My favorite runs: Power Hour

A rugged and tough loop for challenging days

What makes a great running loop? There are as many different answers to that question as there types of loops. 

They could be the kind of route you run over and over again, as familiar and comfortable as the warm blanket on your couch in winter. Or they could be something you save for special occasions when you need a change of pace and a kick in the butt. 

In my running practice, I have dozens of loops for different kinds of outings and I love them all in their own way. For me, what defines a truly great running loop is degree of difficulty, variety of terrain, and a few optional detours to add some spice.  

Within the Blue Hills Reservation where I do most of my long runs, one route stands out among the others. It’s a 5-mile loop with around 1,000 feet of climbing and descent on trails ranging from completely runnable (i.e. service roads) to seriously technical with roots, rocks, and incline grades over 30 percent. 

I call this loop, “Power Hour” because that’s how long it takes to complete, and that’s what you need to get through it in one piece. It’s not for the untrained or the faint of heart, but it is rewarding. Every time I knock out a Power Hour I learn something new about myself and the environment where I run.