The San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park is 7,000 acres of Florida wilderness with sink holes, pine grove and hills, including some tough terrain and wildlife. Runners can enjoy some 18 miles of trails, and most if it is in the shade. Open from 8 a.m. to sundown, the preserve is located northwest of Gainesville on Millhopper Road just east of the I-75 overpass. It’s $4 to park…and remember to bring bug repellant!
Side bar: San Felasco also offers hiking, bike riding and equestrian trails.
Stadium
“Running Stadiums” is the pet name for working out at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. The home of the Gators is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day and offers a great cardio workout. Some start by running the stairs then move on to the bleachers on the east and west sides of the stadium.
Sidebar: The Florida Track Club meets every Tuesday at 5 p.m. at gate 4 for ‘Stadium Stompers.’
Fit2Run
Fit2Run located in the Oaks Mall organizes a weekly Wednesday night run. Runners mingle and hydrate then head out around 6:30 p.m. to run the hidden trails and meet back at Ruby Tuesday for a beer.
Mud Runs
Mud Runs pop up when the weather turns warm and offer a whole day of fun. This isn’t a workout; it’s why you work out. A 5K run with mud pits, towering obstacles and climbing and crossing challenges are all designed to put you in touch with your inner Lara Croft.
Useful websites
http://www.floridatrackclub.org/