Alligator Hill: a lesson in hill repeats

By Jennifer Symons
Sun contributor

This story launches a season-long series on running and races in Leelanau County—a relatively new attraction for locals and visitors alike. Symons’ installments will explore both great places to train and offer narratives on the races themselves.

Alligator Hill Trail

Hills can be very beneficial for runners. Running hills builds speed and strength. I’ve often found that running downhill can present just as much of a challenge as running uphill. While running hills may be dreadful, there is a simple solution to making it enjoyable: run beautiful hills that lead to stunning views.

The main trailhead of Alligator Hill Trail is located off Stocking Road just west of Glen Arbor (on M-109 as you are heading toward Glen Haven). Both Apple and Google Maps recognize Alligator Hill Trail when searching. It is an 8.3-mile trail system that offers three main loops with varying lengths. The trailhead has a large map for viewing. There are also paper maps available to take if you fear getting lost or turned around. There is a restroom at the trailhead as well.

For a good hill workout that is a combination of rolling hills and flat paths, head towards the Big Glen Lookout. The route from the trailhead to the Big Glen Lookout and back is about 4.3 miles; the perfect distance for working on strength and speed on those hills.

No matter which route you choose, however, there will be hills involved. Fortunately, beginning at the trailhead, the trail starts with gentle, rolling slopes. These serve as a great warm-up. The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is also a little over one mile down the road and can serve as a flatter warm-up if you are looking to add more mileage to your run.

As you ascend Alligator Hill, you can see all the trees that fell during the August 2, 2015, storm. Despite this, the dense woods will still completely submerge you. Peering through the trees, you can see Lake Michigan to your left. But the views along the way are merely a silent tease before you encounter the incredible views that await you at the top. Due to the density of the woods, bring bug spray. There are many eager flies and mosquitoes in this area.

At this point, the hill begins winding. It is one of those hills where you can’t see where the top is. This can be discouraging. However, the top of the hill is closer than you realize, I promise. Before you know it, there will be a sign for Islands Lookout. Stop here. It is a stunning view of Lake Michigan and the North and South Manitou Islands. Pause for photos and then continue on. Less than one mile past that, you will come across the Big Glen Lake Overlook. This is another great place to stop for photos.

Hill workout

If you’ve never run trail hills as part of your workout, it can be difficult to feel comfortable doing it. It is important to keep your head up so you can see where you are going. It is equally as important to glance down occasionally to make sure you don’t trip on any roots or rocks. Alligator Hill Trail is largely comprised of gravel, dirt, leaves and woodchips. These items can become slippery, especially when wet. Keep legs low to the ground and focus on a short, quick stride to help avoid slipping.

To help power up the hill, use your arms. The sooner you get up the hill, the faster it will be over. Pretty logical, huh? This doesn’t mean you have to overexert yourself either, though. Maintain the same effort as you would in your 5K pace. If you are looking for an extra challenge, turn around and head back down the hill so you can run up it again. If you don’t feel like backtracking, you can also keep going onto the next hill, as this area is full of them.

Running downhill is a good workout as well. While running uphill strengthens the glutes, hip flexors, and hamstrings, running downhill works your quads. It is important to remember to keep short, quick steps while running downhill as well. It’s tempting to lengthen your stride while going downhill, but the pounding can cause excessive stress on the body. Lean forward with your hips instead of your shoulders to help with balance.

If you are just starting out with hill workouts, aim for 2-4 repeats of hills approximately 100 meters long. If you are more comfortable with running hills, work up to 6-8 repeats on longer hills. Since this can be an intense workout, it is recommended that you only do hill repeats one time per week. Never be afraid to stop and walk if needed.

Alligator Hill Trail is so beautiful, it is easy to forget that you are working hard during the experience. There is nothing better than exploring a new area while getting exercise. After running Alligator Hill Trail, head down the road to the beach at Glen Haven. Sleeping Bear Bay is still relatively cold, so use the water as a stand-in for an ice bath. No matter what, this beautiful Lake Michigan oasis will feel refreshing after a satisfying, hilly, workout.