How
to Use this Guide
1.
First, read the sections on Preparation,
Safety and the Explanation of
Symbols. The Explanation of
Symbols will help you interpret the directions and maps.
2.
There are three distinct types
of information resources provided by this guide:
$ Charts
included show calculations of distance, time, running pace, and conversions
between standard and metric measurements.
$ The section titled Just
the Trails, shows detailed measurements of major trails and trail overview
maps. The tables
will help you measure and make your own routes.
$ Routes
section contains the bulk of the information provided, in a book format.
Different trails and roads are combined to form out-and-back, loop, and
lollipop routes. Each route has accompanying descriptions, directions and
maps.
3.
Each chapter of the Routes section represents a geographic zone.
All routes in a chapter start and finish from the same place.
Select a zone you=re
interested in, then read that chapter to find out more.
Inside each chapter are each of the following sections:
| General
Description |
Information
about the starting point or park is provided here. Between 1 to 6 routes are in each chapter/zone.
Also provided in general description is information relevant to
all routes in the chapter, historical significance of the area and
other orientation information. |
| Getting
There |
How to drive or
take the Metro
system to the starting point. |
| Area
Routes |
Narrative descriptions of routes highlighting unusual attractions to be
seen, descriptions of the terrain to be covered (i.e...wooded, hilly;
paved or unpaved trails, etc...), further historical significance
unique to the route, clarifications of directions that may otherwise
be difficult to follow, modes of travel allowed (i.e. appropriate for
in-line skating or bicycling is not allowed), hazards and animal
wildlife to be seen. Mileage and route difficulty ratings are provided here also.
Ratings were subjectively assigned.
All routes are from 1-15 miles in length. |
| Nearby
and Connecting Zones |
In this section, other adjacent
geographic zones are listed by the titles of other the chapters.
The routes in the other zones either connect to routes
described in the chapter being read, or are nearby.
So, if you enjoy routes in one area, you can find and explore
other places that are nearby or that are just further down the trail.
The entire body of routes in the guide thus creates a vast
network of trails across and around Washington D.C. |
| What
to do Before or Afterward |
In this section nearby and mostly
informal places for finding food or drink are provided.
Also, nearby attractions for Entertainment and Edification are
listed. Entertainment
includes local concerts halls, amusement parks, pools, fairs and farmer=s markets. Examples
of places for Edification include museums, historical locations,
formal gardens and outdoor displays.
Where possible, phone numbers are provided. |
| Directions |
Directions for each route are listed to fit on a single page (with one
exception). It is
anticipated that you might take this page and its corresponding map
with you when running an unfamiliar route for the first time.
At the top of the page is the route title given with distance
and difficulty rating. Most
routes have one or more options included that either shorten or extend
the basic route. Directions
are given in the form of sequential left (L) and right (R) turns at
described distancesBsee
Explanation of Symbols.
Distances are listed in increments of 0.05 miles but have
mostly been measured to within 0.01 miles or even to the foot.
Queues are given not only at each turn but at other points of
significance such as water stops. |
| Maps |
Topographic route maps are generally given one route to a page. The title of the route is at the top of the page.
Most maps were created with Topo!
software and are based on U.S. Geological 1:24000 series surveys but
have been enlarged or contracted for readability on a 8.5 x 11 printed
page. The Start/Finish is
labeled. Routes along
with options are marked with a heavy bold line.
Arrows show the direction of travel.
Each mile mark is labeled.
A scale is on the bottom of each map; given in miles.
All maps are oriented with north at the top of the page. |
4.
Use your past experience, knowledge of what kind of shape you are in, and
the ratings of each route to pick one that=s
appropriate for you.
|