Here we are with our matching yellow trail shoes to embrace the very moment!
What can we say about this epic run.. which begins at the outskirts of nowhere at Manor Park train station and winds through lakes, prairies, forests, access major highways, back into forest, by Queen Elizabeth's hunting lodge, back through forest land and finally past lovely welcoming houses and ending at the Epping train station.
We often found ourselves ankle deep in mud, we had fun jumping over small rivers created by heavy rains using unstable logs as stepping stones. We were quite often suddenly off piste with no warning from our GPS until we were off the paths. Lovely colourful autumn leaves would hide the trails or the paths have just fallen victim to vegetation over the years.
No matter, it was super exciting to join up with the correct route after time, so we were not bothered by Mother Nature's obstacles.
While the grounds were soggy and muddy from autumn rains, we had a beautiful day with a mostly sunny sky. It was fun passing the hikers from time to time. Everyone was very friendly..especially the well trained dogs! (no mean dogs here! ;), oh it is rejoicingly hilly to finish the last few km, lovely..
The 6000acres of Epping Forest is the largest public open space in the London area. It is home to 55000 ancient trees, more than any single site in the country.
This run definitely ranks up there as one of our favourite.
Thanks again David, for making us discover this scenery!
Kelly + Miki