheep.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big-horn sheep on the ridge</td></tr>
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Now the trail follows the base of the ridge, curving around its south end through boulders and caves. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKc7pzQxGrAJ92vMyYqklkV79zW5kR_0ilfcA6yNtjHa7Kylw7z4yWw6PTOqvQ1BIrFhmcYo8lnS_M6ojfMCy5ZjJJy6-5LSIjwo-nMXzZahBkHht1kr1z2I3xutrqrqdVZXfc2XXv2Qhs/s1600/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_AlongTheSlickrock.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKc7pzQxGrAJ92vMyYqklkV79zW5kR_0ilfcA6yNtjHa7Kylw7z4yWw6PTOqvQ1BIrFhmcYo8lnS_M6ojfMCy5ZjJJy6-5LSIjwo-nMXzZahBkHht1kr1z2I3xutrqrqdVZXfc2XXv2Qhs/s320/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_AlongTheSlickrock.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slick-rock along the hillside</td></tr>
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After rounding the ridge, the trail heads southeast along the edge of some red-and-white slick-rock (bare rock hillsides).<br />
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Finally, at about the 700-meter point, the trail goes up onto the slick-rock and turns straight south. Little stone cairns (piled-up stone pyramids) point the way over the firewaves to the main viewpoint.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbZwZW6rD4YV3_e5ts5d5yEiS6jOhWrQ-Isnd0Xk3AeEO2ommyS-vg9K8GiqpeMoOTEjhMNL-xQycAcQhBmJy9ApsMaoRiCJw4ny1CCckMmfDx2O3cUuYz5S5Fz_wNOIcPRKAD2lGyZ0y/s1600/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_Caves.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbZwZW6rD4YV3_e5ts5d5yEiS6jOhWrQ-Isnd0Xk3AeEO2ommyS-vg9K8GiqpeMoOTEjhMNL-xQycAcQhBmJy9ApsMaoRiCJw4ny1CCckMmfDx2O3cUuYz5S5Fz_wNOIcPRKAD2lGyZ0y/s320/ValleyOfFire_FireWave_Caves.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caves in the firewave</td></tr>
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The trail ends above some firewave-hills below, with inspiring views to the other multi-colored cliffs and peaks to the west and south. What a great place!Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-21986809922992872132019-07-22T14:46:00.002+02:002020-03-23T16:09:48.737+01:00Las Vegas Valley of Fire, White Domes Running Route<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2589327400" target="_blank">Click here for route map</a></span></span> <br />
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Length 1.7 km (1.1 miles), terrain: a few ups and downs, gain 23 meters<br />
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<b>Las Vegas Running Routes:</b><br />
<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2010/12/las-vegas-strip-usa.html" target="_blank">The Strip</a> <br /><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2011/12/las-vegas-downtown-freemont-running.html" target="_blank">Downtown</a> <br /><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2010/12/las-vegas-university-of-nevada-usa.html" target="_blank">University of Nevada</a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2018/04/las-vegas-red-rock-canyon-running-route.html" target="_blank">Red Rock Canyon</a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2019/07/las-vegas-valley-of-fire-white-domes.html" target="_blank">White Domes, Valley of Fire</a> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2019/08/las-vegas-valley-of-fire-fire-wave.html" target="_blank">Fire Wave, Valley of Fire</a> </span><br />
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<i>For more running routes, see the <a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/p/routes-by-countrycity.html" target="_blank">Route List</a> page.</i> <br />
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<i>NOTE: This is in the desert: don't run it during the summer heat. Either get there at daybreak or wait till the cooler part of the year!</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading down into the canyon</td></tr>
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If you have a free day in Las Vegas and you want to explore something completely different, experience some of the <i>Great American West</i>, then drive north of the city to <i>Valley of Fire State Park</i>. This spot encloses a ridge of red sandstone in a sea of multi-colored rock hills and canyons. There are wind-eroded holes, Native American rock carvings, petrified logs, amazing views and a few great hiking/running trails.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trail starts here. Now does this look like Vegas?</td></tr>
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This trail, White Domes, gives you a lot of variety in one short run. And you can combine it with a run on the nearby Fire Wave Trail, with its spectacular red-white layered slickrock.<br />
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This short run basically circles the white domes that dominate this corner of the park. The trail also connects to the Prospect Trail at the half-way mark, and you could follow the Prospect Trail for another 4.6 miles southwards to the campgrounds.<br />
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The trail is short but sweet: a few great vistas, rocks of all colors, cliffs and peaks, a slot canyon, ruins, caves, desert plants and cactus. You might even see some wildlife: I saw a desert iguana. And there was a herd of bighorn sheep grazing nearby. And you can easily add a run on the nearby Fire Wave Trail, just a few minutes away.<br />
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To get there, just drive north along White Domes Road from the visitor center. This road takes you to the most scenic parts of the park. The road ends right at the trailhead, after tracing a left-hand turn to the white dome rocks. <br />
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Start the run at toilet house at the parking lot. There's a sign marking the beginning, and there are trail markers and stone cairns marking the way on its circle around the dome peaks.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5znl8rAM6VQEbE4G8O9yZM32OcNFrd96T0Cj4AiwaSa-jxOr_Be81-_-YDfZflXfW83Evvgulr1eqgbm_cRfa-lWgSRwK-CkNiD1a-ZEFvg9fTpTrESYsFQbaOA_0M0I7-AfPMAmy5Btd/s1600/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_GoingDown.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5znl8rAM6VQEbE4G8O9yZM32OcNFrd96T0Cj4AiwaSa-jxOr_Be81-_-YDfZflXfW83Evvgulr1eqgbm_cRfa-lWgSRwK-CkNiD1a-ZEFvg9fTpTrESYsFQbaOA_0M0I7-AfPMAmy5Btd/s320/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_GoingDown.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking straight ahead along the trail</td></tr>
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You'll run through some deep sand at first, with a view through the jagged peaks around you. But soon you'll descend along rock stairs towards the movie-set ruins far ahead. You follow a multi-colored rock wall on your way down: white, pink, yellow, red. Don't forget to look up once in a while, the scenery is amazing!<br />
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At the bottom, the trail goes through an old film set. What looks like real ruins -- the wall of the hacienda -- are from a scene shot for the movie "<i>The Professionals"</i>, starring Lee Marvin, Burt Lancaster and Claudia Cardinale.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The movie ruins</td></tr>
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Next, the trail curves westwards to go through a short slot canyon (just a meter wide). A very cool spot, where you can't even see the sky in spots.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd5Wye45VkTW8eyIdfrjanS1N3aRqqm30XQdynMAkcajwYTLeglIUGy4h0lhc-cFeNu_hdBu47iFwK8BzoWDji1ag26Z1wFBz_f_hbEVX6GqVzYfCa_qCsPlVGIx774P1SJBrNoo_T31fV/s1600/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_SlotCanyon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd5Wye45VkTW8eyIdfrjanS1N3aRqqm30XQdynMAkcajwYTLeglIUGy4h0lhc-cFeNu_hdBu47iFwK8BzoWDji1ag26Z1wFBz_f_hbEVX6GqVzYfCa_qCsPlVGIx774P1SJBrNoo_T31fV/s320/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_SlotCanyon.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading into the short slot canyon</td></tr>
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The trail heads lightly uphill from here, and the landscape opens up to a view over the plains to the west. You'll also see a way-marker showing where the Prospect Trail splits off and heads south towards the campgrounds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNqPxUWeVB-daEI6Aiz24jUBHPd_lOXSPAsTQoa2jptCG-sCkD4sMse7PAnzg6x2N0kdKTo1j7w4J3Oa0jik9zZymkV3BzQjlW1YQcBnHeysNurLmV8yaAz0CyfXuEmVDDMHFF1v37F-M/s1600/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_TrailSplit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNqPxUWeVB-daEI6Aiz24jUBHPd_lOXSPAsTQoa2jptCG-sCkD4sMse7PAnzg6x2N0kdKTo1j7w4J3Oa0jik9zZymkV3BzQjlW1YQcBnHeysNurLmV8yaAz0CyfXuEmVDDMHFF1v37F-M/s320/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_TrailSplit.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail splits here: we head to the right</td></tr>
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At the end, you run through a gap in a ridge of red rock full of delicate holes and caves. The trail now connects into the road just below the parking lot. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_t7Hf3gjD5dR5ecESp0vOZ8hmWezk0_jVvpTHe8ZrDlwATTdyFV8K8w1EbCgZX0BniZPrduQ7P6n82bwRrMHU_prp7hF7tSQ2UTohuOOSSSM-yW-8HJp0Zlx8_LF0uelOg_KXyk_1AGv1/s1600/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_Iguana.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="439" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_t7Hf3gjD5dR5ecESp0vOZ8hmWezk0_jVvpTHe8ZrDlwATTdyFV8K8w1EbCgZX0BniZPrduQ7P6n82bwRrMHU_prp7hF7tSQ2UTohuOOSSSM-yW-8HJp0Zlx8_LF0uelOg_KXyk_1AGv1/s320/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_Iguana.JPG" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I saw a desert iguana on a rock along the way back</td></tr>
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That was simple. Maybe you're ready for the a run to the park's most famous site, the Fire Wave. That will be our next route: stay tuned!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9mp7XYag6taNO-YzImA7kVbMnoOE2FEbVv4Rcfvdo3A-k66BHxcaIpk-5xvg-9oh39FCS2dHa_Sio-RSxG5L2zx3NW5b5FBlTKPK699Hvlk-8ftNmJO5iaG9UxRzRK8oXYumWwfiPZTe/s1600/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_WayBack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="958" data-original-width="1600" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9mp7XYag6taNO-YzImA7kVbMnoOE2FEbVv4Rcfvdo3A-k66BHxcaIpk-5xvg-9oh39FCS2dHa_Sio-RSxG5L2zx3NW5b5FBlTKPK699Hvlk-8ftNmJO5iaG9UxRzRK8oXYumWwfiPZTe/s320/ValleyOfFire_WhiteDomes_WayBack.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The way back: the trail turns right at the red rocks, and heads back to the parking lot</td></tr>
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<br />Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-27697233538484512682019-07-08T22:25:00.000+02:002019-07-10T11:05:15.054+02:00Tucson Sabino Canyon Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2586837667" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br />
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Length 9.7 km (6 miles), terrain: lots of little hills, gain 200 meters<br />
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<i>NOTE: There are a few interesting variations to lengthen or shorten this route. You could lengthen it another 2 kilometers by continuing up the canyon to tram stop 9 before turning around. And you could remove the least scenic section at the beginning by starting at tram-stop 1, shortening the route by 3.9 kilometers. You can even cut the whole thing in half by taking the tram up the canyon and just running back down again.<br /><br />HEALTH NOTE: This is the desert. The time to run is early mornings, or make sure you run it in the season from autumn through spring.</i><br />
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The steep, forbidding Santa Catalina Mountains loom above Tuscon's Catalina Foothills. The range is a huge wilderness area, with lots of recreational opportunities for residents and visitors as well. The highest peak in the range, Mt. Lemmon, rises over 9,000 feet, making it the most southern ski resort in the country. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0IbyL8J5NlHY7lcnXlvaNs7kIli9FNtScWyQUoO4HanvtQ73HvTtCW54c3EHmoKR0X8uEi_4o7me_p_xr0AjRaYnA-ypQvZhi_VznMrm8KAifMYV2MG2xnOBvs-N89dPxUbVG-WU6zRd8/s1600/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_BridgeRunner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0IbyL8J5NlHY7lcnXlvaNs7kIli9FNtScWyQUoO4HanvtQ73HvTtCW54c3EHmoKR0X8uEi_4o7me_p_xr0AjRaYnA-ypQvZhi_VznMrm8KAifMYV2MG2xnOBvs-N89dPxUbVG-WU6zRd8/s320/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_BridgeRunner.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A runner heading up the canyon over one of the bridges</td></tr>
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For a good run, one of the best spots to head is much lower, and easy to reach: Sabino Canyon, on the range's southern slopes. This recreation area has been popular with the locals for generations, with its string of pools along Sabino Creek. A paved single-lane road winds its way up the canyon, free of cars. Only the park's shuttle buses (and of course bicycles, hikers and runners) are allowed on the road.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_pbHbzMq0yFGrGsioKuduIPVC1SxMd4ziN3CsyHvLk-U_ch7sx8Y-sWGjcgvNh1PC5P4ypsM8yCs87CoUXpKTTYzl2YR5fM4xDl8hMFvKvn4wJvVog28SE1JrAfgwZCsdQp53YOwDfJQ6/s1600/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_UpcanyonView.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_pbHbzMq0yFGrGsioKuduIPVC1SxMd4ziN3CsyHvLk-U_ch7sx8Y-sWGjcgvNh1PC5P4ypsM8yCs87CoUXpKTTYzl2YR5fM4xDl8hMFvKvn4wJvVog28SE1JrAfgwZCsdQp53YOwDfJQ6/s320/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_UpcanyonView.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Sabino Creek pool</td></tr>
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The creek forms a thin, green oasis, with its cool, shady pools, waterfalls and beaches nestled under the cottonwood trees, threading through the boulders that have rolled down from the mountains above. Just a bit higher up, on the dry slopes, saguaro- and cholla-cactus populate a very different desert landscape in the blazing Sonora sun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLOadlNOdqnmj1r88VAm_xzuwtqkQOxAMERDs3WcUIcYdGi5buo8SIxRbFJtSZ9BoiiULoglAY2QCOOKbr5nUcfil2BBviv73dtiVoVDPHWmYmxHtPoF7oIWoy2t7cZs9_1dMhgNIvwSy/s1600/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_Cactus.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1033" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLOadlNOdqnmj1r88VAm_xzuwtqkQOxAMERDs3WcUIcYdGi5buo8SIxRbFJtSZ9BoiiULoglAY2QCOOKbr5nUcfil2BBviv73dtiVoVDPHWmYmxHtPoF7oIWoy2t7cZs9_1dMhgNIvwSy/s320/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_Cactus.JPG" width="206" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cactus along the canyon walls</td></tr>
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The road crosses nine stone bridges built by the WPA during the Great Depression, rising 500 feet (150 meters) from the visitor center to the end at tram-stop 9. The road gains much of its elevation towards the end, between stops 7 and 9, so this route will turn around at stop 7.<br />
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The park is open from dawn till dusk, and there is an entry charge. If you want to take the tram, you have to pay extra for that, but you can jump on and off as you please. There are a variety of toilet houses and a couple of water fountains along the way, as well as the various swimming holes you might want to jump into when the going gets hot. You can park at the visitor center and you can also take the tram from there, or head directly up the walkway next to the road into the canyon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWuB2J_wLjtR5xjnmpeAvQnci9eATdM0jN026SJtkrfHy_pMPhro_fqxWRyAINFoEBYaMhcwvsne9zjMYVD-OtX8L_sZqLf3xGImadPOHXATeCgphjRXAwm5RsSKBRHhzePsmueet0ZeBT/s1600/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_Warning.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1272" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWuB2J_wLjtR5xjnmpeAvQnci9eATdM0jN026SJtkrfHy_pMPhro_fqxWRyAINFoEBYaMhcwvsne9zjMYVD-OtX8L_sZqLf3xGImadPOHXATeCgphjRXAwm5RsSKBRHhzePsmueet0ZeBT/s320/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_Warning.JPG" width="254" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Despite the warning, you probably won't see any mountain lions. But keep a lookout for other wildlife!</td></tr>
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The visitor center is located at the corner of East Sunrise Drive and North Sabino Canyon Road. For entry fees ($5 in 2019), exact address and other details, visit <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coronado/recarea/?recid=75425">https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coronado/recarea/?recid=75425</a><br />
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So, assuming you're going to run from the visitor center up to tram-stop 7 and back, get yourself to the west side of the center, where the trams load up, and start running northeastwards, up the walkway along the right-side of Upper Sabino Canyon Road.<br />
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This is the least scenic part of the run, flat and there are a few side-roads and other trails branching off. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNzEiQQcWcJQNX7u-6stYAUxvMv3J8m5CeowPkt0f61cAf5vP34edhCVKYkgecPMHTOzPs5zgJD_PVtq8DgSv9soTiVPmPCDs73AqhBiFiwzZy7D2VmRoK67ZayP20VNw4rh5Q_2c2Vlt/s1600/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_AndersonDam.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1117" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNzEiQQcWcJQNX7u-6stYAUxvMv3J8m5CeowPkt0f61cAf5vP34edhCVKYkgecPMHTOzPs5zgJD_PVtq8DgSv9soTiVPmPCDs73AqhBiFiwzZy7D2VmRoK67ZayP20VNw4rh5Q_2c2Vlt/s320/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_AndersonDam.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anderson Dam is a favorite swimming hole up-canyon</td></tr>
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After you cross the side road to the right towards Sabino Dam, the walkway ends and you run along the asphalt road for the rest of the route up-canyon.<br />
<br />
After a mile, you enter the canyon itself. The road approaches the creek, curves to the left and goes by a nice little waterside picnic area and a water fountain. <br />
<br />
You'll then cross the first stone bridge (very clever how they built them low so that flood waters can just flow over the tops instead of sweeping them away!) The first tram stop waits around the next corner.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5130_Nq4W_F7OjdWbAFBCvr-GXA8QrbjPGw7B-w1WcsyZc3cTvsFqeTb4lKAQL_TkSW0pNDm7UVOWwPm-S5GuZ9CD3bLzwVziTxtQdp4FJuZoAejyoh9fgCT5FxCqhGj1AoeJ6GPGPDN/s1600/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_Pool.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5130_Nq4W_F7OjdWbAFBCvr-GXA8QrbjPGw7B-w1WcsyZc3cTvsFqeTb4lKAQL_TkSW0pNDm7UVOWwPm-S5GuZ9CD3bLzwVziTxtQdp4FJuZoAejyoh9fgCT5FxCqhGj1AoeJ6GPGPDN/s320/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_Pool.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another pool along Sabino Creek</td></tr>
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This is the fun part: heading up and down little rises, over bridges, skirting pools and beaches. What an escape from the sprawl and heat of Tucson.<br />
<br />
You'll pass one tram-stop after another. Most are near a bridge, with a pool and maybe a beach. <br />
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When you get to tram-stop 7, the Sabino Historic Trail heads off to the right, leading uphill. This is our turnaround point, unless you want to extend it to the final tram-stop, number 9, along the steeper stretch of road. <br />
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Even at stop 9, it's possible to keep going up-canyon, but the road ends and you need to follow a rough trail switchbacking steeply up the mountainside, through the cactus. <br />
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On the way back, find a good swimming hole to kick off your shoes and have a good cooling off!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbfgKwkp0cKmiyK1NZL-OBXsS4DjHhDk3T-_Hbx3wW2MqkFcD53fWJbJYBHKu52fe94tqxwvo-qzJIGIhyYyPHzqpFLaCuz0fWS7VDS3iqNqYrJ_8lUtraTdHVu62L08Z16gRr-QdaysB/s1600/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_AuthorCoolingOff.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1408" data-original-width="1600" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbfgKwkp0cKmiyK1NZL-OBXsS4DjHhDk3T-_Hbx3wW2MqkFcD53fWJbJYBHKu52fe94tqxwvo-qzJIGIhyYyPHzqpFLaCuz0fWS7VDS3iqNqYrJ_8lUtraTdHVu62L08Z16gRr-QdaysB/s320/Tucson_SabinoCanyon_AuthorCoolingOff.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The author taking his own advice</td></tr>
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Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-54709484330482939562019-04-10T10:11:00.002+02:002019-04-10T10:11:35.672+02:00Dinkelsbühl Old-Town Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2458138255" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br />Length 5 km (3.1 miles), terrain: easy, flat, gain 41 meters<br /><br />Dinkelsbühl is one of those fairytale towns along Germany's <i>Romantic Road</i>: church towers rise above city walls lined by stone watchtowers. Heading through the city gates, the old-town lanes lead you from one little market square to the next, passing thousand-year-old monasteries and fountains surrounded by of half-timbered houses. If you visit south Germany, there's a good chance you'll end up in Dinkelsbühl.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGmXsQypFZLFrLG6XgYuMY6UYPkwUSSOzlKBp5MgUXvfAnbY8gBP_bhUDXPI1FPZ811qxMm64oobLW38Z0tnzqRvv8J6ofomOweXd0XHM-uQCYZGHikELsYX-ccX2OMvcx7JgydznhLZa/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_Koppengasse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGmXsQypFZLFrLG6XgYuMY6UYPkwUSSOzlKBp5MgUXvfAnbY8gBP_bhUDXPI1FPZ811qxMm64oobLW38Z0tnzqRvv8J6ofomOweXd0XHM-uQCYZGHikELsYX-ccX2OMvcx7JgydznhLZa/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_Koppengasse.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old-town street in Dinkelsbühl</td></tr>
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Dinkelsbühl blends a mixture of South German culture, with good food and beer, perched on the border between Swabia, Bavaria and Franken. The <i>Romantic Road</i> (a section of route 25) links a string of scenic towns from Würzburg to Augsburg like pearls on a chain.<br /><br />And there is no better way to discover a beautiful town like this than to put on your running shoes and start following the alleys past the gate-towers and little shops.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGLZya2BL49EKcL2-5-yu0C6Dx03YoqhsyifdSrb8D4p6bRp21Lfs3HBl1c3k67fy-rzJL9y4Do7omt1GDkSd8sAMXuDlMWYj1OV-urRpoIDmBYWonX_ekk9eVZyF7fGFp5hyphenhyphengFjcTYlG/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_Doorway.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGLZya2BL49EKcL2-5-yu0C6Dx03YoqhsyifdSrb8D4p6bRp21Lfs3HBl1c3k67fy-rzJL9y4Do7omt1GDkSd8sAMXuDlMWYj1OV-urRpoIDmBYWonX_ekk9eVZyF7fGFp5hyphenhyphengFjcTYlG/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_Doorway.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">House entrance in the old-town</td></tr>
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In Dinkelsbühl, you can run a loop around the old town, outside the walls, and also run a few zig-zags within the walls. <br /><br /><i>NOTE: There are also runs taking you outside town in each direction, see <a href="https://www.outdooractive.com/de/touren/#cat=Wanderung&filter=b-loopTour-1&view=listMap&wt=Dinkelsb%C3%BChl,%20Deutschland%20(undefined)&zc=14,10.3199,49.07836">https://www.outdooractive.com/de/touren/#cat=Wanderung&filter=b-loopTour-1&view=listMap&wt=Dinkelsb%C3%BChl,%20Deutschland%20(undefined)&zc=14,10.3199,49.07836</a> </i><br />This run will just cover the essentials, circling the walled city once, then heading inside to wind through the narrow streets past the main sights in the old town.<br /><br />Dinkelsbühl is shaped like an elongated triangle, with the angles pointing north, south and west. We'll start this inspiring run at the north end of town, outside one of the main gate towers, <i>Rothenburger Tor</i> (where the road to beautiful Rothenburg heads off to the north). There is a small lake there, <i>Rothenburger Weiher</i>, part of the water barriers that once protected the walled town.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXNIAIuQvzQrpfVNpRrdnBCppPzLj-yW5-9p_6aOyCZ8ujRxOtm2pT2wsB6P0VDlJf9NGH7Y7X5jd1hJ24BGxKTaBG4L0_PLpf4BJCoA6h4Nr3KPc0bTqhwIOyTOPRfxsFkgbJaI9sX77/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_RothenburgerTor.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXNIAIuQvzQrpfVNpRrdnBCppPzLj-yW5-9p_6aOyCZ8ujRxOtm2pT2wsB6P0VDlJf9NGH7Y7X5jd1hJ24BGxKTaBG4L0_PLpf4BJCoA6h4Nr3KPc0bTqhwIOyTOPRfxsFkgbJaI9sX77/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_RothenburgerTor.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rothenburger Tor</td></tr>
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To start the run, walk out through the gate, with the massive fortifications behind you, and run with the lake to your left side, heading north. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIhes_GG_N_dhonvST3I_3-mEmQI4dbCOVks7ZLTGGAUO6MqCly-nn744uSPcl0Ami4VSRoFPsTkWCNkEQZQwI725pMZfO8TH1jZM0D6y0bkzgkqnw0rr8mFnjtKEOWsybf7L81gQQzVX/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_Faulturm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIhes_GG_N_dhonvST3I_3-mEmQI4dbCOVks7ZLTGGAUO6MqCly-nn744uSPcl0Ami4VSRoFPsTkWCNkEQZQwI725pMZfO8TH1jZM0D6y0bkzgkqnw0rr8mFnjtKEOWsybf7L81gQQzVX/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_Faulturm.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Faulturm tower</td></tr>
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At the north end of the lake, turn left to continue following the lakeside, and then left again to head back towards the fortifications, at the <i>Faulturm </i>tower. There is a public park here, with a big gazebo. There are a couple of parallel pedestrian trails following the outside of the walls, going southwards. Stay on the one closest to the wall, in the old moat. An earthen berm to the right side protects the city walls. You'll pass smaller towers every hundred meters or so, a really medieval setting.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHSjZx0YCdGjeiqFtbdTGjTwidT0iMUWBt-q0-nsP81xqJE0eWiHwIKjHj9Flmk_gBkoVX_LfzN1DLnzio3vQMW29zQCYsWYeYVWOy2veb0SlB5rGErhlCkdp6dV5qKT7ulqsa9StoJU-/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_AlongTheWalls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHSjZx0YCdGjeiqFtbdTGjTwidT0iMUWBt-q0-nsP81xqJE0eWiHwIKjHj9Flmk_gBkoVX_LfzN1DLnzio3vQMW29zQCYsWYeYVWOy2veb0SlB5rGErhlCkdp6dV5qKT7ulqsa9StoJU-/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_AlongTheWalls.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moat trail: wall to the left, protective earthen berm to the right</td></tr>
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You'll head under a bridge that brings traffic through the western gate, the <i>Segringer Tor</i>. Keep running southwards.<br /><br />After the one-kilometer-mark, you'll go under a narrow pedestrian bridge, where the trail circles back to take you up to the embankment to the right. Once up there, continue running southwards outside the walls. There are now various gardens between you and the walls.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiysYkKbaW-EwyGi1I3RX3Li6c27lv6MHAt8-b9s41x5wo__nEMavZn8ptYVEIG7OpMkK4MvK1uikwMGqax-LEtrcJoMelYud_1DEyEb_R9fn_KpOk-M1wleD5hdUjZLML2O0oKrIFXJRFt/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_Westwall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiysYkKbaW-EwyGi1I3RX3Li6c27lv6MHAt8-b9s41x5wo__nEMavZn8ptYVEIG7OpMkK4MvK1uikwMGqax-LEtrcJoMelYud_1DEyEb_R9fn_KpOk-M1wleD5hdUjZLML2O0oKrIFXJRFt/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_Westwall.JPG" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trail at the Segringer gate</td></tr>
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When you come to the busy Südring traffic-circle at the south end of the old-town, keep running along the outside of the walls, past the <i>Third-Dimension Museum</i> (with its interesting optical illusions) located inside a fortified water mill with pointed corner towers. This is the two-kilometer-mark.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGKwP2-yqfKeWKAgI05kf-aOgIwOoFUEBTTiZ1-TbyCIQbPX_ifLuN2GPR02UgTeOpJg-UEX25QYj7FK8sHEJDRSwgYqGTnqpZBvzOWlt0u5GHARYIVRuGJuuM5fb7NiDlE-3zfNtsx62x/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_3DMuseum.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGKwP2-yqfKeWKAgI05kf-aOgIwOoFUEBTTiZ1-TbyCIQbPX_ifLuN2GPR02UgTeOpJg-UEX25QYj7FK8sHEJDRSwgYqGTnqpZBvzOWlt0u5GHARYIVRuGJuuM5fb7NiDlE-3zfNtsx62x/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_3DMuseum.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 3D museum</td></tr>
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Continue on the trail as it now turns northward, with a narrow side-arm of the Wörnitz River to your left, along the eastern walls. The open parkland keeps things nice and quiet.<br /><br />There is a group of old houses outside the western gate, <i>Wörnitztor</i>. Keep running north through the archway through the yellow house, and into more parkland as we approach the spot where we started the run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZ9sufWMXyd8QYldlXcPxvszxNHRn-Mbfyw7MGO6GsxHXH5B6_BreqIqoyz-lrDpSQm-sLZRqdtIiwmwShiwFYe_czrL1CgEG375DGUYyufb5NWFHNHwbx8WGcENAIh2970NISvNQG5r5/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_Woernitztor.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZ9sufWMXyd8QYldlXcPxvszxNHRn-Mbfyw7MGO6GsxHXH5B6_BreqIqoyz-lrDpSQm-sLZRqdtIiwmwShiwFYe_czrL1CgEG375DGUYyufb5NWFHNHwbx8WGcENAIh2970NISvNQG5r5/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_Woernitztor.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wörnitztor gate-tower</td></tr>
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When you come to the <i>Schleuse Biergarten</i>, where we started the run, turn left to run westwards directly between the wall and the <i>Rothenburger Weiher</i> pond, at the three-kilometer-mark.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHJvuc3gGwIZkveKoaAZMCIaGCos-cVc5JMkh8O_3KJUl_hoN3Fu0XvsH3qIhJPb8s2O1WGWmzAeisOrKL2_bwZWHYY6rmM6Mod6TXjTDv9W4VBvGJqFEGHGvlV6x9adcooaoAhPHgHM1/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_RothenburgerWeiher.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1164" data-original-width="1600" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHJvuc3gGwIZkveKoaAZMCIaGCos-cVc5JMkh8O_3KJUl_hoN3Fu0XvsH3qIhJPb8s2O1WGWmzAeisOrKL2_bwZWHYY6rmM6Mod6TXjTDv9W4VBvGJqFEGHGvlV6x9adcooaoAhPHgHM1/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_RothenburgerWeiher.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The walls along the lake</td></tr>
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Just before the round <i>Faulturm </i>at the northwest corner of town, turn left into the open pedestrian gateway through the wall, going into the old-town for the first time. Head between the old-fashioned gardens to the street ahead, Bauhofstraße. Right there on the corner is a huge half-timbered building that was once the armory, now used as a clubhouse for the kids' costume fest, <i>Kinderzech</i>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9OmD3FQWThdV6gU8jMcr2KVWzr9Hh013rKUUmW4MGp3PMOMbDDLlPmplN-QBqMjYhLRP8AhLISgU2sONoKe5Y1-a51cLPZOYeOeqV4etljIVCxwDsoQ8kO0mFkXUwCWp5frt4f45brEN3/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_Kinderzech.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1389" data-original-width="939" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9OmD3FQWThdV6gU8jMcr2KVWzr9Hh013rKUUmW4MGp3PMOMbDDLlPmplN-QBqMjYhLRP8AhLISgU2sONoKe5Y1-a51cLPZOYeOeqV4etljIVCxwDsoQ8kO0mFkXUwCWp5frt4f45brEN3/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_Kinderzech.JPG" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old timbering at the Kinderzech</td></tr>
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Now just run south on this scenic street, past places like <i>Weib's Brauhaus</i>, the Schweinemarkt and the <i>Rathaus </i>(town hall). After you cross Segringer Straße, the street name changes to Föhrenberggasse as it curves to the southeast. <br /><br />You'll pass a big baroque palace on the right side, the former local headquarters of the Teutonic Order, now used by the German tax authorities. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teutonic Order palace</td></tr>
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When you get to Schäfersgäßlein, turn left and run the one block to Nördlinger Straße. We're almost at the south end of the old-town now, so turn left and head back north through the eastern neighborhoods.<br /><br />In a few blocks you'll come to the main church, the Gothic St. Georg, at the wine market. There are some other amazing old houses lining the market square here, take a look!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic-WUW5jr2u3GN9zHU03Z_DzwIMHzK2QWh0vbnJF3x2FW4PhUm-nt-sw6fLd7XxTfZgVRzcI8w31wZnEMSivZNsXAGL3o4UMv9msFrvcNA_NAeBZovKFWtiBg7q3A0l7saj4OSIkDqNTaF/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_Weinmarkt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic-WUW5jr2u3GN9zHU03Z_DzwIMHzK2QWh0vbnJF3x2FW4PhUm-nt-sw6fLd7XxTfZgVRzcI8w31wZnEMSivZNsXAGL3o4UMv9msFrvcNA_NAeBZovKFWtiBg7q3A0l7saj4OSIkDqNTaF/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_Weinmarkt.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Weinmarkt</td></tr>
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Now run the few blocks north along Dr.-Martin-Luther-Straße towards our starting point at <i>Rothenburger Tor</i>. <br /><br />Just before you get there, maybe turn right into the courtyard of that big yellow complex of buildings on the right side: the old hospital, the <i>Spital</i>. There are water wells, a water mill, a tread-mill, a theater and other interesting stuff to take a look at on a quick loop through the courtyard.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Hse6vs6mlXhbfGssxE6KGxtIZUR2PaW3T3_geNyvK-rF9kkQDFaBdiWENoxMM2inREzfe7spAkWYM2-82H_9acz8cRTurlpnluKmmqNx1jkndGBsvhijFRqsyVm31zwI_ldzP67Q0RDK/s1600/Dinkelsbuehl_Spitalhof.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Hse6vs6mlXhbfGssxE6KGxtIZUR2PaW3T3_geNyvK-rF9kkQDFaBdiWENoxMM2inREzfe7spAkWYM2-82H_9acz8cRTurlpnluKmmqNx1jkndGBsvhijFRqsyVm31zwI_ldzP67Q0RDK/s320/Dinkelsbuehl_Spitalhof.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the Spital courtyard</td></tr>
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Now, aren't you glad you decided to get out and run today?Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-54684864557487085782019-03-03T23:17:00.002+01:002019-03-04T08:16:50.713+01:00Erfurt Old-Town Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2415107698" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br />
Length 5.6 km (3.5 miles), terrain: easy, flat, gain 40 meters<br />
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Erfurt is packed with medieval beauty. The capital city of Germany's state of Thüringen isn't known by many people out there in the world, but Erfurt is a special place. And it's a great town for a memorable run.<br />
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This run will take you past many of the old-town's best sights: the unique house-lined bridge called the Krämerbrücke, the breath-taking cathedral hill, the Zitadelle fortress, the downtown, and the relaxed, green trails along the Gera River.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippNTV495eEcYNd-BcSqzT4iMtqkZnTq3l3cTUXyn793jVOYTocBJRwV2zywe4JhAzarJtNmMUCcHHZHbLI1YY6LL4pSCW8xYysLbF_kOYtLxEuwG5E1n0CrNAouBwvccoxfbeYN6Q0Rn7/s1600/Erfurt_Rathaus.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippNTV495eEcYNd-BcSqzT4iMtqkZnTq3l3cTUXyn793jVOYTocBJRwV2zywe4JhAzarJtNmMUCcHHZHbLI1YY6LL4pSCW8xYysLbF_kOYtLxEuwG5E1n0CrNAouBwvccoxfbeYN6Q0Rn7/s320/Erfurt_Rathaus.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Erfurt town hall</td></tr>
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So, if you find yourself in this great little city and want to discover its treasures by foot, come along on this run through lots of great scenery!<br />
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To get running, let's first head to my favorite spot in town, the little park along the river at the north side of the Krämerbrücke. There, where the <i>Augustiner </i>beer-garden terrace meets the rippling water of the Gera there's a great view of the bridge. You can take in the beauty of the wall of half-timbered houses on top of the stone bridge, and see the old ford right next to it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZpR9rBJMjogUABuv2-y6Es6FcHeV69VXSKpVLreX2HOrPynvb1V11J_7e9pHkLbzlJpHhSF-T_YBMFfhC6N1fhf76J2jCPLGldNSZYD7PZ9MPziYO_9K6WIvbvC_4g_nPnWuv54MwJIt/s1600/Erfurt_Kr%25C3%25A4mmerbr%25C3%25BCcke.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZpR9rBJMjogUABuv2-y6Es6FcHeV69VXSKpVLreX2HOrPynvb1V11J_7e9pHkLbzlJpHhSF-T_YBMFfhC6N1fhf76J2jCPLGldNSZYD7PZ9MPziYO_9K6WIvbvC_4g_nPnWuv54MwJIt/s320/Erfurt_Kr%25C3%25A4mmerbr%25C3%25BCcke.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Krämerbrücke</td></tr>
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So let's get running: follow the path up onto the bridge and turn right to run over the Krämerbrücke, heading west. The walls of houses to each side make it hard to imagine that you're crossing a bridge. The old houses are home to a lot of nice tourist boutiques nowadays. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssCsmDN6DlFl3xIO5ZbkR6NW_e4RjC0-SSGnxMtfFwvoSm8qOKYX2hDH1kgxFdC9kMqX8PvXOJmxF4vMgShg3rTaTG9Ub8zgEHMB3zCekKrQ_308UPRxqjlZDprN4pJWIu8hmw8cjDf21/s1600/Erfurt_Kr%25C3%25A4merbr%25C3%25BCcke2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssCsmDN6DlFl3xIO5ZbkR6NW_e4RjC0-SSGnxMtfFwvoSm8qOKYX2hDH1kgxFdC9kMqX8PvXOJmxF4vMgShg3rTaTG9Ub8zgEHMB3zCekKrQ_308UPRxqjlZDprN4pJWIu8hmw8cjDf21/s320/Erfurt_Kr%25C3%25A4merbr%25C3%25BCcke2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing the bridge</td></tr>
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When you exit the bridge, at Benediktplatz, the old synagogue is hidden in a courtyard across the square. Another great view of the bridge can be had if you turn to the right and look out from there.<br />
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Head straight out along Fischmarkt for the two blocks until you come to the real Fischmarkt square itself. This is one of the nicest spots in town, with the gothic town hall and some amazing renaissance houses gracing the <i>Platz</i>. We'll come back here again later for a closer look.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-T4TUoLJZNsCZ410G6632LemRvz-bp65NDuZmrrT4GWLCvmyRttjiFfRJRI6giFKBhg6AQeJ5gbBhy4MtU9ajYkwRnQy6OgoaYS8K7MO4L-E9PSWbMMs3qAJNLpmaxOhr6tKwJIvH7iNX/s1600/Erfurt_ZumBreitenHerd.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-T4TUoLJZNsCZ410G6632LemRvz-bp65NDuZmrrT4GWLCvmyRttjiFfRJRI6giFKBhg6AQeJ5gbBhy4MtU9ajYkwRnQy6OgoaYS8K7MO4L-E9PSWbMMs3qAJNLpmaxOhr6tKwJIvH7iNX/s320/Erfurt_ZumBreitenHerd.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zum Breiten Herd at the Fischmarkt</td></tr>
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Now, keep going straight along the old shopping street, Marktstraße. You will run straight into the gigantic, open square in front of the cathedral hill, Domplatz. Sometimes there is a vegetable market there, but it never begins to fill this huge space.<br />
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The cathedral hill is pretty impressive, with its twin churches throning on the little hill across the square. The Gothic cathedral is to the left, and the three-steepled St. Severin's church on the right. Both are absolutely beautiful inside, and you should make sure that you come back later to explore.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcOBi4K2fTS0-hiEAGWLRc2E-HYtpcucaewWP1t4qOGM5aH-00TAxAPqDgjPU8WJzLDrhVH_N5YY-tzEYF9K2_-1mLcPBrBVLdMgEqRvYM_CBVK7e494-KvwfMeS7N5wphD9JbgME3sp8/s1600/Erfurt_Domplatz.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1148" data-original-width="1600" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcOBi4K2fTS0-hiEAGWLRc2E-HYtpcucaewWP1t4qOGM5aH-00TAxAPqDgjPU8WJzLDrhVH_N5YY-tzEYF9K2_-1mLcPBrBVLdMgEqRvYM_CBVK7e494-KvwfMeS7N5wphD9JbgME3sp8/s320/Erfurt_Domplatz.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral on left and St. Severin</td></tr>
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But now, let's run up the steps that lead to the churches and run to the back side to take-in the view to the west.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-duGTQZ_Ne8bPbEIUjWo9cUFt-U3v6JlBrDxiUl66STSqJ93J2uDeGNa9WBGOy_9H7RL5y9VRSk4hLZPVCo8xX7D6pBRociCh3R8ySU2mmlWfzswfomz4BRRi_chyphenhyphenIX7IT9aOuSwh4yDM/s1600/Erfurt_StSeverin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-duGTQZ_Ne8bPbEIUjWo9cUFt-U3v6JlBrDxiUl66STSqJ93J2uDeGNa9WBGOy_9H7RL5y9VRSk4hLZPVCo8xX7D6pBRociCh3R8ySU2mmlWfzswfomz4BRRi_chyphenhyphenIX7IT9aOuSwh4yDM/s320/Erfurt_StSeverin.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At St. Severin</td></tr>
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Now, run back down the steps and turn left to run to the north end of the <i>Domplatz</i>. There, on the next hill, Petersberg, thrones another highlight: the hilltop fortress called the <i>Zitadelle</i>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCHazVkCxCqo4KQHw9tHTv8-1PsIg-HEN5N56CuBC7dY1dAcMFav2e_DBxzmyno53Bg0q3kyvqeaiPeCU-PwojHS6Ddyva_Q12LtrfP23L_cAcB0BwfzA88eHhynYai4UFCO7TwwU-BpR/s1600/Erfurt_Zitadelle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="833" data-original-width="1561" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCHazVkCxCqo4KQHw9tHTv8-1PsIg-HEN5N56CuBC7dY1dAcMFav2e_DBxzmyno53Bg0q3kyvqeaiPeCU-PwojHS6Ddyva_Q12LtrfP23L_cAcB0BwfzA88eHhynYai4UFCO7TwwU-BpR/s320/Erfurt_Zitadelle.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking up towards the citadel</td></tr>
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The stout stone walls beckon for a loop through the fort! So cross the street and head up the stone walkway heading up through the lawns along the hillside. There is a little vineyard to your left. <br />
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When you approach the walls, take the metal steps up to the higher road that heads into the main fort gate, <i>Peterstor</i>. The ornate gateway takes you through an archway below the fort commander's building.<br />
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Follow the cobblestoned lane as it continues upwards to the big open square. There is an old field-cannon there. Turn right and run through the square towards the big buildings to the right, along the north side.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0a0Xf8EeC3c2-TA56eRS7QRX1R4phzdNvhYgRBKi9BA0hMJeEYJ6pYEXhyphenhyphenez-bqcthmC3j1jZH27D1IkD2slpgbYnAnF3Djv1YMSewGOQRrfRXc4RUVrhW5wjxmECIVdTTQ0X8_zphHf/s1600/Erfurt_StPetersburg_Gate.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="1086" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0a0Xf8EeC3c2-TA56eRS7QRX1R4phzdNvhYgRBKi9BA0hMJeEYJ6pYEXhyphenhyphenez-bqcthmC3j1jZH27D1IkD2slpgbYnAnF3Djv1YMSewGOQRrfRXc4RUVrhW5wjxmECIVdTTQ0X8_zphHf/s320/Erfurt_StPetersburg_Gate.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The way up</td></tr>
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There is a huge, abandoned barracks building and a romance-style stone building with an ill-fitting roof. The stone building is a thousand-year-old church, St. Peter's, which has a big history. It was part of an ancient Benedictine monastery which once stood here, next to the kaiser's castle. It was in this church that rebel duke Henry the Lion begged for forgiveness from Kaiser Barbarossa. When Napoleon conquered the area, the church was turned into a field hospital. It later burned out when the fort was attacked by the Prussians. The repaired building was later used as a warehouse, covered with the current roof.<br />
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Run between the two buildings towards the back. There, take the steps downward along the bastion walls. Now turn left and run back along the backside of the abandoned barracks building, turning left to come back to the fort's main square again. <br />
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Now let's run back out the same way that we came, heading downhill past the vineyard again, to the Domplatz.<br />
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Run south across the square, past the obelisk and then exit to the southeast on Kettenstraße. <br />
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Continue along Paulstraße, which ends at a long church, the Predigerkirche. Continue along the left side of the church along Predigerstraße for a block, until you come to the little lane called Schuhgasse, where you turn left and find yourself back at the Fischmarkt, with its <i>Römer </i>fountain. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwK-ygEdJ4EGcDFeoZTPhtrr8WT_4PyC5iupgRK33653SITGxvHp3iqAfD-rU7PV2aU8TK5V6nvLMVR65iF68gKgBxbYUZmSwc1BWJa6zowfIV7MNIfsVIMVCB1NPuazAEDugepq4Wt2Lw/s1600/Erfurt_Fischmarkt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwK-ygEdJ4EGcDFeoZTPhtrr8WT_4PyC5iupgRK33653SITGxvHp3iqAfD-rU7PV2aU8TK5V6nvLMVR65iF68gKgBxbYUZmSwc1BWJa6zowfIV7MNIfsVIMVCB1NPuazAEDugepq4Wt2Lw/s320/Erfurt_Fischmarkt.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Römer fountain at the Fischmarkt</td></tr>
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Now let's run through the lively shopping area of the old town, exiting the square towards the southeast along Schlösserstraße. <br />
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You'll soon cross the Gera River again, where there is an old water mill. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAi7zR2uJ3KCUCuNaeyqZpL5QrfZt1isQExhhgyMljHlx1fHWcbJYwqTjj2XJkL5DVK5GtQzX_Z4NCztBZlHIjFbZbSTK-_7pZfjc6tKl07Tyo41LmOAvzuj7iD-aDU5lHxXmr0yKo8Eq/s1600/Erfurt_WaterMill.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAi7zR2uJ3KCUCuNaeyqZpL5QrfZt1isQExhhgyMljHlx1fHWcbJYwqTjj2XJkL5DVK5GtQzX_Z4NCztBZlHIjFbZbSTK-_7pZfjc6tKl07Tyo41LmOAvzuj7iD-aDU5lHxXmr0yKo8Eq/s320/Erfurt_WaterMill.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the water mill</td></tr>
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Continue straight along Schlösserstraße, where a tram line follows the street, taking us to the <i>Anger</i>, the main shopping district downtown.<br />
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Turn left at the Anger square and follow it to the Martin Luther statue and the church behind him where he once preached.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLyK0udveGRuI1gd39CyOtyhqUSH3ra0qzZa9z7GgpxoUrbXMqn1HZAlLLFcEfwh3i3jxNa34zzN984yXUR5nRZzZXh-qbuMIjEhpRvZjN6tbzHof1X4onrAAaY6sZQGhg4PlkPWEg1u20/s1600/Erfurt_Anger.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLyK0udveGRuI1gd39CyOtyhqUSH3ra0qzZa9z7GgpxoUrbXMqn1HZAlLLFcEfwh3i3jxNa34zzN984yXUR5nRZzZXh-qbuMIjEhpRvZjN6tbzHof1X4onrAAaY6sZQGhg4PlkPWEg1u20/s320/Erfurt_Anger.JPG" width="307" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demonstrators at the Anger</td></tr>
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Just past the church, turn left on Meienbergstraße and follow it back to the Krämerbrücke, this time at the other end at Wenigemarkt.<br />
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The Aegidien Church covers the entrance to the bridge, so you run through the archway under the church to access the bridge again, then turning right to exit back to our starting point next to the river.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCyAmnJVrTEuj55zHEffh4NmMvPpJbreCayx3OQkzFLj-aSbebx_d1dXT6ci4bovyE4KV1xdS2JT4Ao_sFEF2aPLnElAvxTLr4WQZWoncm7SrKZzwR5YrkxI9qG5BkGlY-_n1FIZVC3lD4/s1600/Erfurt_WenigerMarkt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCyAmnJVrTEuj55zHEffh4NmMvPpJbreCayx3OQkzFLj-aSbebx_d1dXT6ci4bovyE4KV1xdS2JT4Ao_sFEF2aPLnElAvxTLr4WQZWoncm7SrKZzwR5YrkxI9qG5BkGlY-_n1FIZVC3lD4/s320/Erfurt_WenigerMarkt.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Ägidien at the Krämerbrücke entrance</td></tr>
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You could stop here and enjoy the view if you feel like it, but why not keep running for another kilometer and explore a bit more of the leafy riverside?<br />
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So that's what the route does now: head north past the <i>Augustiner </i>and exit the park onto Schildgasse and then head further north on Comthurstraße. <br />
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At the Nikolai Hotel the street ends, but continue northwest on the riverside trail. After a few blocks, the trail loops through the little park called Venedig (<i>Venice</i>). This is our turnaround spot.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcitODufjdQfGO4GeUXsA8eWtF_MWb_3EzUcfPsp9vQ2YmSPp-OtFeAfsk_IoeqoX169r2tUzSmNNethKD-zxURTpaC2Knac-VFp4AVbQL4DwcU3dBIK8B_lxWhXLJVD2v-GNBzLAotsiI/s1600/Erfurt_GeraTrail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="1075" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcitODufjdQfGO4GeUXsA8eWtF_MWb_3EzUcfPsp9vQ2YmSPp-OtFeAfsk_IoeqoX169r2tUzSmNNethKD-zxURTpaC2Knac-VFp4AVbQL4DwcU3dBIK8B_lxWhXLJVD2v-GNBzLAotsiI/s320/Erfurt_GeraTrail.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Venedig-Park</td></tr>
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To see something a bit different on the way back, take the footbridge to the southern part of the park, on an island in the river. When the trail ends, just continue the way we came in, just to the left of the island trail.<br />
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In a few minutes, you'll be back at the beautiful Krämerbrücke again. Time to stop and enjoy this amazing scene!Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-31957538152609184562019-01-25T11:18:00.001+01:002020-03-23T16:20:59.863+01:00Best Running Routes in BarcelonaBarcelona is one of the most fun cities in Europe, a lively urban mix that fascinates at every turn. It has a real creative feel, and people fill the outdoor restaurants each evening enjoying each other's company over some tapas and a bottle of wine or a beer. You're guaranteed to fall in love on day one. And what better way to get to know some of the most interesting sights than to strap on your running shoes and head off to discover the town on your own two feet? <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-MXANjYX-PFvLDihiT37LOiMpVPnaxc1QNnjU4oSfT4hOn05q5p95HIO-ENHBtuCWjaQubY5rDWmjhKnLcdIEvTVszcup8jxlyk0shx0E0IW7FUP_fC5wJ126PBLF4lfHfESurnesyAkk/s1600/Barcelona_BeachRunner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-MXANjYX-PFvLDihiT37LOiMpVPnaxc1QNnjU4oSfT4hOn05q5p95HIO-ENHBtuCWjaQubY5rDWmjhKnLcdIEvTVszcup8jxlyk0shx0E0IW7FUP_fC5wJ126PBLF4lfHfESurnesyAkk/s320/Barcelona_BeachRunner.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning beach run</td></tr>
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Here are the best running/jogging routes in town...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8fZwFKSfDUOc-HZoI1J9k4ZeOzudY9hWiePlgcXY4FEa7IcL9wy5IIo2a0lWWporMBxQknxssKewyViEaGcD3t96mKPMLQULfpuBjdGcEZjPF3iDBxe40-iHLA7EzyE6r4jczOLImQ48/s1600/Barcelona_ArcDeTriomf.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="1546" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8fZwFKSfDUOc-HZoI1J9k4ZeOzudY9hWiePlgcXY4FEa7IcL9wy5IIo2a0lWWporMBxQknxssKewyViEaGcD3t96mKPMLQULfpuBjdGcEZjPF3iDBxe40-iHLA7EzyE6r4jczOLImQ48/s320/Barcelona_ArcDeTriomf.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Parc de la Ciutadella</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Top Barcelona Running Routes:</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2010/10/barcelona-old-town-spain.html" target="_blank"><b>Old Town</b></a>: The Barrio Gótico (Gothic Quarter) is one of the most fascinating neighborhoods you'll ever see. It's a maze of narrow, curving lanes going back to the Roman days, with some Roman gate-towers and walls sprinkled among the medieval houses. This great route also adds nearby Plaza de Catalunya, the Ramblas and Port Vell at the harbor to round it out into one unforgettable run!<br />
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<a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2013/01/barcelona-montjuic-running-route.html" target="_blank"><b>Montjuïc</b></a>: The Montjuïc Hill, just south of the old town, is like being on another side of the planet. It's covered by parkland, with great views out over the Mediterranean and the city, with an old fort on the peak and the awesome Palau Nacional (now the Catalonian National Art Museum). And we'll start the run at the Plaça d'Espanya, with its Magic Fountain and the old World's Fair buildings. Enjoy this great hill run!<br />
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<a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2014/04/barcelona-beach-running-route.html" target="_blank"><b>Barcelona Beach</b></a>: Barcelona is one of the few great cities of the world with a long stretch of beach right in the city. What had once been a decaying waterside full of old factories and railroad tracks, it's now a lively, beautiful Mediterranean hangout. This run takes you along the whole stretch, past Barceloneta and other great neighborhoods. Don't forget to take time to kick off your shoes and take a dip in the water!<br />
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<a href="https://www.joggingroutes.org/2016/01/barcelona-parc-de-la-ciutadella-running.html" target="_blank"><b>Parc de la Ciutadella</b></a>: This park, close to the beach, isn't terribly big, but it offers a lot of variety in one short run. With fountains, promenades, unique streetlamps, the Catalonian provincial parliament, the city zoo, a lake with lovers rowing in the evenings, and the Barcelona <i>Arc de Triomf</i>. Make sure you visit this great corner of town!Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6394676952612524378.post-33344862108085054902019-01-07T10:12:00.000+01:002019-01-07T10:12:44.269+01:00Funchal Madiera Waterside Running Route<a href="https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2328323131" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for route map</span></span></a> <br />Length 4.8 km (3 miles), terrain: easy, fairly flat, gain 33 meters<br /><br />Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira, is a pleasant place, with a quiet old-town and a long, beautiful waterfront promenade. And there are also lush parks and botanical gardens, the elegant hilltop retreat of Monte, with its viewpoints, gardens and quirky toboggan rides.<br /><br />Finding a good running route is tougher, though, because the town, like the whole island, is so vertical. Steep uphill roads provide the only way up into the surrounding suburbs. And vertical cliffs block access to areas east and west of town along the coast. So, the best route to take is simply one that heads along the waterfront promenade, with a return loop through the old town, for a bit of variety.<br /><br />So, if you're ready, get yourself down to the promenade, at the Praça Do Povo park, right next to the marina, along the Avenida do Mar.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_f1y_5Iqpus4LVtceZtT3yqOCbohNcExu10a6SHcAE5M9rjX0MdAMO81wSNtCF6lp4grGllu8lA22sPJPT5LVATpReD-iXaSms2l8qIpJ-ecuxUhs6yVJBo-xdbOJIU-rijeuZRWET7_u/s1600/Funchal_Promenade.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_f1y_5Iqpus4LVtceZtT3yqOCbohNcExu10a6SHcAE5M9rjX0MdAMO81wSNtCF6lp4grGllu8lA22sPJPT5LVATpReD-iXaSms2l8qIpJ-ecuxUhs6yVJBo-xdbOJIU-rijeuZRWET7_u/s320/Funchal_Promenade.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The promenade: nice hangout!</td></tr>
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You're in the heart of town, with the pretty, relaxed promenade stretching in both directions, with boats bobbing in the harbor and seagulls soaring above. Let's turn eastwards and run with the water to your right side, enjoying the flowers and exotic trees.<br /><br />Shortly, you'll cross the river: actually two rivers meet right here just before they pour into the sea. <br /><br />Next, to the right, you'll see a cement walkway heading diagonally out towards a little green/white lighthouse. If you like lighthouses, like I do, head out there and take a look, with a nice view of the coast and also back towards town.<br /><br />Then continue onwards, passing the bottom station of the <i>Teleferico </i>(gondola lift). It takes people up to Monte above, and also connects to a second lift that continues on to the main botanical garden. <br /><br /><i>NOTE: Make sure you get up to Monte during your visit. It's cooler up there in the summer, and there are also spectacular views, has an old church set in a jungley garden, and it has it's own botanical garden which is at least as good as the official one on the next hill. And Monte is the place where the unique toboggan rides start, sliding down the streets back to town.</i> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYcnOWs8xZh4hFIdc7ONi6jyO9OxXQWM0Ke4484fne5fISJJ2KRPTKgRPseWdiXYkrYNv80n_YexFRnM1JE1FFeqYoIFb7nvVg4J7bMuV7FErUYi4VLqb9v7r2nJg8FLRBTYfDNQ6MCE_/s1600/Funchal_Toboggan.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYcnOWs8xZh4hFIdc7ONi6jyO9OxXQWM0Ke4484fne5fISJJ2KRPTKgRPseWdiXYkrYNv80n_YexFRnM1JE1FFeqYoIFb7nvVg4J7bMuV7FErUYi4VLqb9v7r2nJg8FLRBTYfDNQ6MCE_/s320/Funchal_Toboggan.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toboggans heading down to town</td></tr>
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Now just keep running for the next block until the promenade ends right in front of that old yellow fort straight ahead, the <i>Fortaleza de São Tiago</i>. The 400-year old fortress now houses an art museum, a restaurant and lots of cultural festivals. There are swimming platforms down below the fort.<i> </i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirrqKtzB4jNDAAoY4iNcgX6Y_r5srHF17OVJrZj14ShupVQ0kMyRmpEMugYL0NDVNlSeo4FXmw_0ak2P1lwASK4liZjq0PKFN_O2od9U42K5ySArtG8qDdo5I4qdo0Wj9WAHZs95-p3KfM/s1600/Funchal_Fortaleza.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirrqKtzB4jNDAAoY4iNcgX6Y_r5srHF17OVJrZj14ShupVQ0kMyRmpEMugYL0NDVNlSeo4FXmw_0ak2P1lwASK4liZjq0PKFN_O2od9U42K5ySArtG8qDdo5I4qdo0Wj9WAHZs95-p3KfM/s320/Funchal_Fortaleza.JPG" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading towards the Fortaleza</td></tr>
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<i>NEXT NOTE: If you want to add distance to this short run, just connect to the street to the left and keep running eastwards along Rua de Santa Maria and then Rua Lazareto as they gently head uphill past simple homes and some public viewpoints over the cliffs.</i><br />So now we head back, this time staying a bit inland. When we get to the <i>Teleferico </i>again, turn right and follow the cablecars for a block to Rua de Santa Maria, where we turn left and run westwards for a block on this restaurant-lined lane.<br /><br />Turn right again on another narrow lane, Rua Boa Viagem, and head the one block north to the covered market building. Now just circle the building, but on the north side you might want to step inside the entrance just to see this colorful spot and decide to come back again later. One section of the market is a fish market, the other is mainly spices and vegetables.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXhUO_597qHXqHmcgXoK_ItGy0aekRAf6kg4oVNHnetpgAbgSx1E1t4rJiO9mH0LgMyTNqdrOO_0g0QYuHByQSlgTlBb9UEiFzJKgbZtydZwbfxNNLC3cq0xKaIQBMOo1TNxLIODmqDwe/s1600/Funchal_Market.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXhUO_597qHXqHmcgXoK_ItGy0aekRAf6kg4oVNHnetpgAbgSx1E1t4rJiO9mH0LgMyTNqdrOO_0g0QYuHByQSlgTlBb9UEiFzJKgbZtydZwbfxNNLC3cq0xKaIQBMOo1TNxLIODmqDwe/s320/Funchal_Market.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the market</td></tr>
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After circling the building, head back to the waterfront by running along Rua Brigadeiro Oudinot, next to the river.<br /><br />Now we'll loop through the old-town and take a look at the main sights: after running one block westwards along the promenade, turn right to cross busy Avenida do Mar and run north along Largo dos Varadouros towards that grey-stone archway ahead. That's a reconstruction of the old city gate that once stood there. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgqHOsMLfZ24YBUj3_PO5dukNXm273DkbvZsUAylr1TrHZ5GNN1yKH7mmVD67VwIaVxG3zcmxawiM7NMdwbaa-No1mENhdsD_IBGUz2M1U5UxpSoTEMLvpGaiQhowPycFHRE1XImYH8fX/s1600/Funchal_CityGate.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgqHOsMLfZ24YBUj3_PO5dukNXm273DkbvZsUAylr1TrHZ5GNN1yKH7mmVD67VwIaVxG3zcmxawiM7NMdwbaa-No1mENhdsD_IBGUz2M1U5UxpSoTEMLvpGaiQhowPycFHRE1XImYH8fX/s320/Funchal_CityGate.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The city gate</td></tr>
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Keep running past the gate and you'll come to a quiet square, the Praça Colombo (named after Christopher Columbus), with a few nice cafés. You'll already be able to see the tower of the cathedral off to the left: let's head there next!<br /><br />So at the north end of the square, turn left and run the one block to the back side of the cathedral, with its Gothic arches and ancient stonework. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRLDaguoBRWJoU8P0fQebU1qdN7TAc-VaA_IsRItpLlcBW54Wy894-s03qT_3SGd0YCwqWwmJ1RNUjRB8TA7r8j9qxOPLagr-bJNJOPyBgAbnP-inDdVEHGho5CRPXvNqsid2_mbK6mOW/s1600/Funchal_Cathedral.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1395" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRLDaguoBRWJoU8P0fQebU1qdN7TAc-VaA_IsRItpLlcBW54Wy894-s03qT_3SGd0YCwqWwmJ1RNUjRB8TA7r8j9qxOPLagr-bJNJOPyBgAbnP-inDdVEHGho5CRPXvNqsid2_mbK6mOW/s320/Funchal_Cathedral.JPG" width="279" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cathedral</td></tr>
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Let's run around the building to get to the main entrance, so turn right and run a bit uphill on Rua de João Gago along the east side of the church.<br /><br />You will now come to the main downtown street, Rua do Aljube. Now, let's keep heading west, past the cathedral entrance with its own little square, where the street widens to become a tree-lined promenade through the old-town. The name changes to Avenida Arriaga. Arriaga is where people come to enjoy the evenings, with cafés, restaurants and theaters lining the avenue. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpB0QF2cm0G56R88ZbSQZz4ZmPrxU9SEFcr8ImS-NEQ65G5UmSAFLmyQeUu1uH5SuUqCG3uBlr9SlqamB3BnrYH2EIcXkcNI8d105f-gv8W9Osh3FhoNry1wH-X0p0GpsxA4mAmD9OaPaJ/s1600/Funchal_ZarcoStatue.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpB0QF2cm0G56R88ZbSQZz4ZmPrxU9SEFcr8ImS-NEQ65G5UmSAFLmyQeUu1uH5SuUqCG3uBlr9SlqamB3BnrYH2EIcXkcNI8d105f-gv8W9Osh3FhoNry1wH-X0p0GpsxA4mAmD9OaPaJ/s320/Funchal_ZarcoStatue.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zarco statue</td></tr>
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My favorite spot in town is at the João Gonçalves Zarco statue, who was the first governor of the island. The elegant <i>Grand Café</i>, with its wrap-around balcony is there, as is the impressive old <i>Bank of Portugal</i> building, and the old <i>Palácio De São Lourenço</i> is next door, the city's first fort and government building. The whole area is a lively, elegant hangout. It's a great place to relax and do some people-watching later on.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BXX3xRvNx8-lCH3jlywqNvHwHdrMIMRYVqBRfhY0l6bz3d7cafcj6feu0XPKSBOMCg3yxk3YbjCPriGw8ZgTZvKN_QiHvfbSIsOECCMgVxJbtKC5S4sHrk7CnT3ZO0H9NDPrhCS6wN3H/s1600/Funchal_AvenidaArriagaCafes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1549" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BXX3xRvNx8-lCH3jlywqNvHwHdrMIMRYVqBRfhY0l6bz3d7cafcj6feu0XPKSBOMCg3yxk3YbjCPriGw8ZgTZvKN_QiHvfbSIsOECCMgVxJbtKC5S4sHrk7CnT3ZO0H9NDPrhCS6wN3H/s320/Funchal_AvenidaArriagaCafes.JPG" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Ritz, with its blue-white tiles</td></tr>
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Continuing westwards, you pass the blue-tile <i>azulejo </i>walls of the <i>Ritz </i>restaurant, and there is a really cool park across the street. The<i> Municipal Park</i> occupies the grounds of a former abbey, and the landscaping is lush and almost jungle-like. Make sure you loop through it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7dQcpnSt6iA7Nax0-op0Zr1-PRuwW3Lcp59cKNBA11eYC0j9JcxID6FQDbpwgFTXKsIiSTzQRkrXQSfs2wBjO10NjbGrkyIJ12_4nHAPjRa3ZJ-uuwKfTm6Ua3wjAOBcFMrGOOja-iyZx/s1600/Funchal_JardimMunicipal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7dQcpnSt6iA7Nax0-op0Zr1-PRuwW3Lcp59cKNBA11eYC0j9JcxID6FQDbpwgFTXKsIiSTzQRkrXQSfs2wBjO10NjbGrkyIJ12_4nHAPjRa3ZJ-uuwKfTm6Ua3wjAOBcFMrGOOja-iyZx/s320/Funchal_JardimMunicipal.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the Jardim Municipal</td></tr>
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The main theater, <i>Baltazar Dias</i>, comes next, on the left, and then you keep running another block until you come to the traffic circle with the fountain. Here, we'll head uphill into that park on the other side, the <i>Parque de Santa Catarina</i>. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOh6kOFYvGSAjSywVTXyrqv-3C5o7-ojdOPpFH4r3NI0QI8GRh9CbaZXhY8EfFfsWRKr8-WC0C0DWy7FgmBCUFo9qqviYcrVYCyq5cJIr8ulH-YkAmaN8RD3-BSCIBDp414D6Ts-pJVxd/s1600/Funchal_ParqueSantaCatarinaFountain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOh6kOFYvGSAjSywVTXyrqv-3C5o7-ojdOPpFH4r3NI0QI8GRh9CbaZXhY8EfFfsWRKr8-WC0C0DWy7FgmBCUFo9qqviYcrVYCyq5cJIr8ulH-YkAmaN8RD3-BSCIBDp414D6Ts-pJVxd/s320/Funchal_ParqueSantaCatarinaFountain.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Santa Catarina</td></tr>
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Keep left and follow the way uphill past the 300-year-old baroque chapel. There are a few great lookouts over the harbor below and across the whole town from up here, including the cruise-ship harbor directly below. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQoY_UI7l4hSFbo1CrZWVRk0IsNjv9tdOJk4epm1q8vMYFK2qWWkdiRyBum3dVgU75UwSKI2xV5YgcBNIGV5jM_F0SKTT94r9HSjg0mBqoF8bAsiUkn8lyr-3z5kvrnWZeyQP_HElsGvTR/s1600/Funchal_ParqueSantaCatarinaView.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQoY_UI7l4hSFbo1CrZWVRk0IsNjv9tdOJk4epm1q8vMYFK2qWWkdiRyBum3dVgU75UwSKI2xV5YgcBNIGV5jM_F0SKTT94r9HSjg0mBqoF8bAsiUkn8lyr-3z5kvrnWZeyQP_HElsGvTR/s320/Funchal_ParqueSantaCatarinaView.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great views from the park!</td></tr>
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The park ends soon at a fence that guards the old pink government mansion above. Circle the pond and then head down the steps towards the cruise ship terminal below. There is a pedestrian crossing right there.<br /><br />You can run under the building housing the <i>C7 Museum</i> (honoring hometown hero, football star Cristiano Ronaldo) and continue to the waterside. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4Jeov3BTcnsunGlPLEjrKUKjYmHqNuqfNrCmqatEUE4dg83kFKJx1sxCvzbqUFn7MYoYNkVHfQ5eGfUqjQWdTtQPQpGTok7k9-VUPlBoqbNiljZKY5A6apU1V2XnOmDKR9h9Jmzd9ep6/s1600/Funchal_Ronaldo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4Jeov3BTcnsunGlPLEjrKUKjYmHqNuqfNrCmqatEUE4dg83kFKJx1sxCvzbqUFn7MYoYNkVHfQ5eGfUqjQWdTtQPQpGTok7k9-VUPlBoqbNiljZKY5A6apU1V2XnOmDKR9h9Jmzd9ep6/s320/Funchal_Ronaldo.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Ronaldo statue at the C7 Museum</td></tr>
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There are usually ships docked up here, sometimes as many as eight of these impressive giants at a time!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_Xk5QyWl0L4I4qYDbIjFZh63rXie1nP6i4H9JsYLyWe5UXuXPPlqpywrBMXNKRzjtX_kOeIwquLNl6Qu5ik4w-piZXh0sFy72ZncN2E0mcgcwEPOKlmnUc1AEvYFDqaPmgy01pLZ9qDk/s1600/Funchal_CruiseShip.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1470" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_Xk5QyWl0L4I4qYDbIjFZh63rXie1nP6i4H9JsYLyWe5UXuXPPlqpywrBMXNKRzjtX_kOeIwquLNl6Qu5ik4w-piZXh0sFy72ZncN2E0mcgcwEPOKlmnUc1AEvYFDqaPmgy01pLZ9qDk/s320/Funchal_CruiseShip.JPG" width="294" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the cruise-ship harbor</td></tr>
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Now just turn left and head back to the starting point along the promenade, a few blocks to the east. Funchal is such a beautiful place!Keith Hauserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06482490193289114095noreply@blogger.com1