Setting out for my morning run. The problem with the routes in my neighborhood is, that unless I am willing to run on the road, there is a lot of up or down involved. Nothing just easy rolling or flat.
In my search for a fairly easy 45-60 min run I thought of doing a new combination of trails on an out-and-back course. Starting downhill on the Mosquito Creek Trails I planned heading west on Bowser and then somehow making my way back on neighborhood roads. However, when veering west at the bottom of Mosquito Creek, I thought of investigating the trails along MacKay Creek instead. To connect both green ways only means one block on a residential road and cutting through a parking lot.
Only problem was that the only time I ventured along MacKay Creek when we first moved here more than 5 years ago, I got utterly lost. Now, we are talking about an urban park, limited by a highway to the north, a major thoroughfare in the south and residential neighborhoods to the east and west. 5 years ago, I ended up on tiny trails in thick underbrush. I was trying to find an exit to the north, where there are two pedestrian crossings over/under the Highway. Not only did I never find these crossings, I had to loop all the way back and find a different way home. I have not returned to these trails since.
Instead of staying east of the creek, I decided this time to check out the west side. I assumed, that the small trail I was following, would connect with a residential road. To my surprise, I noticed an even smaller trail forking off to the right, winding right along the creek. This must be were the Capilano Canyon Night Run leads the competitive group. The trail was quite technical with lots of slippery roots and makeshift bridges over little tributaries. Huge mud puddles made for wet feet and very dirty shoes. After about 10 min, the trail led me to a little concrete bridge and an intersection. Left, I guessed, would bring me to Pemberton Heights. A right turn up a steep hill brought me to the Lucas Centre, from where I crossed back into the Mosquito Creek trails, guiding me back home.
Total running time was 45min including a few dead end and stops to decide which way to go. Perfect little mid week run.
