Jesse first introduced trail running to me as a way to build running strength while I was training for my first marathon. Whether or not he’ll admit it, he is an amazing trail runner (and runner in general), capable of running up the steepest hills imaginable with a happy grin on his face.

Armed with this Salomon hydration pack I bought for his 28th birthday, we set out to find a trail appropriate for celebrating his day. We were open to the idea of straying from our Marin County standard and trying a new trail, pursuing our Bay Area trail book for ideas. We found the fire trails and single-track of Russian Ridge Open Space to be appealing – the book labeled it as “moderate” and promised gorgeous 360-degree views of the bay from its perch near Skyline Boulevard in Redwood City.

We set out to run around 9-10 miles but ended it up cutting it a little short as our stomachs were giving us trouble. As it turns out, we left at the perfect time – the fog was rolling  in over the hills as we descended towards the freeway. Next time we go, we’ll be able to tack on up to another five miles perhaps; connector trails extend in multiple directions. I think Jesse enjoyed his birthday trail run.