Trail Work Event

Saturday October 10th: 8-12

8-12:00

Join us Saturday, October 10th as we help to clean up a neighborhood access trail to Mt. Jumbo. Five Valleys Land Trust has reached out to us to help clean up an access trail that connects the Lincoln Hills neighborhood to Mt. Jumbo through the Hauge-Mt. Jumbo View conservation easement held by Five Valleys (see aerial photo above). This trail, though short and lightly used as it may be, provides another access point to vast open space which is one of the many reasons that makes Missoula so great. This is also a means in which we can partner with and contribute to an organization that has helped to ensure the legacy of open space in our region.

The work required will be pretty straightforward and hands on. We will be removing some overgrown shrubbery along the trail, picking up debris, and installing a couple of posts for signs to be hung. This particular trail is in great shape, but just needs some light work to maintain its integrity.

Where: To reduce neighborhood congestion, we will meet at the parking lot of the Lincoln Hills Trailhead and car pool to the work site

When: Saturday, October 10th 8:00-12:00

What to bring: Appropriate clothes and work gloves.

What if I get hungry or thirsty? We will provide some snacks and coffee in the morning, and we will top off our bellies with pizza and beer at the Dram Shop after the work is complete.

SIGN UP HERE!

Here's the latest in trail running around Montana:

Jumping for joy at the Blue Mountain 30K - Credit: @margaretmenendez via Instgram

MTC Mount Jumbo Trail Work Party: Read all about the 10/10/15 (next Saturday) work event and get signed up here. Space is limited so if you're on the fence, better get on it. Should be a fun morning helping out on a local trail.

Crown Traverse: Missoulians Mike Wolfe and Mike Foote are closing in on Banff, Alberta, on foot after running from their front doors and venturing off into the mountains a few weeks ago. Whitefish photographer Steven Gnam joined them and will undoubtedly have some stunning images to share from this epic adventure. You can follow their location here. But if you haven't done it yet, check out their Instagram feeds for some spectacular ridge running shots.

Flagstaff Sky Race: An impressive bunch of Montanans made the trek down to Flagstaff this weekend for the U.S. Skyrunning season finale. Bozeman's Corrine Malcolm took 3rd among women in the 39K, Bozeman's Ted Farley finished 4th among men (5th overall) in the 39K, and Whitefish native Matt Shryock (now of Anchorage, AK) took 5th in the 55K. Kristina Pattison was also on hand to accept her second place award for the U.S. Skyrunning Ultra Series. Malcolm finished 4th overall in the Sky Series and Missoula's Forrest Boughner finished 5th overall in the Sky Series. Another impressive weekend for Montana athletes. Endurance sports photographer extraordinaire Myke Hermsmeyer was on hand and shared these images. Thanks Myke!

Since breaking onto the scene at this year's Bridger Ridge Run, Bozeman's Ted Farley is on a roll. Credit: Myke Hermsmeyer Photography

He's an Alaskan now, but Matt Shryock is as Montanan as it gets. Credit: Myke Hermsmeyer Photography

Missoula's Forrest Boughner, running his 3rd Sky Race in less than a month, ended up dropping. Credit: Myke Hermsmeyer Photography

Bozeman's Corrine Malcolm moving steady on the steeps. Credit: Myke Hermsmeyer Photography

Blue Mountain 30K: Much closer to home, 100 lucky runners took part in this local event on some of Missoula's favorite running trails. Jeremy Scheid took the win followed by Greg Friedman in second, and Amy Friedman, fresh off her win earlier this month at Mount Helena, as top female in third overall. Jeffrey Friess finished third among men and fourth overall. The women's podium was rounded out by Debbie Gibson and Sharon Bywater-Reyes. Amy Friedman's winning time of 2:27:22 is solid. She won by 12 minutes and broke Nikki Kimball's course record by about 10 minutes.

Tuesday Run: A few of us are planning to run Sentinel on Tuesday at noon from the Clark Fork trout statues. The usual "Mountain Monday" run looks to be on hiatus for a while, so we'll probably mix things up this fall with updates on here and via our Facebook page.

The Wilma and Montana Trail Crew Present the 2015 Mountain Running Film Festival

Where: The Wilma
When: November 7, 2015 @ 6:30 to 9:00PM (Doors open at 6:00)
Cost: $10 Advance/$12 Door
Tickets: (available soon) @ http://thewilma.com/events/

Montana Trail Crew, a local non-profit trail running and open space advocacy organization, invites you to come down to the newly-renovated Wilma for this 3rd annual end-of-season party celebrating the trails that connect the outdoor community to the wild lands and open spaces so abundant in Montana. Join us for an evening of spectacular trail running film capturing the lure and indescribable sensation of venturing deep into the wild.

Featuring a Montana trail running slideshow with live music by Beargrass Bluegrass Band, video shorts, feature films, and giveaways from product sponsors. Also consider making a weekend out of it. For the second year in a row, Montana Trail Crew and Run Wild Missoula are partnering to make November 7th the biggest day in Missoula trail running. Run in the Mount Jumbo Elk Ramble Saturday morning and celebrate at the Mountain Running Film Festival on Saturday night!

Supported by: Run Wild Missoula, Runners Edge, Sapphire Physical Therapy, The Trial Blazers of Garlington, Lohn & Robinson, The Good Food Store, Momentum Athletic Training, and ESPN Radio 102.9

Check back with www.montanatrailcrew.com for an announcement on this year's film selections!

The 2015 Mountain Running Film Festival would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors:

Michele not only co-race directs Wulfman CDT but she also races it fast
Photo Credit: Ed Braun

Michele Bazzanella is a true adventurer with a big heart. Not only is she passionate about trail running but she sincerely cares about others and being kind to the earth. She often can be seen running merrily for hours with or without her dogs enjoying the beauty of the trails. She is also a very talented trail runner. In 2000, Michele broke the 19 year old MT Helena record in 45:56 and still has one of the fastest times on that course. She also broke the course record at the 2010 Wulfman CDT and has one of the speediest times on that course too. She and I often run together for weekend long runs and have many memorable adventures. After our runs she picks up other people's garbage and recycles everything possible. She is a true steward to the earth.

Please tell the readers a little about yourself.

A little about myself, let's see ... I grew up in Columbia Falls and moved to Helena in 1991 for college. I lived and worked in Helena for 19 years before moving to Butte. I'm married, no children, and we have two adventurous dogs, Crooks and Della. I work as a CPA with Wipfli, LLP (formerly Galusha, Higgins and Galusha).

My trail running started in the south hills of Helena, usually with my dog Bella (RIP Bella). Upon discovering that I loved running uphill on trail, I decided to run what I believe was my first ever trail race. It was the Mt. Helena Run. Running trails is where I had my first real running successes.

Besides a daily dose of trail running, I am an avid reader, I like to cook, I enjoy making quilts, and of course I enjoy quality time with friends, family, and our dogs.

Michele's trail running companions

What is on your top 5 trail running bucket list and what have you already checked off your list?

I do not have a bucket list. I love to explore areas I've not seen and attempt new routes, but in all honesty I am a creature of habit. It is normal for me to run with my dogs on the same trail 4 days per week. I know every root and rock and yet we always seem to have an adventure. Seeing the change in the plants and trees and angle of the sunlight through all of the seasons is satisfying to me. I like to repeat trails too, and the list of trails I want to make sure I run every year keeps growing.

Snow does not deter Michele from running the trails. Pictured above are bunny tracks on the CDT

How do you think trail runners can help nurture and preserve nature and the environment in general?

It is my hope that trail runners remember that we are using a resource when we run the trails, and that we remain good stewards. Trail running is naturally a low impact activity, but that does not mean we shouldn't attempt to leave an area in better shape than we found it. There are many ways to do that - pull some noxious weeds, pick up trash, avoid sensitive areas when they are wet or muddy, participate in a trail work day or put in some solo effort. We ought to pay attention to the politics around public land as well. I know that most of my trail running occurs on public land, and I am concerned by the dangerous rhetoric I am hearing regarding our land.

At events there are simple actions trail runners can take to decrease the waste. Imagine the reduced impact a race would have if fewer plastic bottles were used, and if every plastic bottle made it to a recycling bin. We should not make it the job of the volunteers, just take the plastic bottle home or elsewhere and recycle it. We can take another step and stop giving away items destined for the landfill as awards and prizes.

What is your role in the Wulfman 14k trail race?

The Wulfman 14k race is a point to point trail race over a beautiful nine mile section of the Continental Divide Trail near Butte. My role has expanded over the years, and I now share race director duties with two others. They are Jeff Braun and Amber Wood-Jensen. Together we work with a small race committee and a team of dedicated volunteers to host our event.

What trail runs would you suggest around the Butte region?

Eddi Walker's Homemade Yummy Cinnamon Rolls are a treat for the runners post July 4th workout to the Lady
Pictured: Eddi Walker, Joe Griffin, Sherry Vogel, Nicole, Don Sundberg

There are too many to list! The best run for view from the top has to be Haystack Mountain, and the best Butte Piss and Moan Runner tradition is running to the Lady of the Rockies on January 1st or the 4th of July. Any section of the CDT will not disappoint, Lost Creek near Anaconda has been recently improved and is a stunning area, running to the Ringing Rocks in the Pipestone area is fun in the early spring or late fall, and is particularly interesting during rifle season. Explore Thompson Park by looping around the trails and running through the long tunnel.

Our Lady of the Rockies is a 90-foot statue, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, that sits atop the Continental Divide overlooking Butte The. base is 8,510 feet above sea level and 3,500 feet above the town. The statue is lit and visible at night.

Annual Run to the Lady every 4th July. Pictured- Nicole, Michele, Don Foley and Curtis Moen
Photo Credit Ozzie Rosenleaf

View on top of Haystack Mountain

Anything else you would like to add?

Thank you for taking the time to interview trail running enthusiasts!

Thank you Michele for the interview. Thank you also for being such a kind, caring, cheerful person and friend. We sure appreciate all that you do for the community and environment.

Nicole Hunt

Ethan Richards and Henry Reich ascending Pyramid Buttes in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness

Catching up on a few trail running events and getting ready for some more:

2015 Mountain Running Film Festival: Tickets for our 3rd annual trail running celebration are now on sale at http://thewilma.com/event/mountain-running-film-festival-401/
Come down to the newly restored Wilma Theatre and see first hand what all the excitement is about. Doors open at 6:00 and we'll be kicking things off right away with a Montana running slideshow full of spectacular images from Montana mountains and athletes set to live music from Beargrass Bluegrass Band. Regular visitors to this site might recognize the man on the fiddle as 2015 Pengelly Double Dip champ Henry Reich. We've got a solid line-up of films, many with Montana connections--races, athletes, and adventures. In addition to a half dozen film shorts, here are a couple of our main features:
Kiwi Tracks from Schlarb-Wolf Productions on Vimeo.

Run Free Movie: If you love trail running film and can't wait for our Film Fest, you're in luck. Tomorrow night in Missoula and Wednesday night in Bozeman there are showings of Run Free, a movie about the late ultrarunning icon Micah True. Much of the world remembers Micah from the book Born to Run. Missoulians will remember Micah (AKA Caballo Blanco) from a talk and group run he did here a few years back. The movie promises to be a visually stunning look into his life and legacy. So come down to the Roxy tonight and celebrate the sport, the man, and the legend. More information and trailer here: http://www.runfreemovie.com/media-gallery/

Le Grizz: October 10th marked the 34th running of this classic 50-miler, the first under new race management. Under the slogan "Different Fork in the River, Same Crazy Tradition" the event took a new course along the North Fork Road just outside of Glacier National Park. Also breaking new ground was the race victors being a married couple--Ethan Richards and Christi (Nowak) Richards. In fact, the Missoula newlyweds took the top two spots overall. Ethan covered the 50 mile distance in 6:24 while Christi crossed the line in 6:54. Her time is one of the fastest female times ever posted at Le Grizz and rumor has it that the new course is a bit more challenging (slower) than the Hungry Horse Reservoir route. Joshua Richards (not related?) finished 2nd among men and Missoula's Nick Triolo rounded out the podium. Rachel Bucklin of Spokane finish as second woman and Bozeman's Jenny Wolfe took 3rd. Full results.

Crown Traverse: They made it! Montana runners Mike Wolfe, Mike Foote, and Steven Gnam ran into Banff, Alberta last week to complete their run from Missoula northward following ridge line after craggy ridge line. Here's a great story about it in the Missoulian. And here's a podcast with Foote giving some more details of what these guys just accomplished.

October Trail Chat: This month Nicole interviewed Butte's Michele Bazzanella. Read it here.

Upcoming Events:

Elk Ramble: November 7th. Kick off film festival weekend by racing a trail 15K! This RWM event takes place on Missoula Conservation lands on Mount Jumbo. Full details here,

Sentinel Hill Climb: Get ready to feel the burn on October 25th. More here.

Montana Cup: This traveling statewide cross country meet is traditionally among the most competitive runs in the state. So consider representing your city. This year's race is on Halloween at the Sieben Ranch in Helena and the course seems like it might be similar to the 2008 Helena course that featured a few crushing hills and trail-like terrain. Sign up here.

Got a news tidbit to share? Send it to admin@montanatrailcrew.com

The Wilma - Credit: www.missoulian.com

Film Fest Weekend is fast approaching and we're stoked to make this a year's event a memorable one. For those of you in Missoula, you've probably seen our posters appearing around town and may have seen the event in lights on the Wilma marquee. The excitement that's building is justified, as this weekend will be action packed. So help us spread the word about the event. It costs just $10 if you get your tickets early, so tell your friends and help us fill some seats! From those coming from out of town, there's plenty going on all weekend with First Friday events, RWM's Elk Ramble on Saturday morning, and the main event Saturday night. We expect this year to be the best ever for a number of reasons:

1. We're opening things up with Beargrass Bluegrass. Standout Missoula trail runner Henry Reich is playing the fiddle, so come down right away at 6:00 on Saturday to see these guys perform. They're talented and a lot of fun. For a taste of their music, check out this clip:

2. The restored Wilma is spectacular. No longer do you have to miss part of the show when getting concessions and with the state-of-the-art sound system you'll be rocking to Beargrass and the mountain running films.

3. Speaking of films, have you checked out this clip from one our main features Kiwi Tracks? MTC's Jeremy Wolf and best bud Jason Schlarb put together their greatest adventure film yet. Watch these two MSU Bobcats run all over New Zealand. Rumor has it they even go clubbing!

4. We'll have a bunch of other great films too, including 3022' about the iconic Mount Marathon race in Seward Alaska. Other films are almost all from right here in Montana and feature Montana athletes and are produced by Montana filmmakers.

5. As always, we'll have giveaways from some great product sponsors so if you get lucky you might head home with a new pair of kicks!

At the races:
The film fest is keeping us busy, but we've also seen some great racing action over the past couple of weeks.

Sentinel Hill Climb: On October 25, defending champ and course record holder Jim Walmsley showed up all the way from Arizona to take another win. His time of 20:32 was a bit off his course record, but well ahead of his nearest chaser. Missoulian Henry Reich (fiddler in clip above) took second in 21:04 after throwing down a strong finishing kick to out-distance his training partner Jeff Rome who rounded out the podium in 21:08. Nicole Hunt regained her position as Queen of the Mountain, winning in 25:25. Missoula ultrarunning ace Christi Richards followed up in 26:55 and Emily Kipp, also of Missoula, rounded out the podium in 28:38. Check out our facebook page for a Myke Hermsmeyer photo gallery from the event.

Montana Cup: Held Saturday at the Seiben Ranch near Helena, this is as trail running-like as cross-country gets. For the men, MSU Bobcat redshirt Zachary Kughn used his collegiate track speed to take the win. Missoula's Henry Reich finished a close second and Tim Caramore, also of Missoula, took third and helped guarantee another team win for the Garden City. Missoula's women also took the win led by the championship performance of marathoner Trisha Drobeck. Keely West of Great Falls finished second and Nicole Hunt took third (first master). Other top trail runners also placed atop the master's ranks: Missoula's Greg Friedman took the win, while his wife Amy Friedman finished as second master. Amy's performance helped propel the Missoula women to the master's crown. The home team Helena men secured the master's championship with 4 runners placing among the top ten masters. Congrats to all racers.

Bobby at the Oregon Coast. Photo Credit: Erin Williams

Born and raised in Missoula, Bobby Jahrig is a 25-year old filmmaker, editor, aerial specialist and photographer. Bobby enjoys trail running, backcountry skiing, playing hockey and just being outside. Bobby graduated from the University of Montana with a degree in Media Arts with a focus on filmmaking. Bobby’s films and photographs capture the beautiful, wild terrain that remains untouched in a unique way that runners and people who cherish nature and the outdoors will truly appreciate. Three of Bobby’s films will be featured Saturday night (November 7th) at the Mountain Running Film Festival at the Wilma Theatre in Missoula. I feel fortunate to have been able to meet Bobby for this interview, so rather than my normal Q&A, I relay some of what Bobby had to say. It was great chatting with him!

What drew you into photography and film, what age did you get started, and what motivates and inspires you to continue?

Bobby’s interest in film and photography was sparked through his passion for skiing and being outside in Montana. In high school at age 16, he and his friends were into doing ski stunts, finding fresh powder, and documenting it mostly for memories sake. After a while the hobby got more serious and he started to pick up his camera more often to create short ski films and share them with friends. At the University of Montana he dabbled in several other majors at first, but eventually discovered Media Arts and Filmmaking was his true calling. Bobby is motivated to continue filming because it gives him an opportunity to share and be involved in adventure and experience the world and all its beauty and call it work. Not only is it about the scenery, but the amazing and inspiring people he gets to meet and work with all the time.

Bobby snapped a photo of Mike Wolfe and Mike Foote running across the frozen tundra on day 2 of the Crown Traverse

What films of yours will be featured at the Mountain Running Film Festival?

*Kiwi Tracks - Two top ultra- runners head to New Zealand’s South Island to run in as many diverse and amazing places as possible.

*Mountain Miles: Trails To Live By - featuring 5 accomplished trail runners exploring Montana’s diverse and incredible terrain

*11 miles to Paradise- a film capturing the beauty of a trail and the energy of the event.

Capturing a sunset shot during the Crown Traverse on the "Red Dragon". PC: Mike Foote

What do you enjoy most about being a trail runner?

Bobby enjoys trail running because it is an easy way to get outside in the wild, take a break from things and explore with minimal equipment. Bobby often runs up Mt Jumbo, Mt Sentinel, or the Rattlesnake from his house and enjoys the easy access. Bobby says running on trails allows him to feel like an animal. “I get so caught up being on the computer editing sometimes it is so nice to drop it all and get out and explore and breathe fresh air.”

What is it you want to say with your photographs/films and how do you actually get your photographs/ films to do that?

“With what I do I am lucky enough to do some really fun things and meet some amazing people that I want to remember and share. I have never been an overly talkative person so film is a way for me to tell my stories and connect with people. And almost more valuable than the sharing is how great of a way it is to listen and learn things about a person or location you are working with. “

“In my films and photos I try to give people a glimpse into what they may not be familiar with or try to invoke a feeling or a memory inside them as if they were out there exploring for themselves. There are some beautiful moments, people, and places out there and I just want to share and experience those as best as I can and maybe inspire someone to go out and do something fun, I guess that’s the goal really.”

Bobby says he tries to accomplish this by keeping it real. Bobby will often shoot a runner then go back later to capture all the little details. He prefers to go out and film adventure un-staged which allows him to tap into what is actually going on to get that feeling across.

Bobby capturing the beauty of the golden larches at Snow Bowl

Does being a trail runner help you to be a more creative filmmaker / photographer?

Trail running indirectly helps Bobby to be a more creative film maker by helping him with the tedious editing process by providing a mental break. “I like being able to get out from the house and just go for a run. Running outside in a beautiful setting is inspiring and helps me think of ideas for future filming projects or things I would like to shoot. Running allows me to just be with my thoughts for a while which helps me think things through.”

Bobby summiting East St. Mary's in the Missions. Photo Credit: Ian Hamilton

What was a typical day like for you filming the 600 mile Crown Traverse Adventure?

“A typical day would involve getting up before sunrise and we would eat a quick breakfast which usually involved a whole package of bacon cooked by our Vegetarian Chef, David Steele. We would then go over maps and do our best to feel out what would be coming for the day. I was working with another filmmaker named Matt Irving. We would leave before their run and start hiking up in the dark and try to get up into the alpine before sunrise. We would wait for them to arrive and when they did it was game time. They had their own mission and we didn’t want to hold them up at all so we would film every run and gun style which is film what we could get and then try to run with them as long as possible until inevitably they would drop us. At a certain point we would decide to head back and usually involve driving for several hours to the other side of the mountains. We would hike in and re-do the same thing, which is find a nice spot, get a few shots and then follow them back to the van. Most days we would be capturing the beginning and the end segments of their runs. Evenings were spent backing up footage and looking over maps over for the next day. I worked on this project for 18 days and was living out of my tent or car most nights .The biggest challenge was figuring out where we could find them. Once we got to Canada the maps became challenging and a lot of time was spent on Google Earth plotting out where to find them. We are hoping to have the film out this time next year at film festivals if all goes well.”

Tranquil shot taken at a high alpine lake, Rockies Park BC, during the Crown Traverse Adventure
PC: Bobby

Bobby filming striking scenery during the Crown Traverse. PC: Bobby

For a beginner photographer what equipment would you recommend and what advice would you give?

“The best camera is the camera you have with you. You can do amazing things with a camera phone or point and shoot cameras.” Bobby suggests learning the camera settings and take pictures during the golden hours of the day which is right at sunrise or before sunset. It’s all really about practicing and shooting every day.

Any new projects coming up that you would like to mention?
"I am about to start filming another episode of Mountain Miles featuring ultra-runner badass Kristina Pattison who is also a former smoke jumper. During the winter I will be traveling to Japan to ski and will be working on some projects there and back home in Montana."

Bobby and his girlfriend, Erin Williams. Erin is also a trail runner and takes beautiful photos.
PC: Erin Williams

Thank you, Bobby, for all that you do. Your passion for outdoor adventure and your creative skills give rise to films and photographs that really capture the special moments of life and tell a story that positively impacts people’s lives.

For more information about Bobby visit Jahrig Media.

Nicole

Winterim

By Jeff Rome

Winter and running are two words that usually stay at least ten yards apart, the one outside driving hibernation and the other being set aside for a return after the equinox, maybe, or reserved for scurrying through crosswalks when the red hand counts down 4, 3, 2, 1, and goes on blinking for the bold and the reckless, or those who need just a little longer. “Running through winter” is how it’s often termed. As in, winter runners realize how sufferable their preoccupation sounds and want to implicitly agree with the notion that we’re all just trudging through this until it gets better again (and it better get better again by March). There is some substance to the “through” if the snow is high enough, but this “through” is more meant to be a, “Have you ever driven through Kansas?” kind of through. Winter running is construed as empty of pleasure, full of the indifferent, indefatigable bitterness of short, snow blown days and digits dipping down below zero Fahrenheit.

But this is why I love it: because winter drives the sun lovers away. The snow teases its way from mountain tops to hill tops to hillsides and announces its impending arrival long before, but the day or two or three before it finally comes town bound it arrives by word of mouth. Everyone suddenly knows the snow is coming to stay (until something better comes along). It is the quiet friend who thinks profound thoughts but keeps them all in their head. Just as silently as the snow arrives, the rest of the world murmurs down, minus kitschy holiday tunes, to the same whispered tones.

Running has always been about solitude. Allan Silitoe’s story turned movie, “The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner,” has a title that would be doubly compounded by a Montana winter. The faces on the trails become fewer but more familiar after the first big snow. The same jackets are seen recurring ritually on the trails, and it feels like the mountains have closed their gates to all but family. Most of the time, though, there are no faces. It’s just that long white line of snowed over trail, the friendliest of strangers.

This is November. And the first snow is still all over town, being plowed, salted, dirtied but surviving and getting “through”. Yesterday I had a man ask me, in Frank Zappa voice, “Can I lick your frozen legs?” I was running, in shorts, in a snowstorm. Running in winter is sufferable, but all the layering of mittens upon gloves and socks over socks and in general being several orders of magnitude less comfortable than in summer is made worth it by the reclusiveness and the greater ease of believing, “I am the only one out here.” This is a much more inaccessible feeling in summertime. Come February, this love of winter may be rescinded under pressure of too many days of cold fingers, frost-nipped cheeks and, not always literally, cold feet. But right now, under danger of falling too into a holiday mood, I’m thankful for the cold and quietness of the hills. If I run through anything this winter, it’ll be pairs of socks and jars of Nutella.

Debbie racing the Bootlegger 50k. Photo: Kristen Wilson Photography

Debbie Gibson, age 51, is not only a very talented trail runner who specializes in ultrarunning but she is also a very kind, humble and thoughtful person with a friendly smile. In 2015, she spent over 6 months not running a step on crutches and yet through her hard work, determination and believing in herself, she persevered both mentally and physically to place 3^rd overall at Le Grizz and then in November she finished Rio Del Lago 100 mile race in California. Read about how Debbie overcame this injury, how she trains at a high level as a masters runner and mother; and how trail running transformed her life.

Please tell the readers a little about yourself:

I was born in Missoula, but being an Air Force brat, I traveled a little during my childhood, including Taiwan and Israel. I graduated high school in Oklahoma and always had the desire to return to the mountains, so it didn’t take me long to make it back. I have been married for 25 years, and have two beautiful daughters. I received my BA from Carroll College, and eventually finished my MPH at U of M. I am currently the microbiology and molecular laboratory manager at the Montana Public Health Laboratory where I have been for over 17 years.

I ran a little in high school, but never pursued running as a lifestyle until I turned 40. At that time (2004), my husband was deployed to Iraq and I had 2 year-old and 4 year-old daughters. Running became my quiet time. I ran my first marathon and was addicted. In 2009, I found my true passion, trail running, and have not looked back since.

I have been very fortunate to have had some good races early on which fueled my energy, but I have to say that anyone out there willing to give trail running a chance will not be disappointed. It is not about how well you do…it is all about the feeling of accomplishment and challenging yourself…a personal goal that allows you to realize you can do more than you know.

Debbie (on right) at the Blue Mountain 30k. Photo: Vo von Sehlen

How did you become a trail runner and what do you love most about being a trail runner?

I first started running trails with the Helena Ultra Runners League (HURL) in 2008. I thought it might help my marathon training, and also thought it might be nice to join a running group for some of my long runs. I remember being asked, “Why people run roads when Helena has such a great trail system?” I thought about that statement a lot. I had always been somewhat hesitant to run trails alone, mainly for fear of getting lost -- yes, I am navigationally challenged, so here was my chance to try it out -- and that is all it took to get me hooked. What a great and inspiring group of runners… not only did they get me hooked on the trails, but they also got me hooked on running Ultras which has become my true passion.

There is something about trail runners in general that is just so welcoming. We are all out there for the same reason…the love of running and the love of nature. It is hard to explain, but I have a true sense of solitude when I am running in the mountains, almost spiritual… a sense of freedom and lightheartedness that allows me to get away from the stresses of life. It is part of who I am. That feeling, along with the people I have met on the trails, and my co-trail runners and our adventure runs, is what I love most. Plus, it only costs a good pair of shoes ;)

Elkhorn Trail. Photo: Steve Engebrecht (RD of HURL Elkhorn Ultras)

In 2015, you were injured on crutches and did not run for over 6 months and yet you placed 3rd overall female at Le Grizz and then finished a 100 mile race in November which is an amazing achievement and so inspiring. What words of advice do you have for those who are also struggling with injuries?

I had a big injury in November 2014, which I now basically blame on overtraining. I had been racing quite a bit and packing on the miles, and really was not paying enough attention to giving my body the recovery it needed. My plan was to finish my year with a 100-miler in Arizona, and although I did make it to the start, I ended up dropping a little over ½ way through…I had fallen a couple of times and just felt heavy-legged and out of it. Turns out I had a hairline fracture in the neck of my femur, leaving me on crutches, with no weight bearing exercise for a couple of months, and no running for basically 6 months. What a mental blow! The hardest part is I did not really even feel this injury coming on.

Sometimes injuries can take you through different stages…almost like some of the stages of grieving - maybe a little denial, anger, depression, and then finally acceptance. If nothing else, through the years I have learned that injury is just sometimes a way for your body to say enough is enough, and allows your body to heal and get even stronger. The hardest part to overcome is your mind set… the feeling that you are losing everything you have worked for so hard. Although not easy, you can look at it as a time to rejuvenate your body and strengthen yourself in other ways that might make you come back even stronger. Cross-training activities (as from Nicole) have always kept me going… and even though I am not running, I am getting good workouts that have been shown to benefit me in the long run. I have always come out of my injuries stronger than when I went into them. There is such a fine line between peaking for a race and injury. I came out of mine this year running well… I was even able to finish a 100 miler this November and felt good. Just know that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and understanding that your body needs the chance to recover.

I fortunately or unfortunately have the gift of high pain tolerance and fast recovery, which sounds great, but can make me more prone to injury. If nothing else, I have learned to listen to my body. It did not come easy, but the more I run, the better I get to know myself and what pains I should worry about and the ones I should not. Just know that time off, although mentally challenging, is not a bad thing and will not necessarily hurt your running in the least. We are all different… but just take time to really listen to your body. I feel privileged every day I am out there and healthy enough to run. There are so many others that do not have that opportunity.

You have become faster and stronger as you became older. How do you achieve this?

I have no idea, other than experience. We all need time to figure out what works for us as individuals. There is so much information out there and what I truly believe is you just need to develop a good foundation and find out what works for you. A good coach --Nicole ;) -- can help with that initial development. (editors note -I helped Debbie with her training for about 2 years from 2008 to 2010 and she has trained herself since then). It is a trial and error type of learning. I tend to run a lot on my own, so I get to know myself and my comfortable pace, but also run with others that push me a little and keep me going.

Training in the Spanish Peaks. Photo: Drew Walker

You work full time outside of the home, are a mother of 2 girls and your husband works out of town. How do you fit in the hours running needed for ultras?

As far as how I train, it can be pretty sporadic. With a 40+ hour job, two daughters, and a husband that works out of town, I try to run wherever I can fit it in. During the work week, I pretty much run over the lunch hour...sometimes speed and sometimes not...depends on how I feel and whether or not I am running by myself. I usually end up missing at least one day due to work, so I don't necessarily plan a day off unless my body lets me know I need it. But I always take at least one day off...

My weekends are where I train long. For both a 50 and a 100, I need to back-to-back long runs on Saturday and Sunday...I don't usually go by miles as much as hours. It really comes down to time on your feet. I probably average 65-70 miles per week and really don't train that much differently between a 50 and a 100. The furthest I ran before my 100 this year was Le Grizz 50M, but I tend to be able to run on less miles, where other people may need more. I am sure if I was planning on racing, more miles would be better.

What role do you think trail runners can play to help preserve the trails and the earth?

I think trails runners in general are very conscientious of helping preserve the trails and the earth. We seem to have a common appreciation for nature and the surroundings and feel fortunate that we are able to be out there running. Any day running on trails is a good day regardless. Trash can be picked up, anything unusual can be reported, and helping with trail clearings and trail work days are just a few ways to give back.

Beautiful Elkhorn Trail. Photo: Steve Engebrecht

What trail runs would you suggest around the Helena region?

Helena has a great trail system. There are so many trails we can run right out of our front doors. I try to run every afternoon from work, either on the South Hills trails or Mount Helena Area. Just to name a few, the Prickly Pear Don’t Fence Me In trail runs , 5K, 10K, and 30K, provide a great preview of the Helena Trail System. The South Hills Annual Trail Series (SHATS) is also a local trail series that showcases many of our trails. We are also fortunate to have the Elkhorn Mountains nearby, which I could run in forever. The HURL Elkhorn 50k and 50M runs take place the first week of August and while tough, the scenic beauty will surely not disappoint... one of my favorites for sure. I feel very fortunate to live in such a great running community with access to so many varied trails and the chance to enjoy them.

Thank you Debbie for the insightful and inspiring interview. We wish you the best in life and running.

Nicole Hunt

Jamie and Amelia in the Bob Marshall (photo credit self timer)

Intrigue and inspiration drew me to cartographer Amelia Hagen-Dillon, whom I became aware of through her MTC blog entry. What I admired about her was that she succeeded at what many trail runners aspire to; she turned her passion for the outdoors into a living. I wanted to learn more about Amelia, and especially about what sparked her desire and courage to start a new life mapping Montana's trails. I ordered one of her waterproof maps at cairncarto.com for $12.95 and it arrived in my mail just two days later. My new map's exceptional quality was immediately obvious. It felt smooth and durable, and its color scheme and navigational lines were highly detailed yet easily distinguishable. I am excited for Spring so I can start exploring my new map's trails. I hope my chat with Amelia and her beautiful map work will somehow inspire you too to explore wild places, and more importantly, to follow your passions wherever they lead you.

Please tell the readers a bit about yourself and your journey into cartography.

Quick Bio: I grew up on a sheep farm in Vermont in a pretty rural area so I spent a lot of time playing and exploring in the woods behind my house. I was a total bookworm as a kid and I think my love of maps grew out of my love of books and a desire to understand how all the places I was reading about fit together.

I went to college in Maine where I studied Environmental Science and spent as much time as I could exploring the mountains in Maine and Northern New Hampshire. I took a few GIS (mapping software used for all different kinds of spatial analysis) classes and loved them.

My last two summers in college I worked for a non-profit based in Bozeman doing the fieldwork for several landscape-level research projects which is where I learned how to use a lot of the GPS and software that I use now to make maps. I also fell in love with the state of Montana and Jamie, who is my partner in life and business now :)

I moved to Missoula immediately after I graduated from college and Jamie and I started scheming about making maps of some of our favorite places. In 2010 we spent the whole summer GPSing trails in the Bob Marshall and we printed our first map (with help from a kickstarter campaign) a year later. We have printed at least one map a year since then.

Amelia on the high ridges of the Selway Bitterroot (Photo credit Jamie Robertson)

What is unique about your maps that a trail runner would find useful?

I think the most useful things for runners on our maps are the really clear topography and the mileage between trail junctions. The combination of (well-labeled) contour lines and shaded relief make it much easier to see what the terrain is like than contour lines alone. The mileage between junctions is really helpful for planning routes especially if you are trying to put together a loop in an area you aren’t familiar with.

What is involved in making a map?

We start by spending a few months getting to know the area. That means a lot of studying existing maps and Google Earth and talking to people who have spent time hiking or working there. Starting in the beginning of June (or whenever the snow is melted enough to follow trails) we are in the field four or five days a week hiking, running, backpacking and sometimes just driving to get to know an area. We GPS trails and we take notes on road conditions, trailhead amenities, campgrounds, and any other information we think might be useful later on. In the winter we switch to office mode and track down all the data we can find for the area. This means roads, trails, land ownership, geographic names, hydrography (rivers, streams, and lakes) and more. Since we work with data from so many different sources a big part of the process is getting it to all look good and work together. I really love the seasonal and cyclical rhythm of the whole process

Jamie and Amelia plus their dog Piper in the Pintlers (photo credit self timer)

Describe a typical day of being out in the field making maps?

2015 was really different than previous years because Jamie started working as a cartographer for Adventure Cycling last June. Instead of spending the summer backpacking and hiking together I did most of the fieldwork on my own. I’m still figuring out what the best system for me is while I’m alone but my routine this summer was to camp in the back of the truck at or near the trailhead the night before I’m planning on GPSing a trail. I get up at first light and make coffee, eat breakfast, and feed the dog while looking over the maps for the day. I spend most of the day moving somewhere between a hike and a run so I wear running shoes and clothes and I carry my stuff in a running pack. GPSing a trail isn’t much more complicated than covering the distance on foot but I do stop to make notes about trail conditions and take points at junctions and stream crossings and anything else I think might be helpful later on. I usually cover between 15 and 30 miles and try to make it back to the truck by mid afternoon. Back at the truck I look for a creek or a lake to soak my feet in and rinse the sweat off while I eat a snack and look at the map some more. I find a spot to camp close to the next day’s objective, make some dinner and crawl into the truck. I spend a few minutes writing down what I did that day and anything important about the trail and then I read for a few hours before bed. Most of my trips last summer were just two or three days followed by a few days in town to catch up on stuff at home.

Truck Camp (photo credit Jamie Robertson)

How did you turn your love for the outdoors into a business and what is your advice for others seeking to turn their passion into a sustainable living?

That’s a tough question! We are still trying to figure that out in a lot of ways. I will say that even something you love a lot starts to feel like work if isn’t balanced out by other fun things in life or if it is creating too much financial stress. Our approach has been really conservative- we have always worked part time side jobs (or now Jamie’s full time job) to avoid going into debt as we grow our business. I think some people can handle the stress of going all in and taking bigger financial risks but for us it has worked better to take a slower and less risky route.

What are a few unknown trails you discovered through map making where runners would find stunning beauty on runnable terrain?

So many places! We are so lucky here in Missoula, there are so many awesome places nearby. Some of my favorites, in no particular order:

The North Fork of the Blackfoot, especially in the fall when the larches are turning

Birch Creek (North and South forks) near Swift Dam on the east side of the Bob Marshall

Boulder Lake and the whole part of the Rattlesnake that can be accessed from Gold Creek

Watchtower Creek off the West Fork Road in the Southern Bitterroot

Wind Lakes and Graves Peak Lookout off of Highway 12 in the northern Selway Bitterroot

I could go on and on...

Map Sample, south Selway Bitterroot

Do you have any nuggets of wisdom for others that see you as inspiration to follow their inner direction or dreams?

Oh gosh. I don’t feel qualified for that! I really don’t think that I have anything to offer except to tell people to commit to hard work and focus mixed with a little fun and not taking yourself too seriously.

What is your vision for Cairn Cartographic?

We’ve been talking a lot about that as we plan 2016. I hope that in a few years we can establish ourselves as a source for the best maps available for Western Montana. Which is to say my vision is mostly more of the same: I want to keep exploring and making maps in this corner of the world. Eventually I would like to expand beyond Montana, maybe even abroad. We also have a lot of ideas for more poster-style maps like the one we made of the Bob Marshall last year.

Thank you Amelia for the interesting interview! Your beautiful maps are inspiring outdoor enthusiasts to explore and respect wild and remote places. We appreciate all that you do to create such excellent maps!

Nicole Hunt

For more information visit:

http://cairncarto.com/

Map sample South Bob Marshall

Rhea Black is a co-owner, personal trainer, and now health coach at Momentum Athletic Training. She recently finished a program from Institute of Integrative Nutrition. As a coach, Rhea wants her clients and fellow athletes to succeed. She knows good nutrition doesn’t just make you healthy, she knows good nutrition supports a variety of bodily systems. Long term nutrition, adrenal, and gut health can positively or negatively affect an athlete at every angle and addressing those items can translate to better performance and longevity. Next to stress management and sleep, good nutrition is the most efficient way to support long term health and athletic performance. Catching up with Rhea, this is what she had to say:

As a personal trainer, what prompted you to seek more information about nutrition?

In the 10 years that I have run Momentum, I have seen many people working very hard physically to achieve their athletic goals without an understanding of how equally important nutrition becomes to the success or failure of meeting those goals. I feel like many people think about nutrition a few days before an event, but it's too late by then. It's how you feed your body 80% of the time- over the long term that gets big results. By results, I mean lower body fat %, more lean muscle, more energy and generally healthier =more training days and that is success.

Adrenals:break it down...

The adrenals are tiny glands that produce many hormones that help regulate our bodies normal functioning. Cortisol is an important hormone produced by the adrenals when the body experiences stress. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and helps to regulate glucose (sugar) response to stress when produced in moderation. When produced in excess, adrenaline is produced as well. As a result: healthy immune function is compromised and causes compromised digestion, poor sleep (the 2 am wake-up), over-production of other hormones and this can lead to a host of problems. Athletes usually notice fatigue, inflammation, anxiety and poor sleep at the onset.

Over-training or too many high-intensity workouts, poor diet, lack of sleep (7 hours or less on an ongoing basis) and emotional stress can be factors.

An athlete can manage adrenal fatigue by seriouslyaddressing the following:

1. Reduce training- if you are tired- stop and rest! Or slow down, don't do any high intensity workouts and keep your heart rate in the target heart rate zone- usually between 130-140 bpm for all workouts until you feel better. Yes, this means slow running or hiking. You should be able to talk comfortably while exercising.

2. Reduce sugar and simple carbohydrate intake drastically! This means, no white foods (pastas, white bread as examples), candy, sugary drinks, etc. you need to read labels. If it has more than 5 grams of sugar per serving- you don't need it.

3. GET SOME SLEEP! Make a conscious effort to get sleep. 8 hours at a minimum. Take naps if you can.

4. Eat healthy fats (see below).

How important is nutrition to athletic performance, not just on race day, but over time?

It is critically important. How you feed your body really determines long term success. You may initially get away with it, especially if you are younger or have great genetics, but over time, poor nutrition will lead to reduced performance, injuries, and in some cases severe nutritional deficiencies. Anemia (iron deficiency) being an example. I look at nutrition like this: If you want to improve your performance or lose weight, or feel more energy, and even be happier- what you feed your body directly impacts that. As the saying goes-you are what you eat- literally.

What changes can an athlete make today to make the most of their training?

There is so much information coming at us today about "the right" way to eat. There's paleo, primal, veganism, vegetarianism, etc. It's very confusing. Athletes need to remember this: keep it simple. EAT REAL FOOD. If you are a meat eater, fine. Just consume the highest quality grass-fed meats you can find. If you are a vegetarian then make sure you are eating getting healthy high quality proteins and fats along with all of those vegetables. organic beans, dairy that is organic or grass- fed, organic coconut oil or organic olive oil are good fat and /or protein sources, as examples.

Don't rely on protein powders, bars, energy drinks etc. as they are not beneficial over the long term. They are great for race day or longer training days or when fresh food is temporarily un-available. Athletes should be thinking about eating simple, high quality foods that are nutritionally dense 80% of the time. Examples are: Eggs, nuts, full fat dairy, grass fed meats, lots of green vegetables, berries, sweet potatoes and avoiding sugar whenever possible. When I say 80% of the time- it allows for days when you need a break or don't have healthy options.

Food timing is also important. There is a lot of information here, but I always remind athletes to fuel immediately (within the hour) after intense or longer training sessions. Eating real food that is a blend of healthy proteins, fats and carbohydrates is ideal.

Finally, really limiting sugar intake as it contributes to chronic inflammation in the body. I suggest no more than 25 grams per day- max. You will have to read labels. 1 sugar cube = 4 grams! Most athletes are consuming gels and energy drinks when they are completely unnecessary. Water is all you need for 1 hour sessions -if you have fueled your body properly prior to training. On longer days, you will be taking in more than 25 grams most likely, but the thing to remember is that you will be immediately burning it off. If this is not the case, then you don't need it.

What are 3 of the most important nuggets you have walked away with from your program:

1. Establishing a healthy eco-system in your gut is really important. If you do this, you will absorb nutrients better, you will definitely improve your energy, you will have regular, healthy elimination and you will be healthier. Taking a daily, high quality pro-biotic is key.

2. Really reducing sugar intake. The research is out- it's fatal. It contributes to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, strokes and obesity. It has absolutely no benefit to the body outside of short term energy gain. It's a deep subject as it is used so heavily when racing, but whenever you can avoid it- you should. Look at the content of sugar in the food you eat: if it’s more than 5 grams; you don’t need it.

3. Eating lots of vegetables of all colors. As an athlete, they are mineral rich, antioxidative, nutrient and fiber dense, and the best way to ensure that you are replacing nutrition lost in heavy training.

How can diet help an athlete manage their training through cold and flu season:

Adding a few things to our daily nutrition can really help reduce lost training time to increased chances of catching a cold or the flu during the winter.

Many of the foods we have easy access to during the summer are harder to find "fresh" in the winter especially in the winter. So with that in mind, here are some recommendations:

Continue to try and consume as many fresh, vegetables of all colors.

Increase your intake of essential fatty acids- mostly omega 3 (olive oil, avocados, grass- fed butter, raw nuts and seeds, and egg yolks from pastured hens as examples) and a small amount of omega 6 (grass- fed beef, whole grains, almonds and coconut oil as examples.)

Consider taking a Vitamin D supplement. We lack sun in the winter here and most people can benefit from additional Vitamin D intake. Get a blood test to determine how deficient you are and then you will know how much you should be taking.

I personally juice fresh ginger and drink it as a potent hot tea. It is a great immune booster and is excellent for improving circulation in the colder months!

For more information visit Rhea at:

http://www.momentumat.com

runnerrhea[at]gmail[dot]com

406-541-7474

Beautiful sunset over Mt Haggin captured by: Paula Krugerud

If you enjoy Nordic skiing, Mount Haggin Nordic Ski Area is an ideal winter destination for runners. Mt. Haggin is located 15 miles south of Anaconda on Highway 569, which is the road from Anaconda to Wisdom.

Mile High Nordic Ski Club, in cooperation with the Montana Fish, Wildlife,and Parks has established over 30 kilometers of ski trails that reach to the Continental Divide. The trail system is groomed weekly by the volunteers from the ski club, to satisfy commercial skiing standards for both classical and skate styles.

Mt Haggin remains one of my favorite ski locations for its majestic snow-capped peaks, blue bird skies, fresh powder and solitude. During weekdays, I frequently have the entire ski area to myself, and during night skiing adventures, I catch glints of the moon and the stellar canopy as I glide over the glittering snow. After skiing, I grab soup and dessert at the cozy Sugar Loaf Lodge, which is just a 3 minute ski away from the parking area for skiing. Sugar Loaf Lodge also offers rental cabins. If you want to soak or ride down the 350 foot enclosed waterslide, Fairmont Hot Springs is about a 25 minute drive away.

For more information regarding Mt Haggin, see my following interview with John Lundborg, one of the gracious individuals from Mile High Ski Foundation, who voluntarily groom Mt Haggin several times per week.

Bountiful snow falls at Mt Haggin Nordic Ski Area. PC: Paula Krugerud

View of Pintlers to the West. PC: Mile High Nordic Ski Foundation

Please tell the readers a little bit about yourself and your history of involvement in Mile High Nordic Ski Foundation and Mt Haggin.

I am a retired (Montana Power Company) engineer living near Wise River. I was a member of the Mile High Nordic Ski Club in 1985 when we entered into an agreement with Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks to develop a system of nordic ski trails within the Mount Haggin Wildlife Management Area. I’ve been involved with this endeavor continuously ever since - actually, I’m the only original “instigator” still involved.

Sugar Loaf Mountain as seen from the trails. PC: Mile High Nordic Ski Foundation

Please tell us about Mt Haggin ski trails and why should outdoor enthusiasts visit Mt Haggin?

The original attraction of the Mt. Haggin area for nordic ski enthusiasts was the combination of spectacular scenery, a long season of consistently excellent snow conditions, and a wide variety of terrain. Add to that a system of developed trails and regular grooming. Finally,offer that to the public at no cost (although donations and volunteer work are gratefully accepted).

The developed trail system now exceeds 30 km, much of it groomed for both traditional and skate skiing, with some segments only groomed for traditional. Grooming is done at least once a week, usually on Thursday night and Friday so that weekend conditions are optimal.

Skiers can ski from the Mt Haggin parking area to Sugar Loaf Lodge. PC: Sugar Loaf Lodge

Inside Cozy Sugar Loaf Lodge. PC: Sugar Loaf Lodge

One of the Sugar Loaf Cabins available for rent. Across the road is Mt Haggin Nordic Ski Area. PC: Joe Nickell

Mt Haggin elevation 10,610 in the distance. PC: Nicole

How does Mt Haggin Ski Area offer such fantastic services such as regular trail grooming, youth programs and a warming hut without charging the public?

The Mile High Nordic Ski Club has always depended on dues, donations,and annual fundraisers to fund operations and capital investments. In recent years, the federal Recreational Trails Program (under several names) has made funds available for matching grants. To facilitate that process and also to increase private donations, the Club has secured a 501(c)(3) designation as the “Mile High Nordic Ski Education Foundation.” Particularly with the matching grants, we have been able to improve our “fleet” of grooming vehicles and implements by an order of magnitude over the last 10 years. Equally important, like every service organization, we have a core group of dedicated members who have made the MHNSEF mission their obsession (or at least very high on their set of obligations).

Mt Haggin Sunset. Night skiing under the stars and moon is memorable. PC: Paula Krugerud

What is the most interesting thing about the history of Mt Haggin?

The Mt. Haggin area was prominent in the development of the Butte mining operation. The immediate area of the ski trails was logged early in the 20th century to provide timbers (stulls and lagging), boiler fuel, and lumber. At that time it was National Forest, and the timber sales were supervised under the direction of Gifford Pinchot, known as the father of the modern Forest Service. Pinchot spent time at Mt. Haggin and some timbering methods still in use were developed there.

I think the most interesting thing about the logging operation had to do with transport of product. Steam winch cable trams on narrow gage rails were used to haul logs from the lowest part of each drainage to a water flume around the 7000 foot elevation. The flume was fed with water that was impounded high in some of the drainages, particularly American Creek. The flume destination was in the Mill Creek Valley, just a few miles upstream from the Dave Gates Generation Station.

The area of the ski trails has several streams: California, Crooked John, Little California, American, Little American, and Oregon and French creeks. They are all tributaries of the Big Hole River, and

ultimately flow into the Gulf of Mexico via the Mississippi River. The Mill Creek drainage, however, flows toward the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean. Therefore, the flume system at Mt. Haggin took water destined for the Atlantic Ocean and redirected it over the Continental Divide and into the Pacific Ocean!

Please take a look at the historical photos and read Jack Gilluly’s account on the Club website MileHighNordic.org . Many historic artifacts are still evident today when the snow is gone.

Flume on 6 Mile corkscrew curves from McCune era. Note packhorses in middle left moving toward point where cordwood would be dumped onto the flume. PC: Montana Historical Society

Cutting the Continental Divide below Sugarloaf Mountain. The flume carried water properly destined for the Gulf of Mexico via the Mississippi instead to the Pacific via the Columbia. PC: Montana Historical Society MT H 2

When does the ski season typically start / end and when do the trails become runnable?

The ski season always begins immediately after the close of the general hunting season, usually about December 1st. Grooming usually becomes problematic in late March when daytime thaw and night

freeze harden the pack to concrete. The good news is that the spring snow conditions make it possible to go anywhere (better off-trail) in the morning with just a bit of hoarfrost on the crust for control. This spring skiing can last till May.

The running season can follow shortly behind the departing snow, although there are some areas that can stay swampy well into the summer. Some of the best tread is probably on the upper south end of

the system (Li’l Cal, Vanna’s Way, Sapsucker, and undeveloped Spire Loop). The best way to access this country is from the Mule Ranch, via the American Creek Road.

From the American Creek Road you can also follow old logging roads up to the divide between the Mt. Haggin side and Beefstraight drainage to the east. Standing on that divide, you can look east and see the Lady of the Rockies (on the west side of the Continental Divide) and then turn 180 degrees and look west at the California Creek drainage (on the east side of the Continental Divide). Go figure! Your running group should do that just to verify that what I describe is a fact

Beautiful Aspens color the ski area during the early Autumn months. PC: Mile High Nordic Ski Foundation

Thank you, John, for the interesting interview. We appreciate all that you and Mile High Ski Foundation do to make Mt Haggin accessible for others to enjoy the area’s pristine beauty!

Nicole Hunt

"Going to the mountains is going home."–John Muir

Many Old Settlers Cabins are scattered around Mt Haggin Ski Route

PC: Paula Krugerud
To see more of Paula's beautiful photos see her website here or her Facebook page here.

A peaceful feeling. Barn underneath Sugar Loaf Mountain's glow. PC: Paula Krugerud

A ski trail is named after this rock formation -Crooked John. PC: Mile High Nordic Ski Foundation

Volunteer Groomers. PC: Mile High Nordic Ski Foundation

McHenry and Shannon Rowbury. Credit: Oregon Live

In an effort to answer common questions related to strength and conditioning for runners, and perhaps to debunk myths about the topic, Kristina Pattison recently caught up with experts in the field for perspective. In this interview, strength coach and physical therapist David McHenry, DPT shares insight from working with elite athletes and Olympic Runners.

About Dave

David McHenry is a physical therapist, strength coach and elite performance specialist. He graduated from Penn State University in 1999 with his B.S. in Kinesiology while also playing for the perennial powerhouse football team under coach Joe Paterno. He then graduated with his doctorate degree in physical therapy from Slippery Rock University in 2002 and over the past 14 years of practice has earned additional credentials and professional designations from his continued commitment to lifelong learning.

David has been the strength and conditioning coach and lead therapist for the Nike Oregon Project since 2011 and has assisted in developing numerous Olympic and World Championship medalists and world record holders. His responsibilities for the team span from injury prevention to strength development, helping to keep the athletes healthy during their rigorous training schedules.

He helps to provide the critical roles of developing athleticism, strength, power, and plyometric capacity while aiding in maximizing running efficiency and efficacy through strategic biomechanical form optimization. He also serves as an elite performance specialist to numerous professional teams, University teams, sports federations and professional athletes throughout the US and Europe and speaks regularly at national and international conferences for physical therapy and sports performance.

McHenry working with Mo Farah and Galen Rupp. Credit: Oregon Live

Strength and Conditioning Q&A:

As the strength and conditioning coach for some of the best runners in the world, what do you see benefits runners most from participating in a regular conditioning program? For example, can conditioning make a runner faster or more efficient?

Absolutely! Strength and Conditioning does the following:

1) Improves durability. More durable the tissue and your system, the higher training loads you can tolerate and adapt from, which improves your race potential.

2) Prevents injury. Duh, get injured less and you have more linear progressive adaptation over a training cycle.

3) Speed is basically power. The more force you can put into the ground in an efficient way with high rates of force production, the faster you can carry yourself overground. You can build power with sprints and hill work, but you do a much better job doing that in the weight room….and it’s safer as it creates a different training stimulus which gives more robust adaptations.

What kind of mental preparedness do runners gain from non-running conditioning activities?

Mental toughness is huge! If a runner goes to the line and they already know they’re the best person on the line, that confidence will take them really far. I actually see the confidence of my runners build as they get stronger in the weight room. They carry themselves differently into a race and have a tougher swagger. Mo and Galen both love boxing….yeah, it is probably the best functional core work you can do, and it makes them feel tough as rusty nails! You feel tough and you’ll run tough.

McHenry and Galen Rupp. Credit: Doug Pensinger

How does developing strength and power differ from performing conditioning and what place do each have in a runners routine?

Well, there are a lot of components to a good strength program. The actual strength/power component might only be 10-15% of total [strength and conditioning] volume. There’s a lot of core and specific hip work, proprioceptive postural work, dynamic flexibility, etc. The strength/power part needs to be periodized well so that it does not interfere with the running part of training, and we know certain flavors of strength and power work translate better to peak performance as key races are nearing. The general stuff (core, hips, flexibility, etc) pretty much stays in the program all the time.

Can you describe functional training and how that differs from just weight lifting?

Functional training is a fancy pants term that people use in different ways at different times to describe different things to different people. I don’t like it because it’s too general. I think they key is this….runners are lifting to be better runners and not weight-lifters. Therefore, what a runner is doing in the weight room needs to translate back to running or they’re just wasting time and energy. “Functional” for a runner in the weight room is different than “functional” for a soccer player. Everything done needs to have an intent for your sport and, personally, I like to include a lot of postural/stability/single leg balance elements throughout the lifting programs because I need to translate all the strength and flexibility gains and [neuromuscular] coordination into drills that are only a few standard deviations away from running. You’ve seen my lifting with the gang….I think most people would be able to come in and watch a lifting session with one of my runners and see pretty quickly that a lot of the things have been adapted to running specific postures and know I’m working with a runner without having to ask.

McHenry and Rupp. Credit: Doug Pensinger

How do you explain why runners like Mo Farah and Galen Rupp don’t “bulk up” despite a rigorous strength and conditioning routine?

The Interference Effect. Funny how this was discovered….crossfitters wanted to make sure they weren’t doing too much cardio work that might interfere with their bulking up from lifting. What the research found is that there is actually a proportionality where if you’re doing enough distance running you interfere with the protein synthesis that promotes hypertrophy. So, you get the strength and power gains from the neural adaptation without getting the physiological adaptation of hypertrophy. That’s some cool [stuff]! So, our guys are running north of 100 miles a week, so the interference effect is pretty strong in them.

Does being a physical therapist influence your perspective on strength & conditioning, and if so, in what ways?

Hmmmm, not sure….maybe. I’d say as a PT I have a lot more skills to look very deeply in to subtleties during my initial assessment of an athlete which then might give more more insight on how to create the subtle changes that then underline developing a more solid foundation to then build the more macro things (strength and power).

McHenry and Shannon Rowbury. Credit: Oregon Live

Trail runners generally run slower over rough terrain, and in some cases over extremely long periods. In what ways do biomechanics break down over endurance efforts? And what, if any, kinds of exercises are the most likely to benefit a trail runner over the long haul?

How fast can you drive a racecar with a bent axel? How well will a house with a [bad] foundation sustain the beating from a hurricane? Mechaincs are imperative for efficiency and as the body fatigues, its inherent weaknesses and vulnerabilities will magnify, robbing the runner of more power and efficiency, slowing them down and increasing likelihood of injury. The exercises that really seem to be most efficacious (yeah, I used that word) for improving mechanics are really the boring exercises that isolate hip/core/foot intrinsic strength and then obviously the integrative exercises (hot salsas, runners touch, etc.) that tie those all together in good contraction sequencing and stability strategies. The power lifting stuff makes you fast, but the other boring stuff makes you mechanical stable and sustainable over the duration of a long run.

As the main racing season for runners is the summer, when should runners focus on a conditioning program and should it change during racing season?

Normally the hard lifting stuff and total lifting volume counter-undulates in opposition to running volume and intensity. We can hit lifting pretty hard and long during low periods of running volume and intensity and then we ramp down lifting volume and periodize the strength and power stuff as running volume and intensity increases (normally as we ramp up for key races). So, for you, I’d say you can get some really quality lifting in during the winter and then during summer race season you need to keep some of that stuff in, but more as a maintenance phase and not a building phase.

McHenry working with Mo Farah, Treniere Moser, Cam Levins, and Shannon Rowbury. Credit: Oregon Live

Assuming a runner is doing two quality speed days during the week, and at least one long run on the weekend, when is the best time to perform conditioning exercises during the week?

Depends on the runner. We prefer to do lifting after workouts so that the hard days are hard and the easy days are easy. If the track workout is super nasty and long then we might lift the following day to ensure we’re not overcooking the goose and to get a better quality lift. Some athletes just do better lifting the day after the workout, so if that’s the case then that’s what we do.

How much time should an athlete dedicate to running specific conditioning?

You can get a lot done if you allocate 90 minutes a week, two 45-min sessions of lifting, but then you need to be doing your stretching and foam rolling throughout the week as well.

David McHenry working on plyometric power with Shannon. Credit: Oregon Live

What is the most striking example you have seen of a runner improving through a specific strength and conditioning program?

There are a lot of examples. The general trend we see when we bring a new runner in to the OP is that as they start adapting to the strength program we see decreased contact times, increased flight times and drop in race times (PR’s). This happens to about every runner we’ve worked with and we measure this stuff with equipment that costs hundreds of thousands of dollars and measure these things down to the thousandths of a second. Specific example.....Mo Farah. Mo Farah has always been Mo Farah with the same genetic make-up and potential but it was only after we started introducing lifting in to his program that he because the Mo Farah of today. You can google 'Mo' and 'Lifting' and 'Salazar' and there are quite a few articles where Mo and Salazar attribute the bulk of his success to our lifting program.

Galen Rupp just made the jump from the 10 km to the marathon, winning the Olympic Trials in his debut race. In what ways, if any, did his conditioning program change to accommodate the longer distance?

More foundational work to ensure he wouldn’t break down over the 26.2 miles, less super heavy stuff since we didn’t need to burn his legs on power stuff since his power is already off the charts and the marathon is more about strength then power.

Rupp working on Turkish get-ups. Credit: Oregon Live.

The Oregon Project is often under scrutiny for their training practices. In what ways have you seen the strength and conditioning program change results for NOP runners in positive or negative ways?

When you’re the best in the world you’re an obvious target. We know that, and shrug it off most of the times. We are the most highly drug-tested running program in the world and would like to think that never having a positive test speaks volumes….and we’re talking probably over 100 collective tests per year. I’d like to think the [strength and conditioning] program has been a huge advantage for the OP gang, but we also have one of the best sports psychologists in the world as a full-time coach, and Salazar and Pete Julian are both two of the best coaches in the world. We have great funding from Nike [which] can provide great resources: altitude tents, fancy treadmills, etc. If you surround an athlete that already has incredible potential with all those elements then you can do incredible things.

For more examples of common exercises used by McHenry at Portland Athletic Center of Excellence, click here.

--by Kristina Pattison

Kristina Pattison is an ultra-distance mountain and trail runner from Missoula, Montana. She works as a doctor of physical therapy and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and was incredibly lucky to spend a spring working with the brilliant Dave McHenry for her final clinical internship at the Portland Athletic Center of Excellence.

Photo: Mountain Athletics.

In an effort to answer common questions related to strength and conditioning for runners, and perhaps to debunk myths about the topic, Kristina Pattison recently caught up with experts in the field for perspective. In this interview, elite ultra distance mountain runner Mike Wolfe sheds light on the topic through the lens of over a decade of experience running the toughest events and projects on the planet.

About Mike

Mike’s passion and enthusiasm for running long distances in the mountains stem directly from his upbringing. Growing up in the mountains of Montana, his family vacations were weeklong backpacking or hunting trips instead of trips to Disneyland or Cancun. A love of long treks and adventures in the mountains was instilled in Mike from an early age.

Mike began competing seriously in mountain ultra-running in 2006 when he ran his second 50-mile race ever, at the US Track and Field Association 50-mile trail national championship. Mike won the race outright that year, then returned to win again in 2007. Later that summer, Mike won his first 100-miler, the Grand Targhee 100 in Wyoming.

Mike has since been racing competitively as a professional mountain ultra-runner for over a decade. As a Global Athlete for The North Face, Mike has competed in over 75 ultra-distance mountain races around the world. Among the many races he has competed in, he holds numerous course records, and has won or place top-3 at the world’s most competitive and prestigious mountain races: the Western States 100, the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc, and the North Face 50-mile Championship, among others.

Mike running to the win at The North Face Endurance Challenge 50-Mile Championship.
Photo: Bryon Powell from Dakota Jones' post race commentary.

Strength & Conditioning Q&A

As an elite trail and mountain runner who has seen the podium of some of the most competitive ultras globally, including Western States 100 and Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc, what benefits do you believe runners gain from participating in a regular conditioning program?

Durability and injury prevention. When I’ve been at my best as a runner over the years it’s when I running a ton, and not really doing anything else. However, it’s always a fine line to ride; how long can you hang on to that edge before you get injured. I wish I would have known to do basic strength maintenance years ago, as I would have staved off a few injuries. I believe maintaining some strength conditioning as part of your training is critical to maintain balance in your body, and by doing the right strength exercises, it can also help make you a better runner.

You recently came back from a severe ankle injury and surgery. Has your perspective changed on strength and conditioning for running? And if so, in what ways?

Before my ankle debacle I did strength and conditioning in the off season and pre-season only. Once the running/racing season came around, I would try to cut out all strength work, to focus all my energy on running. Hence injury occurred. Now I believe there is a place for year-round strength and conditioning in my training, even during the peak periods of my training, and racing. However, the exercises and timing of doing them has to be very carefully planned and controlled during those peak periods, and I believe (for the ultra-runner) only basic maintenance with strength needs to be performed during the peak of your season.

Photo: Mountain Athletics.
From Outside Online interview with Mike: Reach Your Fitness Goals with Mountain Athletics

How does developing strength and power differ from performing conditioning and what place do each have in a runners routine?

Strength and power are about using weight training to develop muscle strength. Conditioning is using high intensity efforts—which may be in the gym, with our without weights, or outside doing your actual sport—to develop your cardiovascular system, your aerobic work capacity. Both are valuable for different reasons. It’s obviously beneficial for runners to be stronger, as long as that strength is specific to running. Strength training is also great for injury prevention and durability. You develop strength in the muscle groups that become weak from running. Conditioning to develop your high end aerobic capacity is also beneficial because as long distance runners, the goal is to maintain a certain level of output for a really long time, with minimal effort (this is endurance). The better conditioned you are as a runner, the less energy you have to expend during a 50 or 100 mile effort. If I had to put a value on strength and conditioning for runners, I’d say conditioning is more important that strength, but strength should not be left out of the equation.

Can you describe functional training and how that differs from just weight lifting?

Functional training is sport specific. So, as an example, runners don’t need to be in the gym working on increasing their one-rep-max bench press, right? That’s ridiculous. Runners should be in the gym doing exercises that directly translate to increased running performance and durability: deadlifts, squats, core stability work, high-intensity plyometric exercises, etc.

Mike Wolfe training plyometric power. Photo: Mountain Athletics.

What kinds of exercises are the most valuable for a trail runner? And does this differ based on length or terrain of the race?

I think the biggest benefit trail runners gain by hitting the gym is to work on the durability of your body. Trail running is demanding in that it engages more diverse muscle groups than pounding pavement. In a long trail race you're climbing steep trails, using more of your quads and glutes, descending trails where your leg muscles get pounded with intense eccentric movements, you’re engaging your core and low back when navigating uneven terrain, often your carrying water bottles in your hands, or even trekking poles in some longer races. Sometimes after races I feel like I got a total body workout. So, I think the most valuable exercises are those that make your body durable for the beating it will take. Obviously, most of your training for this should be actually out trail running! But, in the gym you can isolate muscle groups to work on, and target different parts of the body to essentially get more bang for your buck, to get tough quickly. Lots of core exercises (abs, back, obliques, and this also includes lots of work on the hips and glutes, which are critical for trail runners to keep strong), and then functional strength and conditioning exercises for the lower body: lots of “hinge” work (deadlifts, squats), balance work to strength stabilizer muscles in the hips, calves and ankles, and I am a big proponent of single leg exercises. I think we all have deeply ingrained weaknesses somewhere in our bodies, those are accentuated from repetitive motion sports like running, and the weaknesses are usually on one side of our body or another. This creates alignment issues, and causes injuries due to unconscious compensation. So, doing single leg (or arm) exercises, where we target only one side of the body at a time, exposes the weaknesses and allows us to target the problem and work to fix it. As examples, one-leg deadlifts, split-squats (or bulgarian squats), one-leg box hops, turkish getups, one-leg jump roping…all these types of exercises work on weak links in the chain.

Mike Foote and Mike Wolfe on Great Northern Peak during the Crown Traverse.
Photo: Matt Irving from StrongSwiftDurable.com interview with Mike Wolfe

You are known for extremely arduous long distance running over mountainous terrain. Most recently, you completed the 600-mile Crown Traverse, and in 2014 you set a fastest-known-time on the 223-mile John Muir Trail. What parts of the body tend to break down the fastest over the long haul? And are there any kinds of exercises that will benefit a trail runner participating specifically in ultra long distance events or projects?

What I have experienced from these uber long efforts is that all the little minute weaknesses and imbalances (that you might be able to stave off during a single event or effort, like a shorter 50-100 mile race) rear their ugly heads over time when you are super fatigued, over a period of days or weeks. The little niggles that you don’t address during training because they don't seem to materialize into anything debilitating are the things that sneak up and get you during an epic slog like the JMT or Crown Traverse. Also, I will say that surviving—and completing—long efforts like those depends a lot on your level of experience and years and years and years of conditioning your body (and your mind!!) for that kind of effort.

Mike Wolfe, Mike Foote, Steven Gnam and David Steele on the Crown Traverse.
Photo: ultrarunnerpodcast.com interview with Mike Foote

As the main racing season for runners is the summer, when should runners focus on a conditioning program and should it change during racing season?

Conditioning for runners should be implemented regularly in training in the winter-spring. As soon as deliberate training for summer race season begins, conditioning should be part of the program. During race season, it’s much more an art of fine tuning, and knowing how much you even need to do, because often it’s less than you think. There is not much conditioning you should be doing during actual race season.

Assuming a runner is doing two quality speed days during the week, and at least one long run on the weekend, when is the best time to perform conditioning exercises during the week?

Sometimes—athlete dependent—I think it’s ok to stack a conditioning workout on the same day as a speed workout. But, this is for a more highly trained athlete. Otherwise, I would recommend staggering workouts, to allow rest days in between: e.g., Monday = rest, Tuesday = speed, Wednesday = recovery run, Thursday = run + conditioning, Friday = recovery run, Saturday = long run, Sunday = run + lighter conditioning session.

Mike Wolfe and Hal Koerner on the John Muir Trail. Photo: Tom Robertson for The North Face.
From: Runners World report on the JMT Speed Record

How much time should an athlete dedicate to running specific conditioning?

In the pre-season and off-season, 1-2 days a week.

What role have you played with the development of the North Face Mountain Athletics program? What is the purpose of the program, and how can athletes utilize the information to develop their fitness for running?

I helped develop the training for mountain runners, and participated in development of instructional video series people can use. There is a Mountain Athletics App that people can use to download actual training programs for different distance trail races.

What key principles can you share that you have learned through the process of becoming not only an elite ultra distance mountain runner, but from your background in rock climbing and working with the North Face Mountain Athletics program?

Don’t take all this training/racing too seriously! Don’t take yourself too seriously! Do it because you love the sport, because you love being in the mountains. If the fun is gone, then why do it? Also, even though I am a big fan of strength training and conditioning, I truly believe that first and foremost there is no substitute for being out there actually doing the sport you love. The best runners or climbers in the world are the best because they started at a young age, and they simply ran and climbed a TON, not because they were in the gym training. Get outside! And, get outside and do the sport you love with the community of friends and family that support you, and share in the same values you do of being in the mountains.

Mike with son Colt after finishing top American at the 2014 Skyrunning World Championships.
Photo: iancorless.com Talk Ultra Podcast

-by Kristina Pattison

Kristina Pattison is an ultra-distance mountain and trail runner from Missoula, Montana. She works as a doctor of physical therapy and is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist who found inspiration in the adventures of Mike Wolfe long before she considered herself a runner.

Casey Jermyn, Meg, and Anders running on the Up Up Trail in the St Regis area. Runners Edge hopes to put on a race in this area at some point. Photo from Carol Brooker

Anders Brooker, owner of Runners Edgestore in Missoula, former race director of Missoula Marathon, head high school cross country coach and husband to ultra- fast, inspiring and kind person, Meg Brooker is the feature of this trail chat. After a stellar high school cross country career, he ran for the University of Montana. While attending college at UM, he decided to take a leap of faith and opened a running store in 2001 with his parents, Tim and Carol Brooker. Through his hard work, generous giving of his time and sincerely caring about others and worthy causes, Anders has transformed and bonded the running community and created a movement that is inspiring and motivating runners far and wide.

What led you to open Runners Edge? What created the idea in your mind?

A combination of a passion for running and business, lack of direction, and blind stupidity. I was enjoying running for the University of Montana, but like a lot of students, was struggling with where I saw my education heading. I was home for the summer and can still remember the day we first started talking about opening a running specialty store. A good friend of mine, Casey Jermyn, and I were working for my parents that summer and we spent the day talking about a running store in Missoula. I went back to school that fall, but struggled to get the idea of a running store in Missoula out of my head. I grew up in a family that operated a few small businesses and the thought of opening a business didn't overwhelm me. That next spring we decided it was time to get things rolling and opened The Runners Edge in the summer of 2001. I can tell you I had no idea what I was doing, but with the support of my family and a banker willing to give us a 20 year a loan, we found a way get the doors open.

State xc 2015. Anders is head coach of the Hellgate Knights. PC: Melissa Kirgis

Was there a time when you thought that you would fail? How did you overcome that?

Of course! :) We actually went through a short period of time where we thought we had no choice but to close the doors. At this time, Missoula was the smallest market in the country that we could find to have a shop that specialized just in running. With the size of town and seasonality, it proved to be very tough. Now we have a very vibrant running community but you have to remember it wasn't always this way. There were many factors to help overcome that. We found that we spent so much of those first 5 years with our heads in the day-to-day operations, but we needed to get out and help grow the running community. I have failed plenty of times in my life and I'll continue to make mistakes I'm sure. I believe failing is not a motivator and it isn't something that scares me. I was always told if you worked hard enough and tried to do things right, things work out.

If you could ask for one wish, what would it be?

Clean brain MRI's for my wife, Meg every 3 months....

Meg and Anders at the Narrows in Zion National Park. PC: Unknown

How could you describe yourself in 5 words?

Stubborn, happy, energetic, impatient, and ... is there word for terrible grammar?

Adam Peterman and Paige Gilchrist after they both won the 3200m state championship in 2013. Photo from Paige Gilchrist

What’s the next great thing on the horizon for trail runners?

We are really excited about trail running right now! It is fun to see folks get so excited about getting outside and enjoying what Montana has to offer. We are always looking for fun ways to get runners out in the woods and we have a couple new events coming in 2016. This year we are adding the Bitterroot Runoff Trail Races and we hope to add another event or two for next summer. We are also partnering with RWM to offer a new trail training class this spring. This will be a class geared more towards the experienced runner. There are also a few exciting trail projects on the horizon in Missoula that will just add to already amazing trail access.

Meg and Anders checking out Seattle. PC: Unknown

What is your vision for Runners Edge for the next 10 to 20 years?

Wow, I am excited you think we will be around in 20 years! :) It is an interesting time for brick and mortar retailers right now with increased competition from the internet. We have a few goals, but the biggest thing on our minds right now is finding ways to give our customers an epic experience, whether that is in the store or at one of our events. We don't just want to ask customers for support; we want to give them more reasons to support us.

And as we look forward, we hope we can help give kids more opportunity to run. Whether that is through clubs, schools, teams or events, we want to share our passion for the sport with the next generation.

Through your passion for running, generosity, and selfless giving toward running causes, you have made a difference in other people’s lives. Everyone who knows Meg, shares your one wish for her to have clean brain scans. Thank you Anders, Meg and Runners Edge for all that you do for the running community.

Samsara visiting Cinnamon Lookout (LO) in October 2015 with Josie & Rye. Photo by Megan Vandenheuvel.

Have you ever rented a Forest Service lookout tower? The Forest Service rents lookout towers for a nominal fee. The lookout tower trek varies from drive yourself to the tower to a long arduous hike to a mountain peak. Most come equipped with a wood burning stove, tables, chairs, wood bed with mattress, flies J , log book, some friendly critters and best of all the experience of witnessing in solitude the beautiful ever-changing orange and red sky as the sun sets.

Samsara Duffey grew up in Helena, is an avid hiker, photographer, trail runner, creator of beautiful shawls and clothing, and has spent the last 20 summers of her life working in solitude for the Forest Service scanning the landscape for fires from a high perch of a lookout tower. Having vacationed in various rent-able lookout towers and finding the experience enriching and rewarding, I was inspired to discover Samsara’s intrepid nature and her continuing desire to explore the outdoors through her solitary work as a sentry.

Samsara working. Photo by Mark Duffey

Please tell the readers about yourself and about your path to living in an isolated mountain top lookout?

I was born outside of Missoula and my family moved to Helena when I was 3. Growing up we would camp and spend lots of time outdoors. The only sport I stuck with was swimming and I continue to enjoy it. When I was 16 my mom and I were camping in the Bob Marshall Wilderness and 3 habituated grizzlies entered our camp and were able to pull our food packs out of the trees. Subsequently, the mother was killed and the cubs were shipped to the Little Rock, AR, Zoo. I spent quite a bit of time thinking about why the situation happened and the actions that contributed to their removal from the ecosystem. I also made a promise that I would work to prevent this kind of situation happening in the future.

In working toward this goal, I attended the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, and earned a B.S. in Wildlife Biology, but the idea of only studying wildlife didn’t thrill me. I attended The University of Montana, Missoula, for 3 years and studied human/non-human interaction ethics and education.

Patrol Lookout in September 2015. A typical fall snow storm. Rye sitting on the north side. PC: Samsara

Before you met your husband a few years ago, you spent many summers living alone in a lookout tower. What did those experiences teach you about yourself and life?

This will be my 20^th summer at my lookout. I would have to say that living there has taught me to be comfortable with myself. It is a little trite, maybe, but lookout living encourages the embodiment of “Know thyself” adage. I feel that I have become a stronger person in many ways, most of which are difficult to put into words. I know what I am willing to put up with or do and where I am less flexible. I have learned my strengths and weaknesses. I have learned that simple living is not “a rut” or a bad thing. I have learned that time passes, no matter what I’d like to see happen. Each moment is a joy and should be lived to its fullest. I guess, in short, I’m still learning how to live focusing on “now” and living a mindful life.

What draws you to spending your summers alone in a Forest Service lookout tower?

Initially it was just a job in a really neat place. Now it is a solace and a revitalizing of my life and spirit. I like being able to slow down to take the time feel the wind and watch the sunrises and sunsets. I love watching weather coming in, or happening around me. I love the work and being able to assist with whatever is needed from radio relays for emergencies to helping fire fighters understand the terrain and weather in the area. I work with wonderful people whom I may not recognize if I pass them on the street, but know their voices the second they key the radio mic.

Patrol Lookout from the ridge to the south, looking north. PC: Samsara

What unique things did your parents do to shape you, and how has your name, Samsara (translated from Swahili to mean “a wandering through”) influenced you?

I don’t know if how my parents raised me and my sister is unique, but we spent lots of time outdoors. We would camp on the weekends and we would go to summer swim meets. We hiked, skied, and camped. Maybe those experiences instilled a love of the simple life in me that I am still searching for.

I didn’t know the Swahili translation. I’ve always heard the Sanskrit and tie to Buddhism where my name deals with the suffering of life as a soul works toward Nirvana. I’m not sure how my name has influenced my life other than it has provided openings for conversations and meeting remarkable people.

Samsara and Mark during a winter trip into the Scapegoat. PC: Samsara

What rentable lookout towers would you suggest for runners seeking miles of runnable trails?

There are many rentable sites that different agencies maintain. I’d recommend checking with the local land management office in the area where you would like to run to see if there are any facilities in that area. In Montana, there are many rental LOs on the Kootenai and Lolo NFs, but many other cabins scattered through out our public land. All rentals need to be reserved through Recreation.gov and there is additional information about the sites on each listing. One thing to be aware of (and check on) is the seasonal availability of a site. Some lookouts are rentals in the winter, but are staffed either full time in the summer or in case a fire is close. Others, like Hornet Peak, have a limited season from June to October. You can make reservations only as far as 6 months out, so now is a good time to start planning and dreaming of a fantastic run!

On top of Scout Mountain during the SMUT 60K in 2015. PC: Samsara

How does one rent a lookout tower and what should one bring?

For any rental facility like a lookout or cabin one should be prepared for minimally provided amenities. Details of what will be at the site can be found on the reservation page, but be prepared with bedding, a variety of clothing (think layers), a water purification system, and a light source. Most sites say that there is no potable water and recommend you haul your own. Check with the local land manager to get additional recommendations.

Samsara with the snow coach "Shoshone", a 1979 Bombardier. This is one of 8 that the company runs into Yellowston National Park in the winter. Photo by David Alder

What is your one wish to make the world a better place and why?

I wish for everyone to live a joyful life. It is too easy to tend toward negativity which pulls everyone (yourself & everyone you interact with) down. Joy helps dispel hatred, anger, and negative competition and allows each of us to live a full, happy life.

Samsara's beautiful handmade Snowflake Shawl (Samsara's pattern) hanging on a tension wire at Patrol LO.
PC: Samsara

Thank you Samsara for the interesting interview. Your passion for the outdoors, intimate connection with nature, words of wisdom, and having the courage to follow what you project as your inner direction is inspiring. We wish you the best in running and life.
Nicole

Samsara's handmade Snowflake sweater created for a friend on the rocks at the lookout. PC: Samsara

Samsara finishing Pocatello 50 mile in 2012. Photo by Bryan Johnson

Spring Trail Work Events

Spring is here The snow is receding further into the high country exposing miles of singletrack and new wildflowers. With some moisture still in the ground, now is the time to get out and get some work on the trails so that we can enjoy them all summer long. In an effort to expand our impact on the local trails, we are teaming up with the good folks at MTB Missoula to help get some work done. Mountain bikers and trail runners share many of the same trails, and it is our responsibility to pitch in to maintain this resource. Please take note of some upcoming work events hosted by MTB Missoula, and get out there and represent trail runners.

In addition to coordinating with MTB Missoula, MTC will continue our efforts on bipedal trails in the North Hills. Join us next Thursday (April 21st) from 5-7pm at the Orange St. Trailhead for a little maintenance work on the Froehlich/Moon Randolph Trail. We will work for a couple hours and follow it up with pizza and beer at the Northside Kettlehouse. Just bring some work gloves and water and we'll take care of the rest. MTC has adopted this trail and are continuing our efforts to improve this heavily used section of trails. We have some BIG plans in the works, and will make an announcement soon, so stay tuned.

Join MTB Missoula this Sunday (4/17) at 9am at the main Rattlesnake TH to divide into groups and work on a number of projects. Bring gloves, water, and a snack. Tools will be provided. If you bring a bike or are prepared to run a bit, some work can get done further out. Work should wrap up around 12-1p.

Additional MTB Missoula work days:

May 1st: North Jumbo Trails
June 12th: Stuart Peak
June 26th: Sheep Mountain

The following post is by Montana Trail Crew co-founder, Jeremy Wolf, who reflects on his recent move away from Missoula, injury, and ultra races in 2016.

On January 20th as my wife, daughter, and I drove out of Missoula for the last time heading west we all had tears in our eyes. In the rear view mirror we were leaving behind a place that we’d grown to love, a place where we fit, where we started our family, where we had formed deep relationships with the people and mountains. We were leaving home, for good.

A need for a job change and limited opportunities in Missoula had led me towards accepting a new one near Bellingham, WA. A place we were not familiar with, but had heard good things about. People we met who had spent time in both places drew parallels and talked highly of the college town and it’s abundance of surrounding outdoor activities.

With life changes swirling all around us, one thing stayed constant in my life, running. Running, that one thing you can do anywhere, anytime, in any weather. And that’s exactly what I did for the first two weeks in February. 5am runs in the dark and rain along the interurban trail and Chuckanut Mountains where my daily escape to normalcy. While the terrain was new, the motion was familiar and I found great comfort in that.

I had planned an ambitious ultra racing schedule this spring with Chuckanut 50k in March followed three weeks later by Lake Sonoma 50 mile in April. Not an ideal amount of time for recovery between races, but I was already focused on a return trip to Sonoma and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to race a historic 50k right out the backdoor.

With a month to go before Chuckanut 50k I headed to Whistler for a ski trip with my buddies from college, collectively know as “The Bros”. It was a raining at the bottom, socked in and snowing on the top kind of day. On my 5th run, I was flying down through the trees a bit recklessly when I zipped of an invisible 4 foot drop that knocked me off balance to one side. As I landed and started to fall to my right, my left leg over extended as my ski tip stuck in the heavy wet snow. I felt a pulling sensation on the inside of my left knee. I knew it wasn’t good, but managed to pop back up and ski a couple more runs with the guys before I decided I should call it a day.

The following Monday I went to see a sports medicine doctor who took my knee though a series of test. Upon completion, he told me the good news was it’s either an MCL strain in which case it would heal it’s self in 6-8 weeks or the bad news was it could be a meniscus tear which would require surgery. As I absorbed the serious of the diagnosis, I came to terms with the likelihood of being sidelined for much of this spring and summers racing season as I rehabbed my knee. The doc said I could do any exercise which did not agitate the injury, which was just about anything involving lateral movement. When I got home, I just about typed up an email to the race directors, Krissy Moehl and Tropical John, letting them know that I would be doing their races in the upcoming month due to my injury. I decided to hold off to just wait and see how the next few weeks played out.

After a week and a half of training on my elliptigo, I felt confident enough to run. I’ve never had an injury that made so much significant progress with each passing day. The pain was quickly being replaced by functionality. Two weeks after the incident I was back running on trails and feeling cautiously optimistic that I’d be able to line up for Chuckanut in 3 weeks.

I’ll start out by saying that it will never be easier to travel to an ultra than it was for this years Chuckanut 50k. In Fairhaven we are renting a condo that is two blocks from the start of the race. With my knee feeling 100%, I really wanted to perform well here, because I felt a sense of being the home town guy and wanted to represent my new local running community. I had also been training extensively on the race course since I moved to Bellingham, so felt like I knew it well.

Charging out of the gate at Chuckanut. Yep, making sure I started my stopwatch.

As the gun sounded the Nike guys (Bak, Mendoza, Kraft), Flaherty, and a handful of other guys bolted up the trail and were quickly out of sight. I comfortably led a chase pack in about 10th place for the first 7 flat miles on the Interurban Trail. When we reached the uphill single track section into the Chuckanut Mountains my long time running buddy from Missoula, Jimmy Grant, bolted ahead as he and I separated from the pack. I’ve spent more miles running with Jimmy in Missoula than anyone else, so there was a sense of nostalgia and familiarity following my friend up the trail. For the next 14 miles that’s pretty much where I staid, right behind Jimmy. He’d be strong on the up hills and I’d summon up all my mental strength to try to stay with him. We passed a couple guys, a couple guys passed us, we’d pass a few more guys falling off the front and so it went until we crested up and over the chin scraper climb.

I tied an invisible leash to Jimmy so he would tow me up Chin Scraper (pictured here) and many of the other climbs.

From that point it was 3 miles down on lush soft single track and then a flat 7 miles back to the finish. I pulled along side Jimmy and said let’s roll, expecting him to tag along as it was all easy running from this point on. I didn’t hear him come with me as I started flying down the trail. Gravity was on my side and it brought a smile to my face as I flew down hill to the Interurban Trail. Rounding the corner onto the Interurban Trail I new I had about 45 minutes to go.

Just a couple weeks previously I had done a tempo run on this exact segment of the course. During the race, I envisioned myself running this tempo run and remembering how strong I had felt. The closer I got to the finish the more familiar the trail became. This physical and mental training kept me strong and confident as I raced toward the finish. When I rounded the final corner and entered the finish chute, I grabbed my daughter Autumn’s hand as we ran across the finish line together. Never really knowing my exact place, I was happy to learn I finished in 5th. A solid performance on my home course in a competitive field felt like a great start to the season, especially considering I couldn’t even run less than a month prior.

Always fun to cross the finish line with this girl when ever we can!

Now I had to figure out the best way to recover from Chuckanut and stay sharp for Lake Sonoma, which just 3 weeks away. I was excited to return to Lake Sonoma for another go at the super competitive 50 miler. Last year Sonoma was my first 50 miler ever and I had run we’ll finishing just one spot outside the top ten. I figured I was in better shape this year, and as long as I could recover well from Chuckanut, I had a good shot at a sub 7 hour time and top ten finish.

The race went out pretty easy and I settled into a comfortable pace for the first couple of miles on the road. Once we hit the trail I was around 20th place, but not caring too much because I knew I’d see a lot of the guys in front of me later in the race as the carnage took hold.

Things stayed comfortable and relaxed and I was surprised to already be passing 4 runners around Madrone Point, at mile 18. I wasn’t expecting this amount of runners to be faiding this early. Up ahead were the big climbs of the race and mentally it was helpful having the course experience of knowing when the climbs would end. Heading up the last climb is where I saw the race leaders heading towards me on this out and back course. Jim Wamsley was absolutely flying down hill. I don’t think I’ve seen a runner resemble a gazelle more than at that moment.

Perfect weather for running 50 miles. Sharing a few miles here with Alex Varner.

I made it into the 25 mile aid station and on the way out saw Karl Meltzer running in. This was exactly reminiscent of last years race. I passed one more runner on the climb on the way back to Madrone. The legs were feeling pretty good, with a slight cramp in the right quad triggering on the climbs. On the steep sections when I power hiked, I’d simultaneously rub my palm down my quad in an effort to keep the cramping at bay.

I tried to maintain a steady pace and be on top of my fluids and gels on the way back. I made one more pass and then a couple miles later rolled into the mile 38 aid station. I gathered some information that I was sitting right around 10th place at the time. As I ran out of the aid down to the stream crossing I could hear cheers for Karl and another runner right behind me. Shortly after the stream crossing Karl and another runner came flying by me. I didn’t feel like I was running that slow, but they both zipped by me quickly. As Karl said “On your left Wolf”, I replied “Deja Vu”. This was the exact same spot where Karl had passed me last year. As those guys pulled away I wondered if I’d catch a second wind soon and be able to catch back up as I had done the year before.

Grinding up one of the longer climbs the course has to offer.

Over the next five miles things just stayed constant. Not fast, not slow, just somewhere in the middle. I was starting to become content with 12th place and would just maintain to the finish. That all changed as soon as I caught sight of two guys ahead of me heading down the the short out and back aid station at mile 45. As soon as I laid eyes on these guys the slight quad cramping disappeared and I was mentally back in race mode! As I trailed these two into the aid station, Zach Bitter was heading out a couple minutes ahead of us. I made quick time in the aid and was the first guy out and now on a mission to catch Zach. Wolf was on the hunt!

A couple miles later I caught a glimpse of Zach heading up the long climb toward the finish. A few minutes later I passed him. I kept the throttle down all the way to the finish and was pretty happy to finish in 9th place in 7:05:55. Not the sub seven hour time I’d wanted, but landing in the top 10 after a rally near the end felt good.

Fortunate to call Paul Terranova and Karl Meltzer my teammates. These guys are still kicking ass well into their 40's. Inspired!

The post race scene at Sonoma is always great with good food, beer, and friends to catch up with. Tropical John put’s on an outstanding race and I enjoy feeling the hospitality and friendliness of the ultra running community during the entire race weekend.

So if you haven’t gathered it yet, my made up event called Chucknoma is racing Chuckanut 50k and Lake Sonoma 50 mile back to back I wasn’t the only one who raced these two races this year, I’m just the only one who came up with a name for it. Below are the results for the 2016 Chucknoma. I’m not advocating Chucknoma become a thing or goal for anyone, it’s just how the cards fell for me this year. I typically schedule my ultra races months apart from one another, not weeks.

2016 Chucknoma Results

Runner	Chuckanut 50k	Lake Sonoma 50m	Chucknoma
Mario Mendoza	3:40:06	6:30:44	10:10:50
Matt Flaherty	3:43:05	6:53:34	10:36:39
Jeremy Wolf	3:55:41	7:05:55	11:01:36

The Chucknoma flag has been planted and we’ll see who comes in search of it next year.

There you have it. The secret to my ultra running success in 2016 is uprooting your family, start a new job, and strain a knee ligament. Sometimes things just work out in life and it’s best not to over analyze why, bust rather just be grateful and enjoy the ride.

Chucknoma Gear:

Hoka One One Speed Instinct - Light weight and fast trail racing shoes that are due out this summer. Glad to be helping with the development of this shoe.

Ultimate Direction Groove Stereo - UD finally nailed a waist belt that I felt comfortable racing in. With two soft flasks in the back and gels and salt tabs up front, this carries every thing I need in a comfortable and easy to access way.

Watch Billy Yang's short Lake Sonoma 50 video for good visuals of the race.

Special thanks to Krissy Moehl and Tropical John for directing some of the most iconic ultras in the U.S. They and their support team put on flawless events this year that continue to foster the strong sense of community that makes ultra running a truly special sport to be a part of. Shout out to my wife Tiffany for supporting my work/life/running balance.

Results:
April 19th - Chuckanut 50k
May 9th - Lake Sonoma 50 mile

Photographers/Videographers:
Glen Tachiyama
Mating Putelis
Billy Yang

Link to Jeremy Wolf Website

Dakota Umbel and Sophie Tsairis on Mount Sentinel above Missoula. Photo: Kristina Pattison

Working our way up Northwest Ridge route, our conversation fizzles. Breaths are saved for breathing. We settle into a grind, pushing down on our knees and navigating over and through the occasional stair-stepping rocks, grabbing here and there for balance. After the final push to the top, I turn to see beaming faces. Some looks of relief mixed with accomplishment but all smiling, all proud, all women.

This is Missoula and the women here run.

But when I moved to Missoula I was not a runner. During 2009, I was a rookie candidate for the Missoula Smokejumpers. Among a class of eight that dwindled to five, I was the last standing female among a group of outstanding males. It was not easy, but it was a common theme in my life. Smokejumping taught me many lessons about what women are, what we can be, and why we consistently do or do not achieve our aspirations.

Women can be surprisingly stubborn. For good or for bad, we tend to stick to our guns.

Approximately 20% of wildland firefighters in America are female. That number drops to about 10% of the nearly 400 smokejumpers employed in America to parachute into mountainous terrain to extinguish wildland fires in remote areas. When I graduated the program, six of 80 active jumpers working at the Missoula Smokejumper Base were female. All strong, all stubbornly independent, all of us six: women.

While working for the smokejumpers, and finishing my undergraduate education at the University of Montana Health and Human Performance Department, I had the opportunity to assist Joseph Domitrovich, PhD, and Steven Gaskill, PhD, at the Human Performance Lab. During their research studies for the USFS Missoula Technology & Development Center, we learned the relative fitness of female smokejumpers is significantly higher than male smokejumpers.

Relative fitness is a ratio of the aerobic threshold of an athlete divided by their maximum aerobic capacity. Basically, it suggests the percentage of a person’s max output they will be able to sustain while exercising. In real terms, this means women smokejumpers work at a much higher percent of their aerobic max capacity than men.

But why? The men are still bigger, and often have higher maximum aerobic capacity. But the men aren’t using all of their engine. Performing daily work like cutting fire line with hand tools, using chainsaws, or carrying heavy packs is not maxing the gears in the men. The women are trained to use more of their engine effectively, to perform the same grueling 16-hour shifts of arduous manual labor in extreme environments as their male counterparts.

So how does a woman get to be so physically tough? Anecdotally I can say: mental grit.

Women smokejumpers invariably train throughout the winter, obsessively lifting, hiking, eating, running, skiing, etc. to maintain their extraordinarily high levels of fitness. The aerobic threshold of women smokejumpers when tested was comparable to the most elite female athletes in the world. Male smokejumpers, when cross-compared with the general population at different age groups out-perform at every age. They too are considered among some of the fittest men in America, so they set a high standard for the women to match.

It takes a particularly tough and confident mental constitution for any female candidate to attempt that lofty goal. Of course some physical characteristics are preferable, but as one of the smallest women ever to jump, I can say truthfully 99.9% of the battle is mental grit.

Some women will try, some women will succeed, most women will not. I have spent every year since 2009 mentoring both. What is the difference between those who try and those who succeed?

Those who succeed believe they can and they chose the path to get there. When it gets hard, they stop talking and they keep walking.

Since 2014, I have been on the board of Montana Trail Crew, a non-profit organization advertised at that time as being committed to “building a trail running community in Montana…” along with being a resource for education and stewardship for the preservation and maintenance of our local trail system. During the summer of 2014, I started a women’s trail running group through MTC in Missoula to facilitate an environment that would encourage women to run together and build each other up.

Suffering together under a common purpose brings people together on a deeper level that cannot be achieved in any other way.

People with a common purpose share a collective conscience. We share trails, we value trails, we value each other, and we take care of all of the above.

More often than not, I am approached by women who will not run with me. They tell me they cannot run with me. I tell them they can. They tell me they can’t.

I’m telling you, you can.

We meet Fridays, 6:30pm in the M trailhead parking lot. Tell yourself you can.

--by Kristina Pattison

Kristina Pattison is an ultra-distance mountain and trail runner from Missoula, Montana. She works as a doctor of physical therapy and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist at Missoula Bone & Joint Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine.

Glacier National Park, Montana

The service thus established shall promote and regulate the use of the Federal areas known as national parks, monuments, and reservations hereinafter specified by such means and measures as conform to the fundamental purposes of the said parks, monuments, and reservations, which purpose is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations. –Organic Act of 1916

The world has changed a lot since Congress passed the National Park Service Organic Act of 1916. So have the National Parks. There are tour bus-filled roads, overflowing trailheads, and tame squirrels begging for nibbles of granola. But the parks are also full of craggy summits, miles of pristine shoreline, and hallowed ground that is central to the American experience. Visiting the National Parks is about discovering the magic of place and leaving inspired. It’s about recognizing that these natural and cultural treasures are set aside because we, as a society, value them enough to protect them.

A morning run up the Lincoln Memorial should be on every runner's bucket list. It was a 2016 National Park Week highlight for me.

A couple years ago, I celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act by running in Montana’s Wilderness Areas. Running wilderness got me up close and personal with mountain ranges I barely knew existed. It also gave me an opportunity to share my love for wild lands with anyone who would listen. This year, I hope to relive some of that experience in a whole new way. I’m turning my attention to running the National Parks in honor of the NPS centennial. I'm calling it Project Run Your Park.

I kicked off Project Run You Park earlier this month with a week of family camping and running in Zion National Park.

There are hundreds of National Park units and I’ll be lucky if I run a few dozen of them. I won’t always run them fast or even long, but I intend to do the effort justice. I’ll open up my stride down empty canyon roads in the crisp morning air, long before the endless flow of cars trace my path. I’ll jog slowly along some riverside interpretive trail, taking the time to read up on some otherwise unknown factoid. I’ll venture into the wilderness to embrace the majesty we can only experience on our own two feet. To me, the NPS centennial is motivation to connect with these special places during a special year. It’s a time to discover new places and return to the places that have shaped me.

Sporting the red, white, and blue at Washington Monument this week

Bryce Canyon is a trail running paradise and a wonderful place to get lost. April 2016.

Sunset on the C & O Canal National Historic Park. A classic DC run. April 2016.

A dozen years ago, as a young Park Ranger working in Grand Teton National Park, I gave a lot of talks about a lot of things: wildflowers, geology, and bears. My favorite talks centered on history and I often encouraged people to reflect on why the National Parks mattered to them. Some nights, with the Teton mountain backdrop and a crackling campfire casting shadows, I could have said anything and the audience would have left inspired. The mountains were always the star of the show and made my job easy. When the faded sunset left alpenglow to illuminate to the stark pinnacles, the towering silhouettes looked down on the campground. At just the right moment, I shared the words of an early Grand Teton National Park proponent who predicted that the park would be “a monument to the men who would help it along, with the Grand Teton as their headstone--that's big enough to fire any man's imagination.” Grand Teton and the hundreds of other National Parks are indeed the legacy of the men and women who helped ensure their protection. They have been set aside for conservation, preservation, and enjoyment and for the past 100 years the NPS has been tasked with upholding that mission. When you get out and experience the parks it's easy to see why they're protected and if you're lucky enough to venture off the beaten path you'll undoubtedly discover why they matter to you.

A morning run up Zion Canyon Road a few weeks ago had its rewards

Throwback to signing off on a Jr. Ranger in Moose, Wyoming. Circa 2004.

I hope that running the parks this year will bring education and discovery, sort of like a junior ranger project. Inaugurating junior rangers was a daily ritual when I wore the grey and green. Some of those dedicated kids displayed badges earned from National Parks all over the country. I was always envious. So this year, in place of badges I'll collect experiences. I’ll run roads and trails, and places where there is no trail. I’ll visit monuments and wilderness. I’ll run up mountains and through cities. I’ll do my best to avoid traffic, crowds, and wildlife. In exchange, I’ll earn sunrises, sunsets, and summits. If I’m lucky I'll learn why these parks matter and hear the stories of the people who have fought to protect them.

Discovering a new trail in Bryce Canyon National Park

Last fall the National Park Service announced that it was encouraging the public to #FindYourPark. It listed 100 ways to do it. Number 74? Run! So as I #RunYourPark this year, I hope others can find their park too. Get out there, take a run, and see why the National Parks are worth supporting. In recent years there has been considerable rhetoric thrown around threatening the very existence of public lands. As trail runners who value these places, it's important that we recognize that they must not be taken for granted and do our part to ensure that they'll be protected for our enjoyment into the next century.

I’ll be posting occasional updates from my adventure at www.montanatrailcrew.com and will be sharing photos along the way via Instagram tagged #RunYourPark and #montantrailcrew. So if you’re up for sharing your own experience running the parks this centennial through words or images, tag it or let us know about it and I'll post it in my MTC Weekly News column or through Montana Trail Crew social media. By experiencing and demonstrating that we support the National Parks and other public lands we can do our own little part to help ensure that they'll be around for another century.

MTC Trail Work Event-October 10th

Trail Work Event

Saturday October 10th: 8-12

8-12:00

SIGN UP HERE!

MTC Weekly News: 10/5/2015

The 2015 Mountain Running Film Festival

Trail Chat with Michele Bazzanella

MTC Weekly News: 10/20/15

MTC Weekly News: Film Fest Edition

Trail Chat with Trail Running Filmmaker/Photographer Bobby Jahrig

Jeff Rome: Winterim

Winterim

Trail Chat with Debbie Gibson

Trail Chat with Amelia Hagen-Dillon

Nutrition for Athletes: Q&A with Rhea Black by Jessie Thomas

Trail Chat with John Lundborg: Mt Haggin Nordic Ski Area

Strength & Conditioning for Runners (Part 1) with David McHenry, DPT

About Dave

Strength and Conditioning Q&A:

Strength & Conditioning for Runners (Part 2) with Mike Wolfe

About Mike

Strength & Conditioning Q&A

Trail Chat with Anders Brooker: Founder of Runners Edge

Trail Chat with Samsara Duffey: US Forest Service Sentry

Spring Trail Work Events

Spring Trail Work Events

Chucknoma - 3 weeks, 2 Ultras, and life

Running on Grit: Missoula Women Hit the Trails

This is Missoula and the women here run.

Women can be surprisingly stubborn. For good or for bad, we tend to stick to our guns.

So how does a woman get to be so physically tough? Anecdotally I can say: mental grit.

Those who succeed believe they can and they chose the path to get there. When it gets hard, they stop talking and they keep walking.

Suffering together under a common purpose brings people together on a deeper level that cannot be achieved in any other way.

I’m telling you, you can.

We meet Fridays, 6:30pm in the M trailhead parking lot. Tell yourself you can.

Run Your Park