I read the "running in the dark" topic... you all are discussing which light to run with. But what about general safety. I am writing this because, I run in the dark quite a bit, but near home - shorter runs. I am around houses and see cars and there are street lights.

Last night I did my LONG run a bit later than usual. I am training for a marathon and just because of a crazy schedule I started my 19 mile run at 5 PM. It started getting dark when I turned around to go back on my "out and back" I was on a trail that runs adjacent to a highway. It did get really dark really fast! No street lights and when teh headlights from teh nearby highway hit your eyes you're blinded for a few moments. On the other side there are woods and a river..... My husband called me and when he found out I was on that specific trail and how far I still was from home in the dark, he came unglued on me. It does meander away from teh highway under bridges and through some wooded areas.

Maybe we watch too many forensic files. But does anyone else have safety concerns beyond being seen or seeing? I understand the headlamp and reflective vest, but what about the creep you can't see hiding in the bushes? Do any females carry mace?

It is just so hard to find a safe route for 19 miles. I live 30 miles southeast of SEattle and the choices are run on a trail - do a million loops through residential neighborhoods, or run along highways with little to no shoulder with HEAVY traffic.