Running Around

So call me crazy, but I LOVE to run. Running has been a passion of mine for quite a while and it is something that, despite my busy and hectic schedule, I try to keep up with most days of the week. Before coming to Chapman, I was really worried about the lack of hills and trails and off road running as that is what I was used to back home. I thought that I would be forced to run the streets of Orange and be bothered by stoplights and other such nuisances. After running with the Cross Country team here at Chapman starting my freshman year, I was stoked to find that there are many places nearby to enjoy awesome trails and beautiful scenery all while getting some good mileage in. Just up the street (about a 5-10 minute drive) is Irvine Park and Peter’s Canyon Park, both great places frequented by runners, bikers, hikers, and horseback riders. There is varying terrain including flatland as well as some gnarly hills. A place I have more recently discovered that has become a favorite is the Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna. It is about a 20-25 minute drive from campus, but definitely worth it. There are miles and miles of trails that go up hills and down through valleys, there is even a trail that takes you from the trailhead all the way down to the beach (about 4.5 miles). The views are amazing (see the picture!) and it makes for an awesome Saturday morning. So if you love running like I do, get excited for the awesome places you will have to explore!

- Anthony