I would try to alternate the direction if I find myself developing a preference for either one. I guess it’s kind of an introspective approach, but if I start to get too comfortable I always switch it up to avoid stagnation. Forcing myself to run something I don’t prefer AND forcing myself to appreciate it challenges me. I like that. I’m Buddhist though, and part of that is the journey of self-challenge and analysis that we undertake.

Same as you. I really like to push my self up the hills, so if it’s shorter and steeper, that’s exactly my cup of tea.

I would prefer the gentle downhill for sure. I tend to think about it in terms of potential energy. Everytime I ascend I store some energy in the form of potential energy. If I descend gently, I can make use of that energy little by little. Every step feels lighter on the way down. If I have to take a steep descend I have to waist the stored energy. If I would use it, I would become too fast and hurt myself. I have to make sure I safely disperse the energy.

I do not have any preference for a steep vs a gentle climb, though. I have to put in the energy either way

Gentle downhill with some steep uphill sections would be more fun, and running is better if it’s fun.

For me it really depends what I’m trying to feel/do that day. I have a couple routes like that, that I do in both directions. They both have different purposes to me.