I'm intrigued by trail running if for nothing other than doing something different. Some of my long running routes include short portions of trails and it is a very different experience than street running. And I know there are long trails around here. BUT, you mentioned the one thing that I can't get past and to make myself just go do it. Bears! Snakes! Mountain Lions! Got any ideas on getting past those phobias (if in fact they can even be considered phobias and not valid fears).