Perhaps it is the rhythm of running that is the appeal. That rhythm has pushed Phil Gregory to run nearly every day of his life for the past 25 years.
Today, the 41-year-old father and physical therapist is part of a growing group of runners who find solace, community, and peace in running on the vast network of trails that weave throughout the Carolinas.
Trail running does not have a set definition but involves a jaunt on a formal and sometimes informal trail. While paved paths often fit the bill, many, including Gregory, prefer the lesser-hewn terrain of unpaved spaces.
On weekday mornings, various groups of men and women of all ages can be spotted jogging together throughout the city. But when the weekend comes, many take to local trails. Paris Mountain is a favorite spot, as is Dupont State Recreational Forest.
For many runners, early morning workouts are the key to consistency—wait too long and the duties of the day take over. Gregory likens his hobby of running to an anchor that influences other parts of his life. He says that when you must get up early for a 10-miler, you make sure you are in bed early the night before, you begin to fuel your body to feel good, and you learn to be efficient with your time.
“It’s get up, have coffee, go for a run, and then the chaos of the day can take over, but there is order because I’ve gotten that in,” he says with a grin. “Getting that box checked every day means the rest of the day is kind of ordered as well.”
To outsiders, it may seem questionable to rise before dawn, no matter the weather, to fit in a run that can be 6 to 19 miles depending on race schedules. But to those who love it, trail running brings them a level of peace that few other things in life can.
David Barton was always active, but the father of two really found running five years ago when he was approaching 30. Since that time, Barton estimates he runs almost every day of the week. He changes it up, running on grass, paved paths, and unpaved trails. And while he often runs with others, he also prizes his solo runs. Each one brings something unique that balances him, mind, body and soul.
On trails, there is freedom in the fact that no two runs are exactly the same.
“It’s a great way to unplug,” Barton says. “That is really important for me mentally, to be out in the woods, to just see deer, or an owl, or a woodcock hiding in the leaf litter.”
A Chance to Connect while Disconnecting
If you ask Jim Bickelhaupt what drew him to trail running so many years ago, the 55-year-old will say it is the chance to feel rooted in the world—being able to connect with his fellow runners but also to connect with nature. While Bickelhaupt has run more miles in his life than he could ever compute, he can count on two hands the number of times those runs have been inside.
“It’s probably one of the most welcoming communities,” Bickelhaupt says. “Everybody that shows up wants to do a little bit better for themselves each day. In the trail running community, I’ve made my best friends of my whole life.”
When you follow a routine, rising at the same hour each day, hitting the trail or road at the same time, running the same routes, you start to notice details: the way the light hits the leaves, the smells that shift with the season, the animals that appear, the calls of birds.
“I don’t think we run for the race performance,” Barton says. “I would still run every day if I could never race again. So, it’s less about performance and more about exploring. Time by yourself to think or with friends to talk. Time outside to unplug.”
Trail Running Beginners Guide
While Gregory, Barton, and Bickelhaupt are long-time runners, they say anyone can try trail running. It starts with the right trail. They recommend Conestee Nature Preserve or Paris Mountain State Park to those looking for the beauty of nature and trails that are digestible for beginners.
For runners looking for more of a challenge, Dupont State Recreational Forest and the North Carolina Arboretum offer extensive trails systems. However, beginners should familiarize themselves with trails and maps ahead of time and carry a map with them.
Since phones don’t always have service in remote areas, it is imperative to start small until you are familiar with an area.
It’s wise to explore more complex trails with a seasoned trail runner first.
Looking for a way to connect with other runners? Check out Greenville Track Club (Greenville Track Club – News) or the Upstate Running Club (Upstate Running Club).
