Trail running is not just slower road running. It asks something different from you. The pace shifts, the hills become part of the plan, and your watch might try to convince you that you are struggling when you are actually just adapting. If you’ve been curious about stepping off the pavement and into your first 10-mile trail race, here’s what’s worth thinking about before you lace up.

For many marathoners, the idea of going farther feels intimidating. Icebox was created to make that first step beyond the marathon feel possible. With a simple time-based format, familiar trails, and a deeply supportive community, Icebox has become a place where runners discover how far they can go when the pressure is removed.

Running progress doesn’t start at the finish line. It starts in the quiet miles, early mornings, and consistent effort that no one sees.

Day one doesn’t look dramatic. It looks like a quiet decision made before the run begins. Standing at the start of the trail, choosing direction over delay, and committing to what comes next. Every goal starts here, not someday, but today.