Plenty Gorge Parklands Trail Run

Hey everyone, 

I have planned a social trail run at my favourite spot to run in Melbourne - Plenty Gorge Parklands. This trip is part of the process for myself to become a trail running leader. Charlotte will be joining us on this trip as the supervising leader, however if you have any questions please contact me (see contact details above)!

About the run:

We will be running at the Yellow Gum area of the Plenty Gorge Parklands. The route I have chosen is approximately 6.5 km with 190 m of elevation gain, and we will be running on a mix of fire trails and shared mountain bike/walking trails. The tracks have rocks, tree roots and can be muddy after rain, so stable running shoes are recommended.

Everyone will have the option of running either one or two loops:

• One loop: 6.5 km, ~ 190 m elevation gain
• Two loops: 13 km, ~ 380 m elevation gain

Here is a link to the On The Go map: https://onthegomap.com/?route=019e050f-22a1-7c5e-9a8f-29a438c802f5&context=share 

This is a social trail run and as such we will be running as a group at a comfortable conversational pace. There is no set pace but the aim is to stick together and have a good time!

Some running experience is required for this trip, and it has been labelled as intermediate. If you are comfortable running 6.5 km or more without stopping you are welcome to join us. Please keep in mind that this route has more hills than your standard neighbourhood run, so will feel more challenging.

The Plan:

• Meet at the MUMC clubrooms at 7:45 am, ready to leave at 8 am sharp.
• Drive to Blue Lake Plenty Gorge car park (~40 mins depending on traffic).
• Everyone can choose to run either one or two loops. 
• For those who choose to run one loop: the yellow gum recreation area has picnic tables to hang out at and enjoy a snack while waiting for the rest to run a second loop.
• We should be back at the clubrooms around midday and in time for lunch, however I would recommend bringing some snacks to refuel after the run. :))

Important info:

• Make sure you have a decent breakfast before the run! 
• Bring warm clothes + snacks for after the run, these can be left in the car.
• There is no water along the route, so either carry your own or leave a water bottle at the car and we can stop for a drink after the first lap.
• You may wish to bring fuel on the run (e.g. lollies/gels) if you are planning to do 13 km. 
• I will be carrying a first aid kit, snake bandage and some extra lollies.
• Car fuel costs will be split amongst participants.

Final trip numbers will depend on car availability.

The trip meeting will be Tuesday the 26th of May, at 7pm (after the general meeting). You must come to this meeting if you wish to join us on this trip, as I will be going through safety and other important information.