Be Prepared

For the newcomer, running on trails requires some adjustments--this is not a matter of plodding mindlessly around the block.

“It might take a little while to get used to it,” says Jim Pellon, one of trail running’s premier performers. “You’re probably not going to run as fast at first. If you’re not used to running on trails, it might be kind of scary because you’re worried about twisting your ankle or slipping. But once you get used to it, I think it’s much more relaxing to be on the trails.”

A few off-road pointers:

* Run up steep hills with short, choppy steps, using your arms to help drive you. Run erect, don’t lean into the hill too much.

* Until you get comfortable enough to bomb downhill, negotiate steep descents by “tricycling”--taking short, fast steps helps you stay where you belong, namely on your feet.

* Avoid running through thick brush. Ventura County has more than its share of rattlesnakes. “Tons of rattlers,” says longtime trail local Ed Wehan. “Rattlers all over the place.” Plus, running over uneven ground when you can’t see your feet is asking for twisted ankles and worse.

* Finally, enjoy. “The most important thing is to learn to relax,” Pellon says.

Off-Road Venues

Ventura County is home to some of the most spectacular off-road-running venues anywhere.

“Just a short trip and you can be out there in the guts of nature,” says Fred Nagelschmidt, who has trod county trails for more than 20 years. “We’ve got some incredible places to run.”

Understand that when Nagelschmidt says “incredible,” he isn’t just talking esoterically. County trails offer their share of natural beauty, plus the sort of nosebleed climbs and mountain goat ascents that cause ultra-runners to brim with glee.

Here are two of Nagelschmidt’s favorite runs, suitable for experienced runners who are new to trails:

SYCAMORE CANYON: Start at the Sycamore Campground off Pacific Coast Highway just south of Mugu Rock. Follow the Big Sycamore Canyon Trail for half a mile, turn right into Serrano Canyon, continue on to Old Boney Road to the Old Cabin site. Here you will find the chimney and remains of an old cabin. Continue down the trail to the main Sycamore Trail, then back to the starting point. Miles: 18.

LA JOLLA CANYON LOOP: Start at the La Jolla Canyon campground off Pacific Coast Highway, also just south of Mugu Rock. At the end of the parking lot, the Ray Miller Trail takes you to the Overlook Trail; turn right, continue to the Sycamore Canyon Trail. Turn left up that trail to the Serrano Trail. Follow that to the Old Cabin Site trail, then back to the main Sycamore Canyon Trail. About a mile later turn right on an asphalt road, which takes you to the Ranch Center. Turn left and continue for about two miles where the trail splits. Take the right turn up a steep hill to another junction. Turn right, down a moderate hill and take the first left. This section takes you through some open areas, by a small pond, down some narrow switchback trails, past a small waterfall and back to the parking lot. Miles: 22.