Navigation

The eternal debate that should be always raging in your head whenever you run at Phipps Park is between the merits of an Add-On loop and a Morning Loop for your 2-mile loop of choice. The Add On Loop consists of the same section from Gate B to the Triangle next to the Sun Field as the Morning Loop, so the only difference between these two routes is the sections that are away from this core section. 

The Add On Loop's unique section consists of a winding path through the forest, running due East of the trail connecting Gate B to the Sun Field. This trail is dirt and moderately wide, but not as well maintained as the gravel trails. Instead, it is ever so slightly overgrown and contains a rustic vibe to it. As you advance farther down the Add On Loop, you will pass some desolate fields that contain some horse trick equipment. If you feel the need to climb on a jungle gym in the middle of your run, then this is the section of the loop for you. As you continue past the jungle gym equipment, you will stay on the dirt enclosed trail until you reach the Triangle on the main trail, and follow the gravel pathway directly back to Gate B and to the entrance of the Loop. 

One unique thing about the Add-On is that it is typically entered from just a little past the mile mark on the main trail, meaning that you do not have to pass Gate B to access it, like most other major trails. This also means that the trail has just a slightly more rustic feel to it than the other major trails, making it more shaded and feel more desolate. 

There are also no significantly hilly sections on this loop, however, you do get the feeling that you are rolling on hills throughout. I cannot declare this loop easy or hard elevation wise, but instead it is more of a unique experience that is neither flat yet does not have any hills that will catch your attention over the others. Instead, you just seem to always be catching some elevation without feeling like you are climbing a big hill. 

The Add-On Loop is a very different experience to the Morning Loop in terms of terrain and overall feel, yet the net elevation is about the same and the trails are of equal quality in terms of width and shade. To fully grasp the difference between the two loops, I highly recommend you try them both and see which one better suits your fancy.