I rolled out from the city a little later than I could have---but on purpose. The NWS office called for areas of frost overnight, and I wanted to let them have time to dry off the footbridges. I enjoyed a peanut butter & bagel while driving perhaps more than might reasonably be expected. I racked up and got rolling from the Ferncliff lot around 9:05am.
The trail was in good condition. The bridges were indeed dry, as were most of the normal wet spots. I think spring work crews have been out, so most of the downed trees have been cut and hauled away. There was almost no mud but it wasn't too dusty either. I saw one hiker on the way out and two on the way back. It was pleasantly cold to start and sunny; it got warm, but not truly hot, by the end. I didn't see almost any wildlife---other than one very offended turkey---but the wildflowers were ostentatious.
I ran with a liter of water and a handful of gels, which I ate about half of. I had some basic survival stuff in my vest but kept it pretty light. I whooped and hollered a little bit at the gate when I finished. This was a good run.