The Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu Creek State Park are mainstays on rotation in my running schedule. The terrain includes a little of everything, and is great training for nearly any goal an endurance runner has in mind.

I’ve run R2 from South Kaibab, to the Colorado River, and up to Bright Angel. An unforgettable experience, this is now one of my favorite places. My near future goals include running R3.

Don’t let this area’s proximity to civilization fool you- it offers a trove of challenging adventures in the Santa Monica Mountains with sweeping vista views of meadows, valleys, and the Pacific Ocean.

Located in the Central Oregon high desert and sitting around 3,000 feet in elevation, this area is characterized by deep river canyons, 30-million-year-old compressed volcanic ash rock outcroppings, and miles of trails.

Pine-needle covered trails intertwined with segments of meadow, the DRT is a trail-runners dream. I’ve run both the upper and lower sections of the DRT during all four seasons of the year. Don’t forget the micro-spikes in the winter!

This area is very diverse, including dry desert areas with sparse vegetation, plus others that are ruggedly beautiful. The trails are lined with an abundance of desert flora, and are extremely rocky and filled with long, remote segments that both climb and descend, challenging even the most seasoned runners.

Situated above Simi Valley, this prehistoric-feeling area is exactly as the name implies- rocky! Combine that with vertical gain, heat and very little cover and you’ve got yourself a demanding run. One of the races I direct is held here.

Located about 45 miles east of San Diego, the mix of Oak and Pine Forests with large boulders amongst the demanding Laguna Mountains will have you climbing 4,000+ feet in a single climb before you know it.

Part of the Cleveland National Forest, this dry region is dotted with mixed forests, scrub, and challenging trails that wind around to breathtaking vistas. There are several access points to explore the area and I ran here often when I lived nearby.

Breathtaking ocean and mountain views are standard here. The frequent rains keep the surrounding forests lush and the trails soft (and muddy)! It’s fun to run from the mountains down onto the beach all in one run.

Found within the heart of one of the few California Coastal wilderness areas, you’ll find undisturbed old-growth chaparral, riparian woodlands, trickling creeks, shallow ponds, and rugged, rocky outcroppings. Much of this area is fairly remote, so running extra prepared is a must.

I have run many trails in the front country here, so it would be hard to list a specific area. Fall and Springtime are my favorites, however there’s great options year-round. Constant gain/loss keep things interesting and the dramatic views are worth the effort.