Do I Really Live Here?

As soon as my clock read 5:00 yesterday, I jumped up from my desk and bolted from my cubicle to meet Ang for a run.  She works up near Torrey Pines, which most of you know is my favorite place in all of San Diego.  I was feeling kind of hungry and crabby and wasn't sure I'd have a good run but I sucked it up because we were on a time crunch.  We had tickets to see Death Cab for Cutie at 8:00. 

I threw on my super cool T7s and we we hit the trails.   

Remember this 'Rave Run' in

Runner's World awhile back??

That would be Torrey Pines... where we are lucky enough to run.

Another RW photo

Although I started my run crabby and hungry and slightly dehydrated, all of those things seemed to dissipate as soon as we reached the trails.  The trail felt so soft beneath my feet as we wound left and right, making this run anything but boring.  The ocean came into view, and as always, I was astonished by its beauty.  It never gets old.  I still smile every time I see it.  I lived for so long without it and now I wonder how I did!

It's easy to forget how far I've come.  Running has taken on a whole new meaning since moving to San Diego.  In Chicago I ran in one of two places: the lakefront path or the treadmill.  The lakefront path was nice enough, but in the winter it was brutally cold and in the summer I had to maneuver through the thousands of Chicago runners. 

Now, the possibilities are endless.  I can run along the ocean, the bay, the harbor, in the canyon, through my neighborhood trails, Balboa Park, and the list goes on. I am living the runner's dream!  Yes, I just purchased a treadmill, but I will never stop savoring San Diego and its bountiful beauty. 

I created a short list of some of my favorite places to run.

5 Fabulous Places to Run in San Diego:

#1: Torrey Pines

I've already expressed my love for these trails numerous times.

Picture perfect, soft surface, winding trails. 

#2: Highway 101 through Encinitas, Solana Beach, and Del Mar

This route is popular among cyclists as well as those training for races and walks.

#3: Balboa Park Trails

There are numerous trails running alongside Balboa Park in all directions.  Some paths are shaded with enormous trees while others (like the one pictured above) are open to sunlight with well manicured gardens.

Photo Credit: Stephane D'Alu 

#4: Los Penaquitos Canyon Preserve

A 6 mile trail one-direction where you'll pass horses, mountain bikers and fellow runners.  Challenging but incredibly peaceful and quiet.

#5: Mission Bay & Mission Beach

I only recommend this to people that can handle crowds.  The bay side is calmer and less crowded, however, the ocean side of this path is full of beach goers.  It's great for people-watching with clear ocean views.  It's also ideal for an evening run to watch the sunset.