Injun (Engine) Creek Loop

9.2 miles 1:22:15

Haven't had the opportunity to run this loop since mid-November. This is hands down one of my favorite runs (or hikes) in the national park.

                                          A good loop run for any season


As a run, I prefer to start at the parking lot nearest to Hwy 321. The initial road run makes for a good warm up before the fun begins.

                                            Elevation profile for counter-clockwise loop

For todays run I had no real agenda other than logging some quality miles and enjoying the trail. Cruised through most of the run at about a 9min/mile pace and was satisfied to not have to walk the steepest sections. Despite a large group of school kids behind the ranger station (they thought a guy running through the woods in tights was pretty interesting) there were only two other folks on the trail. As for the road run part of this circuit , I actually ran into more folks on foot than driving.

                                                    Hence the name, injun creek

If anyone is looking for a good winter hike or run thats off the beaten path, this is one of the best.