There are so many options for trail running in the desert. Some of these trails can be more adventurous than others. From Dirt roads to off trail running, here is a look at the 5 most common types of trails you’ll find in the desert, ranked from the least adventurous to the most adventurous!

5. Dirt Roads.

Countless country songs have been written about these “trails”. Don’t get me wrong. If I’m out driving I love a good dirt road and country song. However, as far as trail running goes, to me dirt roads are a bit like the country version of pavement. And I don’t do pavement.

That being said, there are also pros to running on dirt roads, especially if you’re new to trail running. You still get to see the beauty of the desert with the added bonus of not having to leave the beaten path. There will be less rocks and other obstacles to get in your way. The hills and inclines will usually be less pronounced. (And inclines on the trails are not like running them on pavement!)

4. Off-Road Vehicle Trails

Off road vehicle trails are slightly more adventurous than dirt roads. While these trails can be a lot of fun, there are places on them that are covered in “moon dust.” This is the powder-like dirt that is caused by 4-wheelers digging into the road. Stepping in moon dust is like the desert version of stepping in a puddle, only you don’t get your feet wet. However, it is slippery, making running through it difficult and it gets everywhere. You can often find moon dust at acceleration points such as at the bottom of a hill or just before a jump.

For the most part, off road vehicle trails are alot of fun. Sometimes they can go on for miles, and the inclines are great! Just make sure you don’t have headphones in or otherwise aren’t playing your music too loud. You want to make sure that you can hear the ATV that is coming up on you quickly or is right around the corner!

3. Hiking Trails.

Hiking trails are the holy grail of trail runners everywhere. They are usually well maintained and in some places such as parks can be heavily trafficked. And the scenery is usually amazing. There is a reason that they pick these locations for hiking trails!

2. Deer Paths.

If it’s good enough for a deer, its good enough for a trail runner! Deer paths are often found between places between where a deer or other wild animal finds shelter and food or water.

These paths are amazing to run on and often take you far off the beaten path. You can find some of the most amazing canyons, springs and creeks when you follow a deer path. It may also cross another deer path. But be prepared for it to end. It might end in a mile, or it might end in 10 miles. But when it does end, you’ll have to choose between turning back or moving forward, which brings us to the most adventurous and my number one favorite type of trail….

1. No Trail.

Sometimes the trail just doesn’t lead to where you want to go. And that’s ok! Whether it’s running across rocks through a creek in a canyon, running across a ridge, or just taking on the flat, open desert, the greatest adventures always start where the trail ends!

Comment below if I missed your favorite type of desert trail!