Winter trail running

I've never considered myself a runner by any sort, but from time to time I do enjoy lacing up my shoes and getting out for a few miles in the hood or on a few of the local shoreline trails. Running for me is an alternative to cycling when my time is a bit short or the weather isn't quite in favor for turning the pedals. I don't spend much time out pounding the pavement, maybe 45 min. to an hour or when it's snowing I can easily take to the shoreline trail with Kashi and head up one of the many canyons along the Wasatch. It makes for great cross training through the cold winter months and from the coaches I've spoken with, it helps build good bone density which some cyclist, mainly road riders, lack.I get pretty bored when I run so I prefer to take to the trails. The best part about this is not only is it a great workout, but it tends to challenge the entire body. It's great for your coordination and generally builds good power in the legs. I also find it much more enjoyable to head up some of the canyons along our Shoreline trails. Adams Canyon in Layton and Bear Canyon in Kaysville are the closest to me. Both of these are too steep to ride and have a number of bouldering style obstacles that require quick thinking and agility. Add a foot or more of snow on the trail and you're core will get plenty of work as you try to maintain your balance with every step.Key bits of advice: If you're headed trail running in the snow you may want to pack a set of gators. They're simple and fit under or over your pants and will save you from packing snow into your socks if you get too far off the trail. Gortex shoes will also save you from freezing or loosing toes. Heading up some of the canyons you may have to cross the river a few times and the last thing you want is wet feet. Try using wool socks as well. If you're feet do get wet, there's nothing better than wool to wick away the moisture and still provide good insulation. And don't forget to drink. Sure the sun's not beating down and the cool temperatures keep you from sweating out the fluids you've consumed on the way to the trail, but that still doesn't keep you from getting dehydrated. Dehydration in the cold = hypothermia.