Sport Today

does anyone know of a book or website that lists
good runs (10-18 miles) in or around the sf bay
area?

i've been making up some of my own and guesing at
distance, but would like somthing more formal to
guide me.

thnx

Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/
Before you buy.

There was one I saw back in the late 70s.
However their chapters about the Stanford area were way off
in time and distances.  I don't think the authors actually ran it.

Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/
Before you buy.

If you browse the bigger bookstores I'm sure you'll find some good guides.
One book that I've used quite alot is "55 1/2 Running Trails of the San
Francisco Bay Area" written by Tony Burke. This is an excellent book with
interesting commentary, detailed trail maps and driving directions. The runs
are fairly evenly split between the local counties and most are in parks.
Now and then I pick a run I've never done before when I get tired of my
standard routes. The only drawback is that it was published in 1987- meaning
that a few things may have changed since then - but this has not been too
much of a problem. An excellent guide.

Another good book that comes to mind is Barry Spitz's "Tamalpais Trails"
which tells you all you want to know about the trails near the mountain.

I don't know where in the Bay Area you live but 2 of my favorites long runs
are:

-The Dipsea Trail starting in Mill Valley and going out to Stinson Beach-
The trail is 7.1 miles each way meaning 14.2 grueling but absolutely
gorgeous miles. Do this when you want hills in your run.

-Crystal Springs Trail in San Mateo- a paved trail for bikes and pedestrians
that has mile markers, water fountains and bathrooms along the way and nice
scenery. The trial is six miles long each way and with the mile markers you
can be sure of doing exactly the distance you want. I use this when marathon
training when I'm increasing my long run each week from 12 to 14 to 16,
etc... Do this when you want a mostly flat run.

Hope this helps and good luck.
John W