frequently asked questions

How fast do I need to be to run with hhrg?

If you can jog for an hour straight on flat pavement, you will be fine on our Saturday runs. It’s not so much about speed - we’re social, and trail running is technical and there are always a few of us walking up steeper hills. So it’s more about the ability to push and pace yourself sustainably for an hour than it is about speed.

What do I bring on HHRG Runs?

You do not need to bring anything special for the shorter runs in good weather. Just dress like you would for an hour long road run. However, it is helpful to have shoes with good tread and good support, or trail running shoes.

For wet and/or cold weather, bring warm layers and a waterproof shell. But if it is rainy or snowy, expect to get wet and muddy, and bring a towel and change of clothes, socks/shoes and so on with you.

For longer runs, bring hydration and snacks in a running pack or in pockets.

It is also good to have a pack or pocket for keys and valuables.

You don’t need a map unless you want to learn the trails; we’ll take care of you.

What if I want to carpool?

Yes! Please get on our Facebook page to arrange or offer a ride. It doesn’t always work out but we love it when it does. We’ve had some women start long term carpooling relationships. Sometimes it helps to meet someone on the trail who’s from your neighborhood and buddy up then.

Who started hhrg?

A woman named Megan grew up backpacking as a kid and started running trails in 1985, when she was 13. Trail running for her is the best of team sports and dirt sports, with the most freedom, the best views, and the best physical and mental benefits, and the best people. She started this group in 2007 as Charlotte’s Angels, a group of four women, one of them actually named Charlotte. HHRG was the 2011 reboot of Charlotte’s Angels.

How is trail running different than road running?

Trail running is easier on your feet and joints than running on pavement. It can be harder on all your little muscles because you’re maneuvering around roots, rocks, and turns. But, because you’re maneuvering, your various muscles get breaks, it can be easier to run farther and easier on your body when running trails.

Trail running is easier on the mind for the short attention span since often you can’t see more than a few hundred feet in front of you, so there’s always another view up ahead. And, there’s no traffic, no stoplights, and so on.

Trail running is also a great way to get deeper into the woods with minimal equipment. This counts both for local parks and bigger supported and unsupported adventures.

How ARE trail SHOES different than road SHOES?

Trail running shoes tend to have more protection in the sole (for rocks) and more tread for gripping mud or loose dirt. But don’t feel you need trail shoes to run with us. If you run trails a lot, you may find yourself considering switching to trail shoes. We highly recommend going to a local trail running shoe store for fit, shoe type, and advice.

why should I run trails?

There are so many reasons, but here are our big ones. Trail running is a great way to get into the woods, with minimum equipment. You don’t even need trail shoes, they are just nice to have. It is a great workout. With us, it’s a social outing with networking potential, or just a chance to be with other women running trails as company. For busy women, especially moms, it is an opportunity to relearn how give yourself permission to take care of yourself, too. All at the same time.