3 Tips for Winter Running
With snow finally settling in and colder temperatures becoming the norm, winter running season has officially arrived in Park City! While it can be tempting to retreat indoors, this time of year offers crisp mountain air, quieter trails, and snow-covered landscapes. At Rendezvous Run, we believe that with a few adjustments, this can be your favorite time of the year to run. Here are our top 3 tips for embracing winter running:
- Layer Smart and Start Cold
The most common winter running mistake is dressing for the walk out the door instead of the run itself. Aim to feel slightly cold when you step outside. You’ll warm up quickly once you’re moving, and starting cool helps prevent overheating on climbs or longer efforts. Begin with a moisture-wicking base layer and add a vest to keep your core warm. Hats, gloves, and neck gaiters keep your extremities warm and are easy to stash if conditions change. - Don’t Skip the Safety Essentials
Short winter days and variable conditions make safety a priority. A headlamp or waist light helps you see and be seen during dark mornings or evenings, especially on plowed paths or shared roads. Trail shoes, spikes, or traction devices give you confident footing on snowy trails or icy paths. If you’re running near traffic, reflective details or lights are essential when visibility is limited. - Run With Friends
Cold mornings are easier when someone’s waiting for you. Running with friends adds accountability, motivation, and safety, making it far more likely you’ll stick with winter miles. This is a great time of year to sign up for a spring or summer race to give yourself something to work towards.
Looking for people to run with this winter? Check our website for weekly run club times (we meet rain, snow, or sunshine) and a roundup of other local group runs to help you find your Park City winter running crew.
