Montana Trail Crew

Jim Walmsley approaches the top of Mount Sentinel on Monday. Photo credit: Myke Hermsmeyer.

Jim Walmsley has been back in Montana, racing at the Bridger Ridge Run and beating his Mount Sentinel Hill Climb course record outside the race.

But did the former Black Eagle resident, who now lives in Arizona, set an FKT on Missoula’s iconic mountain?

Photographer Myke Hermsmeyer, who has been documenting Walmsley’s runs, was back in the state as well and contributes to this week’s Trail Shots.

At Saturday’s Bridger Ridge Run, Walmsley was the fastest man in just over 3 hours 14 minutes. The course is roughly 20 miles, depending on the route runners take down from Bozeman’s “M,” with 6,800 feet of elevation gain and 9,500 feet of loss.

Walmsley told Montana Trail Crew’s Jimmy Grant he was unsure of the course on an unmarked section - the double fall-line descent from Sacagawea Peak - so he turned back and waited for the second-place runner.

Back in June, Walmsley drew a lot of attention after running most of the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run at record pace, before being swept downriver then running off-course and finishing in 20th.

Bozeman’s Chase Parnell was second at just over 3:28, which bodes well for his upcoming Run Rabbit Run 100-mile race.

On the women’s side, Bozeman’s Kaitlin Macdonald finished in just over 4:00.

The top three men and women:

2016 Bridger Ridge Run men’s results

1. Jim Walmsley, Flagstaff, AZ, 3:14:03
2. Chase Parnell, Bozeman, 3:28:17
3. Rogan Brown, Ketchum, ID, 3:32:11

Kaitlin Macdonald on her way to first place at the Bridger Ridge Run. Photo credit: Myke Hermsmeyer

2016 Bridger Ridge Run women’s results

1. Kaitlin Macdonald, Bozeman, 4:00:26
2. Emily Hannah, Steamboat Springs, CO, 4:05:19
3. Anja Gruber, Ketchum, ID, 4:06:17

Jim Walmsley rests after his run up Mount Sentinel on Monday. Photo credit: Myke Hermsmeyer.

Mount Sentinel FKT?

Two days after the Ridge Run, Walmsley made his way back to Missoula, where he set the Sentinel Hill Climb course record of 19:52 in 2014.

In 90-degree heat Monday, he ran the course in 19:45, reaching the “M” in 6:06, Hermsmeyer wrote on Instagram and Facebook.

The posts prompted a discussion about whether Walmsley set an FKT up Mount Sentinel.

The race from the trailhead at the bottom of the mountain, up the “M” Trail then the northwest ridge to the top covers about 1.6 miles and 2,000 feet of elevation gain.

While Walmsley beat his record Monday, some noted that former University of Montana runners David Morris and Scott McGowan were both known for their speed up Sentinel, the course start has changed and record-keeping hasn’t been the best.

"The course has had different start lines over the years," Tim Mosbacher wrote. "David Morris started on campus for his time of 20:02 in 1994. His time from the bottom gate was ~19:15."

Morris is a former U.S. marathon record holder and still has the UM 1,500-meter record, and McGowan was Montana’s first sub-4:00 miler.

Cynthia Arnold of Polson holds the women’s Sentinel Hill Climb record at 24:10, set during this year’s race. She held the previous record at 24:29, from the same 2014 race as Walmsley’s record.

Here’s the MTC guide to the Sentinel Hill Climb.

Jess Zephyrs stands on top of Mount Siyeh in Glacier National Park. Photo credit: Dan Stone

More Trail Shots

Jess Zephyrs and Dan Stone summited 10,000-foot Mount Siyeh between Siyeh Bend and Sunrift Gorge while in Glacier National Park last weekend, encountering two grizzly bears near the top.

“The Siyeh Pass Trail is fantastic but can get busy mid-day on the weekend,” Stone wrote.

Jennifer Grigg, below the lookout on St. Mary Peak. Photo credit: Justin Grigg

Training for The Rut 11K, Jennifer Grigg went up St. Mary Peak in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness on Sunday. The stats - just over 7 miles and 2,400 feet of gain between 7,000 and 9,300 feet - closely match the 11K.

Cody Lind and Brittany Peterson make their way down Donaldson Peak. Photo credit: Nate Bender

Where did you run last weekend?

Maybe you summited a couple of mountains close to home. Or you drove a little and went up a super-steep ridge. Or you and a group of friends camped and did a classic loop in a national park.

Or maybe you set the second fastest known time to the top of all nine 12,000-foot peaks in the state next door, with one of your partners claiming the women’s FKT.

That’s what Missoula’s Nate Bender did.

Bender, Brittany Peterson of Boise and Cody Lind of Challis completed the Idaho 12ers in 37 hours 44 minutes between Friday evening and Sunday morning.

Bender has known Lind for several years and met Peterson, who holds the women's 50K record at the River of No Return Endurance Runs, this summer.

“I'd heard about the challenge originally about five years ago while working as a raft guide on the Middle Fork of the Salmon (River), and my original motivation was pretty simple - do it just to prove how tough I was to other guides that I looked up to,” Bender wrote. “As the years went on and I became more familiar with what the challenge would actually require, though, it became more about getting to do something very difficult and rewarding in a part of the country that I'd spent a lot of time in and had come to love.”

Nate Bender, Cody Lind and Brittany Peterson celebrate after completing the Idaho 12ers. Photo credit: Paul Lind

The three, who were crewed by Paul Lind and Lyn VanSchoiack, started with 12,009-foot Hyndman Peak in the Pioneer Range about 5 p.m. Friday. Then they drove to the Lost River Range and traversed Borah Peak (12,662), Mount Idaho (12,065), Leatherman Peak (12,228), Mount Church (12,200), Donaldson Peak (12,023), Mount Breitenbach (12,140) and Lost River Mountain (12,078) in the Lost River Range between Friday night and Saturday night. They finished with Diamond Peak (12,197) a little before 7 a.m. Sunday after driving to the Lemhi Range.

In all, they covered about 42 miles with 26,000 feet of elevation gain. Of that, 28 miles was off-trail class 3 to 4 ridgeline scrambling, Bender wrote.

“The hardest part was negotiating the loose, endless scree in the Lost River Range, especially Saturday afternoon when we were all feeling the miles and lack of sleep. ... I remember coming off the Lost Rivers Saturday night and literally feeling myself falling asleep on my feet,” Bender wrote.

After a couple of weeks of rest, Bender will run The Rut 50K in Big Sky, then he's running his first 100-mile race, the Mountain Lakes 100 in Oregon. He plans to finish the year with the Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim run in the Grand Canyon with friends in November.

“That should be a great way to cap off the year.”

Read more in Peterson’s trip report here.

Here are the rest of this week’s Trail Shots:

Ross Carlson runs the trail between Dawson and Pitamakan passes in Glacier National Park. Photo credit: Erin Clark

Erin Clark, Ross Carlson, Jessica Zephyrs, Jen von Sehlen, Vo von Sehlen, Sally Cannata and Milton Zhinin celebrated this week’s centennial of the National Park Service early with a classic loop in Glacier.

After camping in St. Mary on Saturday night, they ran the Dawson-Pitamakan Loop on Sunday in the Two Medicine area. The day “delivered bluebird skies and nearly unending ridgeline views,” Clark wrote.

Gray Wolf Peak is seen behind the ridge up East Saint Marys Peak. Photo credit: Ethan Richards

Ethan Richards, Christi Nowak and Henry Reich were among the latest the make the super-steep climb up East Saint Marys Peak in the Mission Mountains.

The ridge rises 4,300 feet in the first two miles - ouch.

“Hard to get a sense of scale when looking at photos of the Mission Mountains, which rise nearly 7,000 feet above the Mission Valley. This shot gives you just an inkling,” Ethan Richards wrote.

Craig Macholz and Dana Bandy leave the summit of Lolo Peak. Photo credit: Justin Grigg

Dana Bandy, Craig Macholz and I finished the weekend Sunday with a 13-mile out-and-back up Lolo Peak, at the north end of the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness.

That and Saturday’s 26-mile loop out to Sheep Mountain in the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area got us up above the haze of wildfire smoke around Missoula.

Bonecrusher Ridge - Credit: Myke Hermsmeyer

This weekend Big Sky Resort plays host to the greatest mountain running event in North America. With some of the most technical and aesthetic courses found anywhere, there is plenty of terrain to challenge the world's elite and locals alike. Add to that a credible threat of rain and snow, and this year's Rut should be one to remember.

Weather can get dicey at 11,000 - Credit: Myke Hermsmeyer

Put on by Missoula's Runners Edge, The Rut is spread out over three days and consists of a 50K, 28K, 11K, VK, and the Rut Runt Run 1K. Bryon Powell at Irunfar--a go-to source for international trail running coverage--assembled an in-depth preview of this Saturday's 28K field. Take a look and you'll get a sense of the throw-down about to happen on Lone Peak. The 50K is just as deep with top athletes from around the world descending on the Treasure State. If you can't be there, consider following along with Irunfar's live coverage or via twitter: #RunTheRut, We might even post some race day photos on our facebook and twitter feed @MontanaTrailC.

To supplement all this coverage and give a shout out to our locals, here are a few Montana "dark horses" who'll be competing against some of the world's best for a top finish in the 28K:
Forrest Boughner, Missoula... Winner of 2016 Sentinel Hill Climb, runner-up at 2016 Pengelly Double Dip.
Ted Farley, Bozeman... 5th at 2015 Rut 50K.
Amy Friedman, Missoula... Podium finishes in a handful of MT races over the past year, 6th at 2015 Power of Four 50K,
Kaitlin Macdonald, Bozeman... 2-time Bridger Ridge Run Champ, 2nd at 2013 Rut 50K
Johannes Middleton, Bozeman... 2016 Old Gabe 50K Champ, 2nd at 2015 Devil's Backbone 50
Lynn Reynolds, Dillon... former UM Griz standout in track and XC, sub-9 steeple, course record holder at Wulfman's CDT 14K.
Henry Reich, Missoula... 2015 Pengelly Double Dip Champ.

The Rut 50K - Credit: Myke Hermsmeyer

Montanans to keep an eye out for in the 50K incude:
Alan Adams, Missoula... 3rd at 2016 Bighorn 50k, 6th at 2013 Rut 50K
Peder Anderson, Bozeman... 2nd at 2016 Devil's Backbone 50, 2014 Bridger Ridge Run Champ.
Rhea Black, Missoula... 11th at 2015 Rut 50K
Jesse Carnes, Missoula... 13th at 2015 Rut 50K
Jason Delaney, Polson... 2012 Pikes Peak Ascent Champ, 3rd at 2013 Pikes Peak Marathon, 13th at 2014 Rut 50K
Anya Gue, Missoula... 3rd at 2015 Bighorn 50, 9th at 2015 Rut 50K
Brendan Halpin, Missoula... 5th at 2016 Old Gabe 50K, 10th at 2013 Bootlegger 50K
Emily Kipp, Missoula... 3rd at 2016 Old Gabe 50K
Emily Linton, Missoula... 2015 Devil's Backbone 50 Champ, 4th at 2013 Rut 50K
Kristina Pattison, Missoula... 4th at 2015 Rut 50K, numerous top-10 finishes in mountain races throughout the world.
Christi Richards, Missoula... Winner of numerous ultras, including 2016 Old Gabe 50K
Ethan Richards, Missoula... 3rd at 2016 Old Gabe 50K, 2015 Le Grizz Champ
Justin Svec, Billings... 2015 Bighorn 50K Champ.

There are probably a bunch of Montana runners who'll I missed that'll crush The Rut course. There always is. Check out our previews from each year of the event to see more. Good luck to everyone competing this weekend!
2013 Preview
2014 Preview
2015 Preview

There's this guy too. Whitefish native-turned-Alaskan Matt Shryock has made his mark on The Rut over the years. He'll be racing the 50K again and might even win the thing - Credit: Myke Hermsmeyer

23 miles into the Beaverhead Endurance Run 55K. Photo Credit: Brian Phillips

Katie Benzel, from Dillon, overcame injury and placed 2^nd overall at the Beaverhead 55k. She started focused training just 7 months prior to the race with her longest run of only 6 miles. Discover more about Katie, her passion for the outdoors, and how she gained confidence finishing the longest race of her life while dealing with hamstring and lower back nerve pain.

Please reveal a little bit about yourself.

Growing up in Montana through the present, running, hiking, backpacking, skiing, and hunting in the mountains have been a core part of my life. As a middle schooler, I would take off running through the alfalfa fields and foothills or backpack into the hills from our house and campout with my yellow lab. My family spent most weekends in the summer backpacking, a passion I carried into the rest of my life, including backpacking across Montana when I was 22 years old. I got into distance running when I was eleven. I ran track and cross country, earning the Beaverhead County High School two mile record and was the Montana Class A State Cross Country champion my junior year of high school. After fund raising in the supportive community of Dillon, I traveled to Fresno, CA to compete in the Foot Locker Cross Country Western Regionals that winter, which was an incredible experience with the fastest high schoolers in the western states. I decided not to compete in college and instead kept running for myself without the pressure of competition. Running and spending time in the mountains have been a constant in my life that I am so grateful for. They help me not only physically, but mentally and emotionally, and in every other aspect of my life. My love of the outdoors inspired me to become a wildlife biologist. It’s a challenging but rewarding career, driven by my belief that public lands are crucial.

My brother, Cody, and me with my running buddy in training, Monty, still exploring the mountains of southwest Montana like we have since we were kids.

How did you progress from running a long run of 6 miles in January to placing 2^nd overall woman at Beaverhead 55k?

After struggling with injury over the last four years, I increased my mileage gradually leading up to the 55K. I focused on a more balanced approach, listening to my body, which meant learning to have patience and remembering my main goal was to avoid getting injured and running in the long-term. Along with running I also cross trained and took time to stretch, viewing it as an important aspect of training not to be skipped. Training for the 55K took discipline and dedication. I made training a priority, juggling around my work schedule and personal life to put in the miles.

2^nd place female finisher of Beaverhead Endurance Run 55K. Photo Credit: Brian Phillips

You mentioned you had hamstring nerve and lower back nerve pain since 2012 that was making it at times challenging to train. How did you overcome this challenge and how did you gain the confidence to train and complete this race?

This injury kept me from running two marathons when the pain became too excrutiating during training. I took a year off from running, which honestly made me feel lost without it! The break from running didn’t do anything to help my injury. I’m determined to run as long as I possibly can, so finding answers was a priority. It flared up training for the 55K. Luckily I discovered prolozone therapy a couple months ago, which has made a huge difference. That along with occasional chiropractic adjustments, massage, foam rolling, and stretching have made it more manageable for training. Running The Rut 28K last September came at a time when I needed it to remind myself of what I’m made of. It changed my perspective on taking on challenges like this, giving me confidence to try a 55K, when I’d thought that distance was crazy!

Climbing Lone Peak during The Rut 28K in 2015. Photo Credit: Angela Brown

What advice do you have for runners who are struggling with injuries?

My advice for runners struggling with injury is to believe you will heal. It’s easy to become discouraged and frustrated. Your heart and head want to run, but your body is struggling. Overcoming an injury is definitely a time and financial commitment. I had many points when I felt like I’d never find an answer. I was willing to try anything and everything if it meant I could run long distances pain-free! That mentality didn’t come without critics either. Some people who aren’t runners couldn’t understand why I just didn’t hang up my running shoes. I couldn’t accept that and believed I would figure out a way to keep something that I’m so passionate about in my life.

My dog Luie has been my mountain buddy for nearly 15 years. He even backpacked across Montana with me in 2003. Photo Credit: Brian Phillips

What is one thing you do to get motivated?

I guess I don’t have anything specific I do to get motivated on most days, but there are times when it’s harder to get out the door than others. Listening to music on a run helps. If I’m feeling lazy I try to remind myself that I get to go for a run. I remind myself to have gratitude for all that my body enables me to do. There are people who aren’t able to run who would like to, so for me, running is an opportunity and a blessing, especially in the mountains.

Mountain climbing with my family.

What is something beautiful you see every day? The mountains!

Katie’s passion for nature and the outdoors is contagious. Your dedication and perseverance to finishing your goal race despite obstacles is inspiring.

Nicole

The past few weeks in Montana running have been marked by dark mornings and cooler temps. There is fresh snow on top of most of our high peaks. But fall is still the best time of year to get out and enjoy the Montana landscape. In this edition of MTC News we look back at the Rut Mountain Runs and look forward to some of our favorite fall activities:

Former Bozeman resident Corrine Malcolm ascending one of the many muddy spots in the 2016 Rut 50K.
Credit: Myke Hermsmeyer

The Rut:

I missed The Rut this year, but by all accounts it made for another amazing weekend of Mountain Running in Big Sky. Although there were some solid performances in all of the distances, the star of this year's show was the weather. With a course that tops out in excess of 11,000 feet, we knew it was bound to happen eventually. For the first time, race organizers adjusted The Rut VK and 50K to avoid the iconic Lone Mountain summit and the grueling Bone Crusher Ridge. The 50K lost a couple miles and a few thousand vertical feet, but added plenty of mud and even some snow to make things interesting. Full results are available here. And be sure to head over to the MTC Facebook Page to check out some of the great shots that Myke Hermsmeyer posted of your fellow Montana athletes.

Big Bear Stampede:

Last weekend's Big Bear Stampede in Gardiner featured 5K and 9K trail runs on the edge of Yellowstone National Park. What may be the best feature of this event is the slide finish of the kids run. We gotta get something like this for the big kid races! Results here.

Orange Street Trailhead Parking Closure:

Yesterday's Missoulian included a story about the upcoming construction project to improve the Orange Street on-ramp to I-90. As part of the project, the Orange Steet Trailhead parking lot will be closed for a few weeks. The trail, which we adopted and has been the subject of much of our trail work over the past couple of years will remain open, but you'll need to get there on foot. The good news is that the end result of this project promises to be a welcome addition for trail users by providing a paved parking area separated from the flow of traffic. The timing of this improvement is perfect. Once the parking lot is done we'll be able to focus our attention on some important trail work improvements to the trailhead. With any luck our trailhead improvements will be in place by next summer. So stay connected with MTC to see how you can help out.

National Public Lands Day

Speaking of volunteering... on September 24th, in honor of National Public Lands Day, our friends at Five Valleys Land Trust are organizing a work day on the South Hills Spur of Mount Dean Stone. They're recruiting volunteers to help out with some fuels reduction work, while providing the opportunity to experience some of the lands that are subject to the organization's most recent open space preservation effort. Run Wild Missoula has committed thousands of dollars to land acquisition there and MTC is committed to helping out with this project in any way we can. Attending this work day is a great place to start. To get involved, send an email to admin@montanatrailcrew.com so we can pass along a rough estimate of participants to Five Valleys. The plan is to get a group to meet at 9am at The Keep Restaurant and carpool up to the work site. The work will involve slash piling so they ask volunteers to bring work gloves, water, and a hand saw if you have one. Five Valleys will provide snacks and lunch. It promises to be a worthwhile effort.

Mountain Running Film Festival

Speaking of public lands, we're stoked to announce that Montana's original running film festival--the Mountain Running Film Festival--is back for a fourth consecutive year at the iconic Wilma Theater! This year's festival will be a true celebration of public lands, as we've coordinated with RWM to make a trail running weekend out of it! On Saturday, November 5th, run the Elk Ramble 15K Trail Run on Missoula's Mount Jumbo open space and then plan to come out that evening for the Montana running community's biggest party of the year with 900 of your favorite training partners. If you made it out to the film festival last year you quickly realized that the Wilma's recent renovations provide a world class experience, from unbeatable sound to two strategically positioned bars stocked with local microbrews. We still have plenty of planning to do, but expect films featuring local athletes and local landscapes, along with some of the year's best international productions. As always, we'll be giving away products from our sponsors and hopefully be featuring some live mountain music to set the mood! So mark your calendars now! November 5th! The full event announcement will be appearing in the coming weeks.

Nate Bender and Forrest Boughner on their run to McLeod Peak with Kristina Pattison. Photo credit: Kristina Pattison

With The Rut Mountain Runs behind us, Missoulians are getting back to some familiar territory - though sometimes on different routes.

Take, for example, Montana Trail Crew’s Kristina Pattison, Forrest Boughner and Nate Bender, who were in the Rattlesnake Wilderness last weekend.

The three started on the trail to Finley Lakes outside Arlee and topped McLeod Peak - the highest in the Rattlesnake at 8,620 feet. Pattison turned back there, while Boughner and Bender continued along ridges down to Sanders Lake and up to Mosquito and Stuart peaks, then came out Spring Gulch.

It made for a long 26-mile day, Boughner said.

Here are more of your Trail Shots:

Snow-capped peaks beyond Gunsight Lake. Photo credit: Ehan Richards

Ethan and Christi Richards put together a weekend of running in Glacier National Park recently, crossing the 20-mile Gunsight Pass Trail west to east, from Lake McDonald Lodge to Sunrift Gorge.

They also ran to Scalpock Lookout, Scenic Point and most of the trail to Numa Ridge Lookout before encountering a bear.

Milton Zhinin descends the boulders from Ch-paa-qn. Photo credit: Jesse Carnes

Milton Zhinin and Jesse and Kailee Carnes had an “excellent rock-hopping session” recently on a sunny afternoon run up the trail to Ch-paa-qn, Jesse Carnes wrote.

The Rut Mountain Runs 50K flags on a snowy Headwaters Ridge. Photo credit: John Fiore

Finally, for those of you wondering about all of the flags left on Headwaters Ridge and Lone Peak after foul weather forced a course change at The Rut 50K, some of them were pulled th next morning.

Before leaving Big Sky, John Fiore decided to see the conditions on Headwaters firsthand.

Kevin Twidwell and medical director Margaret Menendez – Votography Images

This month meet Kevin Twidwell, former Pengelly volunteer race director for 4 years. Kevin along with other Run Wild Missoula (RWM) volunteers and current Race Director Jamie Swartz have transformed Pengelly Double Dip into one of the most competitive and popular trail races in Montana.

Can you reveal a bit about yourself and the role you held during your four years as Pengelly race director?

I was part of the Missoula Youth Homes Committee that inherited an earlier version of the Pengelly races from the Five Valleys Land Trust. The committee changed the course to make it more “epic” by adding the haul up to the University beacon, and that has become the hallmark and most-touted portion of the Double Dip. It is really tough but that’s what makes the race so fun. For years, some nutty friends (Rick Wishcamper, Dean McGovern and Lisa Weinrich) and I swept the course in costume just to add some goofiness to the event. A few years ago, I was asked to be the race director, and it was a genuinely rewarding experience.

The climb up to the M. Photo by the Missoulian

Please tell the history of Pengelly and something unique about the race?

The Double Dip (13.1 miles) is limited to 200 runners because it crosses US Forest Service land, and in the past few years, the race has quickly reached its limit. Part of the appeal, I think, is the toughness of the course, the fact that it is well organized, and the fact that it is an early Spring run. The races, including the Single Dip, a 10-k, draw people from all over Western Montana to test themselves against the big climbs and descents. Others tell me the best part of the race is the Tiki bar at the University Beacon where runners get a little margarita as a reward for summiting and as a pain killer for the quad-pounding descent to the Kim Williams trail.

Myke Hermsmeyer photo– On to the beacon

Have you raced Pengelly and how would you rank this course in comparison of other Montana trail races of similar distance?

I have run the course numerous times (marking, sweeping, just goofing off), but I have not actually done the race itself because of my other duties (or injuries). But from what racers have told me, it is one of the most difficult half-marathons you will find anywhere. It is common to have runners swear at me during the race but then thank me at the end when they are finished.

The climb to the Beacon. Photo by Votography Images

What has been the historical involvement of RWM and how has that benefitted the race?

Run Wild Missoula took over management of the races several years ago and has made the race a seamless event. Tony Banovich, RWM executive director, has played an active role in the races, making sure they are properly staffed and meet the group’s goals within the Run Wild structure. RWM is operated by runners who know what makes a great event, and the group’s volunteers make the race possible.

Descending from beacon -- Myke Hermsmeyer

Jamie Swartz is the present race director. How has she added value to the event?

Jamie Swartz took over the RD position in 2016 and has made the races even better. She added a third distance – the Vertical Dip – which is a five-mile race with 2,000 feet of gain from the river to the top of Mount Sentinel and 2,000 feet of descent back to the bottom. It is truly a lung buster. She also switched up the swag the race provides, added additional sponsors, and brought back the Pengelly Hoodie. I am sure she has other great ideas for the future.

How would you spend your ideal day?

My ideal day is going for a run on the trails around Missoula with my pals and my dogs. I love getting above the valley and running into friends on the mountain, catching up for a few minutes and then continuing on the trail. I like to get home with wobbly legs and then have some strong coffee and a hot shower. The rest of the day is just gravy.

Photo by KT – Lunatic the Running Beagle still getting out with a little help
Where do you find inspiration?

So many things inspire me: great views, mountain trails, wildlife, conversations with friends on a run. But I get the most inspiration from my long-time pal, Lunatic the Running Beagle. Before she got too old and developed maladies, we ran hundreds of miles together on the trails around Missoula (and elsewhere) with her braying the entire time. She still wants to go every time I grab my running shoes even though she is now relegated to short walks and being pulled in a little wagon I bought for her. She reminds me that running is fun and we should all howl a bit when we are on the trail.

What is your favorite place on earth?

Glacier National Park . Can’t beat it.

Anyone who does the Double Dip course twice gets a free Super Nova from The Big Dipper. Here, Randy Tanner and John Hart enjoy their reward for doubling up. KT photo

Thank you Kevin, Jamie and RWM for organizing this fun event and creating opportunities for mountain runners.

For more information about the Double Dip, including course maps and past results check outthe race website. Click here for the Marshall Mountain Trail Festival--it's free for everyone and is an amazing time. Finally, for a little bit information on the history of the event from a couple of years back check out this Missoulian articleand MTC’s Jimmy Grant’s 2015 write up of Pengelly.

Nicole

We're busy getting everything in order for the 4th Annual Mountain Running Film Festival taking place at the Wilma Theater on November 5th. It might be the biggest running party in Montana and we hope you'll come out and be part of it. We've lined up some great films again this year, including a few premiers. We invite everyone to make a weekend out of it by running the Mount Jumbo Elk Ramble that same day. The race is filling fast and if that's not motivation enough to take part, you might even be rewarded by being one of the lucky participants to score a Film Festival ticket in your race packet! Full details and ticket sales information coming soon, so check back with MTC.

Above the Clouds - Credit: Justin Grigg (@jjgrigg) via Instagram

Racing News:

Tors des Gents - UM Alumni John Anderson finished as top American in this 200+ mile epic in the Alps. John was my roommate way back in our UM days in the late 1990s. Over the year's I've enjoyed keeping track of his mountain exploits, but he took it to another level with this one. Check out his exceptional race report here.

Two Bear Marathon - As Anderson ran to the clanging of thousands of cowbells, I ran to the sound of raindrops on crisp leaves. What my Two Bear Marathon experience lacked in crowds, it compensated for in solitude, fall colors, and local community support. I spend a lot of time in the Flathead Valley in the summer and try to make it up to Whitefish when I can. When I do, I always try to sneak in a run on the on the ever-expanding Whitefish Trail system that's the site of the Two Bear. The trails are buffed out and the turns are banked with mountain bikes in mind, making for some smooth, albeit challenging, running. As the trail network expanded, the decade-old Two Bear traded forest road for single track. The course is tougher, but scenery is a welcome distraction with bright red huckleberry leaves setting the forest aglow. The course sends you onto pavement for the first time with 10 miles to go. From there runners follow a winding lakeside drive and bike path to complete their marathon loop around Whitefish Lake. If you remeber to save some legs for those last six miles you'll feel like you're flying after the thousands of vertical feet of climb and descent you encountered in the early going. Post race is what you'd expect with the Montana trail scene: home brew, a local BBQ feast, and plenty of friendly faces. There are cow bells here, too, with one coming in every race packet. To put a Montana twist on the cowbell experience, once your support crew is dome clanging they can swap the swap their cowbell for a free pint of post-race beer! Full results here.

Bear 100 – This classic 100 is always a draw for Montana runners and this year we were well represented. With a nasty mix of rain, snow, and mud, it goes without saying that nobody in the race would match the course record set back in 2013 by former Missoulian Chris Kollar. In fact, the weather proved to be enough of a factor that the race directors altered the course. Despite all the challenges, a number of Montana runners battled on to record solid finishes including: Steve Liechty of Victor in 8^th; Milton Zhinin-Barreto of Missoula in 15^th; Curtis Adams of Helena in 61^st; Mike Talia of Helena in 126^th; and Charlie Sperry of Boulder in 129^th. Former Missoulians John Fitzgerald, Jed Rogers, and Hannah Riedl also recorded finishes. Full Results.

Margie Menendez jumping for joy at the Blue Mountain 30K - Credit: Tommi Burton via Facebook

Blue Mountain 30K– 100 runners enjoyed their coveted spots in this Runners Edge trail run that takes place in its namesake National Recreation Area. This event is an immediate sell-out every year and from a look at the smiling faces in post-race photos, most went home happy. If you’re unfamiliar with the Blue Mountain trail system, I’d suggest you give this race a shot sometime. It’s one of my favorite places to train, especially in winter. Come January when many other trails are snowed in, trails there are passable. Winter also gives Blue a suprisingly remote feel and an added sense of challenge, especially after a fresh dusting of snow. In this year’s event, Brian Story and Nicole Hunt took the wins. Full results here.

Whitefish Trail Run - With distances from 5K to half marathon, this event takes place on the same trail system that challenges runners in the Two Bear Marathon. Kalispell’s Michal Mazacek and Polson’s Jenni Brown took the half marathon wins. Complete results here.

Le Grizz Ultramarathon - For the third time in its 34 year history, Le Grizz followed the North Fork of the Flathead River as opposed to its original South Fork course. The new route skirts Glacier National Park and guarantees finishers the added reward of a huckleberry bear claw at the Polebridge Mercantile. For the second year in a row, Missoula’s Christi Richards took top honors among women. Her speedy sub-7:00 time was also good enough to ensure that she came across the line first of all finishers. Gwendal Le Tutour from Sandpoint, Idaho, came in first among men. Full results here.

Coming Up:

Trail Work Location

Trail Work Party - On THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20th, we will need some volunteers to help get plants back into the ground to help those disturbed and distressed areas recover and be competitive against the aggressive nature of weeds. We will be planting seed and plugs and need some hands to get the work done. Come out and join us for a couple hours.

Where: We will meet at the Orange St Trailhead

When: Thursday, October 20th: 5:00-7:00 pm (or sooner if we work fast)

What to bring: Appropriate clothes and work gloves, we'll supply the necessary tools, plants, and seed.

What if I get hungry or thirsty? As always, we will finish up with pizza and beer after the work is complete.

To sign up follow this link.

Mountain Running Film Festival– Check back later on Friday for details on this year’s Mountain Running Film Festival.

Montana Cup– Consider testing your late season speed by representing your city at this all-comers cross country meet taking place on October 29^th in Bozeman. It’s always tough, it’s always a great time, and Team Missoula always wins. Sign up before October 16^thand only pay $12 if you own your own jersey. It’s one of the best deals in running.

As always, if you have a news item to share send an email to admin@montanatrailcrew.com. -jg

Mike Foote runs in the Bass Creek drainage of the Bitterroot Mountains. Photo credit: Forrest Boughner

It’s officially fall in Montana.

The huckleberry leaves have long been bright red, the larch are going golden, snow is dusting the high country and daylight is fading.

Trail runners are still getting into the hills, but as the elements begin to keep us closer to home Trail Shots will be slowing for the season. We’re not going away - just posting a little less often through winter.

Nonetheless, we’ll be watching to share your adventures. Here are some of the highlights from recent weeks:

At top, Forrest Boughner and Mike Foote went on a midweek run recently up to Bass Lake in the Bitterroot Mountains, where snow was collecting high on the rocky ridgelines.

Kailee Carnes stands silhouetted next to a cairn on Lincoln Peak in Glacier National Park. Photo credit: Jesse Carnes

Kailee and Jesse Carnes ran Gunsight Pass in Glacier National Park, covering 24 miles with detours to Florence Falls, the end of the trail to Jackson Glacier and up 7,450-foot Lincoln Peak.

Allison Onstad climbs toward Holland Peak in the Swan Range. Photo credit: John Fiore

Allison Onstad and John Fiore enjoyed a sunny day up Holland Peak in the Swan Range - with no one else around.

Margie Menendez surrounded by fall colors in the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area. Photo credit: Margie Menendez

And finally, Margie Menendez found fall’s finest colors above Spring Gulch on the trail to Stuart Peak in the Rattlesnake Recreation Area.

The Wilma and Montana Trail Crew Present

The 4th Annual Mountain Running Film Festival

2016 Mountain Running Film Festival Poster by Myke Hermsmeyer.
Image features Jim Walmsley at the 2016 Bridger Ridge Run

Where: The Wilma, Missoula, Montana

When: November 5, 2016 @ 7:00 (Doors and Live Bluegrass at 6:00)

Cost: $10 Advance/$12 Door

Tickets: Available at The Wilma Box Office or online.

Montana Trail Crew, a non-profit trail running and open space advocacy organization, invites you to come down to the Wilma Theater for our 4th 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.

We'll be opening things up with live bluegrass music before screening this year's selection the best trail and mountain running films found anywhere, including video shorts and feature films from Montana and beyond. Stick around for a chance to win products from one of our many generous sponsors and head home knowing that event proceeds are going toward improving the local trails we love.

We're proud to partner with Run Wild Missoula to make a weekend out of it, with the Mount Jumbo Elk Ramble 15K Trail Run taking place on Saturday morning. As a special incentive to get runners signed up for this event, 100 lucky race entrants will receive a complimentary film festival ticket at random in their race packet. The Elk Ramble is filling fast, so sign up and make this a fitting farewell to another great season of Montana trail running.

This year's selections include both feature films and shorts set in stunning locations throughout the Rocky Mountains, with several shot right here in Montana. Expect to see familiar faces as local filmmakers and members of the Montana running community grace the big screen. With any luck we might even have a few of this year's stars in attendance. Check back with Montana Trail Crew in the coming weeks as we roll out this year's film line-up!

The 2016 Mountain Running Film Festival is brought to you by Altra Footwear, Runners Edge, Garlington, Lohn & Robinson, Good Food Store, Momentum Athletic Training, Trail 103.3, and Run Wild Missoula

The Late Pete Sorini"beloved neurosurgeon" and Gina Evans

During my long run on CDT Pipestone, I met Gina Evans. Gina said if I ever wanted to run point-to-point she would drop me off and pick me up with the option of including water drops and a sack lunch. With hundreds of miles of trails to explore, her offer was intriguing. Gina combines her passion for the outdoors and her adventurous spirit to create Linked Adventures.

What is Linked Adventures?

Linked Adventures is a mountain bike rental & shuttle company located in Butte, Montana, with destinations & routes in Southwest Montana. We're also a hiking & running shuttle service. Customers can be as creative as they want with the route they would like shuttled or take one suggested on our website: www.linkedadventures.com

If renting a mountain bike I deliver it personally to your hotel, or if from Butte's surrounding communities I can meet you at the Butte Chamber Of Commerce.

What inspired you to create Linked Adventures?

My most loved & missed friend Pete Sorini (editors note – Pete, a neurosurgeon, recently passed away from a Glioblastoma multiform brain tumor) & I used to ride once a week together. At some point during those rides, conversation would turn to "how can we get more time to enjoy what we see & have in this awesome back yard." "Where to today" is what Pete would say when he picked me up. Now Linked Adventures can give that option to anyone.

I am also the Race Director for the Butte 100 [Mountain Bike] Races, now going into my 11th year. Our trail system covers miles & miles which allows for a 100 mile race, where those participating don't see anything twice, with many more miles to explore that are not on the race route.

Seeing the distance some racers travel to race in the "Most difficult race in the country" I want to be able to promote Butte as a recreation destination. Linked Adventures allows not only for promotion but actually experiencing our back yard biking, running, or hiking.

Curly Lake Loop Group Ride in the Tobacco Roots

What trail routes would you recommend for runners?

Any of the Continental Divide Trails surrounding Butte. A key would be knowing your fitness level & experience. If into ultra-endurance routes, I would suggest starting at the Highlands (run on the Pete Sorini Adopt-a-Trail. I was the leader in getting this dedicated for Pete) once you run down Lime Kiln to Harding Way (Pipestone Pass/12 mile option) continue following over to Homestake (20 mile option). Once you exit, run over the overpass to CDT Nez Perce, you can opt to drop down Maude S or once near Lady of Rockies (50k option) descend down the road to Woodeville exit on I-15. (50 mile option) Or continue to Nez Perce (62 mile option). Stop there unless you want more & run to Sheepshead via dirt road & go to Konda Ranch CDT over to Champion Pass (~90 mile point-to-point option).

You can run endless amounts of miles with many other trailheads & doubletrack options along the way.

For the beginning runner, Thompson Park has 26 miles of trail with maps & well marked junctions.

North of Homestake, the Tobacco Roots have many more miles I can send runners on.

(I was the head of the mountain bike safety patrol for Ghosts of Yellowstone 100 in Tobacco Roots in its first year)

What is your vision for Linked Adventures?

I have the only shuttle company in Southwest Montana. Being able to operate year round. Insurance costs a lot. Smart growth is key.

I see my company expanding to winter sports such as cross country skiing, fat bikes, & snow shoes.

Gina transports cyclists and runners and envisions expanding to winter sports

Describe the greatest adventure of your life.

Every time I'm able to get out for a ride. I was victim of a hit & run by a truck at 50 mph. (while on my bike) in 2010. The passenger side mirror was ripped off by my shoulder & left at the scene.

I now have PTSD and went through over a year straight of migraines. I need to watch brain fatigue or my headaches ramp up. Peace is found on any trail with my bike or hiking with my dog Fenway & or Mac & Elliot (Sorini Pups are my buddies).

What I hope was my last surgery took place on October of 2015. With many rides in the future, I created my favorite 4 letter word. "LIFE” (my own quote).

What are 3 to 5 words that describe and/or inspire you and why?

Believe.... Any journey, battle, or dream. The belief of getting through or being successful starts with yourself.

Imaginative... Don't follow, create your own path.

Supportive... I've had some very special people in my life who assisted in getting me where I am today. My family, doctors, priests & friends.

Pay it forward all I can.

A bumper decal on Gina’s truck reads Carpe Diem (seize the day). With the creation of Linked Adventures, Gina is helping others do just that. For more information see www.linkedadventures.com
-Nicole

Linked Adventures is headquarters for mountain bike rentals, shuttle transportation, route planning, and full adventure planning for groups in the greater Butte and surrounding southwest Montana. Including the Continental Divide Trail and other stunning terrain.

Brian on a suspension bridge Hokitika Gorge, South Island, NZ.

Brian Wieck is race director for over 7 trail races. He's passionate about trail racing and exploring new places, so during the Montana winter he travels to destinations such as New Zealand and Hawaii. Brian moved to Montana in spring of 2003 after moving around to cities like Spokane, Eugene, and Scottsdale. “I wanted a place to call home and after a short (job) visit in the summer of '99 to Montana I decided to return for its people, trails, and opportunity to create some visions.” In 2003, Wieck moved to Helena and purchased a tiny house. “I bought the worst place in the best location; it had a tree growing out of the floor in the laundry room. I have always lived simply and having a home should not change that. I bought it with the intention of escaping the winters.” During the colder Montana months, Brian resides in Arizona. “I constructed a kitchen in my parent’s one stall garage that I live in,” he explains. After his dog died (Coolest Visula) in 2013 Brian has ventured out of country in search of destinations allow for hiking/running and south of the equator. This passion for exploration and adventure has led him found BQuick Running.

What motivated you to move to Montana and become a race director for over 7 trail races?

I moved to the Montana, because I love trails and trail running, I put on my first race in AZ, because in '97 I started racing Ultras. After a 4 year learning curve I realized I might be good at 50ks mainly because there was not much out there under that distance, so in 2001 I created the Pemberton Trail 50k. To date it is the oldest 50k in AZ. After moving to Helena in 2003 I could see that trail running was getting more popular so in 2005 I created (SHATS) South Hills Annual Trail Series (4 races over 3 months). I chose my venues because of the beauty of the surroundings. I then added Thunderbolt Creek 30k in 2010 and Big Dipper 10 miler and 5k as a fall road race with 3 miles of trail in the 10 miler. It’s a tour of Helena. This year I am adding a 25k/50k in Lolo, Montana, called Infinity.

Goats in the Meadow Trail Race

Describe three trail races you organize.

The Night 5k (Goats in the Dark) SHATS race is becoming a favorite because of the 80 glow sticks you follow while running on Mt Helena and the local beer and bonfire at my house afterwards. Pemberton Trail 25k-50k always draws an escape-from-winter crowd in February. Since its inception over 17 years ago, I have had almost all 50 states represented. I really like the Thunderbolt Creek 30k as there are not many places where you can run anymore where there is no cell service. The race traverses part of the CDT trail and is adjacent to water most of the way, which makes for a special venue. (Editor’s note-In 2015, I camped out the night before the Thunderbolt race and ran to the start. This single track trail winds through breathtaking wildflower meadows and lush conifer forests. One of my favorite running adventures of the year was racing and exploring this beautiful area).

Race Finish Goats in the Meadow PC: Unknown

What are a few of your proudest race achievements?

I had the honor of helping start up the Carroll College X-Country program with friend Bill Ballinger in 2007, and in 2008 I helped coach the first runner ever to go to nationals. A personal achievement is winning Ice Breaker 5 miler in 2004 (and buying my washer and dryer with the prize money) and winning the Elkhorn 50k (4) times which was my first 50k win.

As a race director, what is your vision for trail racing in Montana?

As a race director my vision for trail racing in Montana is that we keep the growth of the sport smart; everybody knows that Montana is beautiful and wild and as race directors we have the ability to show locals and out-of-country/stater's why what we have is precious. Our window of trail racing in Montana is small but our impact on the sport is big.

Goats in the Dark- a trail race run in the dark. PC Mike Champman

If you were asked to describe yourself in 4 words what would those words be?

Kind, Energetic, Creative and Fun

Have you ever had a “now or never moment”?

I have learned that life is timing and as long as I keep moving forward that great moments happen even when at that time you didn't know it was a great moment.

What is your favorite quote?

"Everywhere is within walking distance if you have the time" -Steven Wright

I am excited to race Brian’s newest race -the Infinity 25k and 50k in Lolo. Thanks Brian for creating novel racing opportunities on beautiful trails. For more information about Brian see Bquickrunning.com

Brian's Teepee

Brian's Tiny House in Helena

Treasure State Trail Runners group run; celebrity edition. PC: Marilee Woyth

Kam Kidrick, age 40, resides in Great Falls has been running for about six years. Kam has been working on building a larger community of runners in the Great Falls region so he created a trail running group called the Treasure State Trail Runners. Kam has 4 children, works construction, loves ultras, adventure running, fast packing, high exposed ridges, mountain tops and wilderness.

What are your passions and hobbies?

My kids, (I have four), I also love music, trivia, and learning and exploring the great state of Montana.

Treasure State Trail Runners Traditional Fourth of July Run. PC: Josiah Badger

What is your vision for the Treasure State Trail Runners running group?

The Treasure State Trail Runners began as a Facebook group I started in Great Falls to tempt people into running with me. It has really blossomed, we have people from all over the state, and beyond; first it is the go to page for all things trail running around Great Falls and North Central Montana. However, as we grow it is also a place to find out about trails and runs around the state. In addition to that, the page is an open place for people to share runs, ask questions, and just network in general. All are welcome to join and share information, just like running the more the merrier.

What do you enjoy most about being outside?

The thing I enjoy most is being free in nature, I love getting into wild country where I feel at one with the forces of the universe.

Adventure Running on The Front. PC: Kam Kidrick

What are 2 or 3 must run trails around the Great Falls Region?

Our local gem is the Rivers Edge Trail, which comprises some of the coolest single track around. The North and South Shore trails each offer stunning views of the river, plenty of coulees for vertical. Magical forests and waterfalls hidden from the prairie above, and can only be experienced by exploring the trails that hug the shores and drain the canyons along the river’s edge. The most popular mountain run is Highwood Baldy, the high-point in this island range offers 3k feet of vertical in just over five miles, and exceptional views to those who can withstand the wind long enough to take them in. The island ranges offer all types of terrain and trails, and while popular among ultra-runners who often end up having the whole area to themselves. The Rocky Mountain Front holds some of the wildest, unique, and beautiful country anywhere on earth.

Prior to Bighorn 100 2015. PC: Josiah Badger

Has running changed your perspective on life and how so?

Hard to put into words the effect running has had on my life. I am not a different person than I was before I began running, but I am a lot closer to being the person whom I want to be.

The Badger Two Medicine Country. PC: Kam Kidrick

Who and what inspires you?

I get inspired by explorers; love the old timers who settled this country, their grit. The CrownTraverse (video in link) really impressed me. My kids inspire me to be a person I would like them to be, my friends inspire me through their achievements. What really gets me off though is pushing myself hard in difficult country. I love exploring wilderness and scrambling up mountains, along ridges, and making it back to work on time Monday morning.

Favorite song

“Imagine” John Lennon (music video in link)

Imagine is one of my favorite songs too. Your zest for adventure and wilderness exploration is inspiring.

Nicole

Part of Montana Trail Crew’s mission, with the support of our parent organization Run Wild
Missoula, is to improve and expand trail running across the state of Montana. To help meet that
mission, we have organized a sub-ultra trail race series utilizing established races throughout
Montana. The Treasure State Trail Series is free to join and is designed for runners of all
abilities. Montana Trail Crew encourages you to take part and explore new races and new trail
across our great state.

Elk Ramble - Credit: Votography Images

The 2017 Treasure State Trail Series is comprised of 12 pre-existing trail races throughout Montana. The series runs from early May to early November giving participants plenty of time to run as many races as desired. Each race is between 6k and 30k in length and features predominately dirt trails. The winner of the series will be crowned “Montana Trail Running State Champion” for the year.

How to sign up:Any participant in any of the 12 races is automatically scored in the Treasure State Trail Series. For 2017 there is no extra registration form or fee.

Scoring: To officially place in the series, a participant must complete at least five of the races in 2017. Scores will be taken from a runner’s best six races, meaning any extra races can be run as a buffer race in case of a bad race. The highest total score at the end of the series wins. The first 20 finishers in each of the 12 races will be scored. Every finisher after 20th place will receive one point. Any series participant who finishes five or more races, regardless of finish position, will be recognized at the end of the series. A special prize will be presented to those who complete 11 of the 12 races.

Snowbowl - Votography Images

Update: The Treasure State Trail Series currently has seven confirmed events. The scoring system assumes that all 12 of our ideal races are on board with the series. If we need to make changes we will adjust the scoring system as well. Thank you!

Scoring breakdown:50, 42, 37, 34, 32, 30, 28...and on down to 2 points for 20th place. 21st and beyond earns 1 point.

Bonus Points: The first and last races in the series are worth 10% more points. Run those races! Also, at any point in the series if a participant beats a competitor who is ranked in the top ten in the series standings, 4 bonus points are awarded.

Snowbowl - Credit: Votography Images

Prizes: Prizes will be given to the top five men and top five women overall. Every series participant who completes five or more races will be recognized as well. Special prizes will be awarded to those who finish 11 of the 12 races. The Elk Ramble, in Missoula, will be the last race of the series and series prizes will be presented at the conclusion of this race.

The Elk Ramble - Credit: Votography Images

--Check back in the coming weeks for a listing of all series races--

Rhea Black racing Orcas Island 50k. PC: Unknown

Rhea Black and Kiefer Hahn are co-owners of Momentum Athletic Training in Missoula. Both Rhea and Kiefer are also accomplished trail runners. I won a free month of classes at Momentum and really enjoyed the experience. I found the classes to be full of variety with a focus on exercises to strengthen specific muscles for avid outdoor athletes including trail runners.

What inspired you and Kiefer to open Momentum?

Kiefer and I opened Momentum almost 12 years ago. In 2005, there wasn’t a physical location in Missoula where like-minded athletes could train specifically for endurance events with guidance from an expert. OpeningMomentum allowed us to offer sport specific classes geared at endurance athletes like runners, cyclists and skiers as well as individualized training plans too.

Kiefer instructing. PC: Erika Peterman Photography

What does a typical class at Momentum look like?

Momentum classes last 1 hour and are set up as a circuit of 18 - 1 minute stations that include strength work, CORE, agility training, balance work, plyometric (jump) training and cardio. We can take 18 people in a class. People in the class range from beginner to expert and we accommodate that. The common goal is improved fitness for outdoor pursuits and preventative care so you don’t end up injured.

Accomplished trail runner Emily Linton teaches classes at Momentum. PC: Tom Robertson Photography

What benefits can trail runners experience after taking classes at Momentum?

The overwhelming feedback that we get from clients is this: After integrating Momentum classes as part of their specific running, skiing or cycling training - clients feel stronger, have improved endurance and are faster. They experience decreased recovery time after long efforts. Injuries are less common and if they compete, they have better results.

What advice can you give someone interested in creating a business that involves what they most enjoy?

Getting to do what you enjoy as a job is a gift. I feel extremely lucky to be in this place. Make a plan and before you start, do your research and make sure that it has viability in your community.

How did you evolve as a trail runner?

I found my way back to trail running by moving away from Missoula in the late 80’s- early 90’s. Living in other places where trail running was not accessible like it is here - made me realize how much I value having trails to run on so close to where I live. I don’t ever take that for granted. I run Missoula trails most days of the week. I love to climb mountains and it evolved from exploring local trails, to competing in trail running events locally and around the US.

What are a few of your most memorable running accomplishments?

Most of my memorable running accomplishments come from bringing friends together to run in Missoula, Glacier or down in the Bozeman area. It’s more fulfilling for me than racing.

Showing a client a new trail or just hiking up the Pengally Ridge with a person who has never experienced or seen Missoula from that perspective is rewarding and makes me very happy.

Running the Speedgoat 50k in Utah in 2014. It was beautiful and I felt strong and accomplished. (editor’s note – Rhea placed 11^thin a very competitive field)

Rhea instructing.PC: Erika Peterman Photography

What is the best advice you have ever received?

There are soooo many. But in the running world - I would say the best advice I have received and now know is that recovery/rest is as important as the training itself. You have to give back to your body if you want it to work well and feel good over the long haul. This was something I read over and over but never took to heart until I had to and now I feel better than I ever have. So - eat well, rest, get massage and/or stretch in addition to all of those miles you are logging!

What is your specialty at Momentum?

I love working with women - who have had children and are busy. I help create schedules that are realistic, effective and fun. I like to help with the nutrition side of things too. As we age, nutrition becomes a very important component to feeling your best! As a busy mom myself, I have had experience and success with this. So, I can relate.

Thank you Rhea and Kiefer for supporting Montana Trail Crew's Mountain Running Film Festival and Run Wild events!

Nicole

Forest along the Whitefish Trail. PC Steven Gnam

For more than a year we've featured a different Trail Chat column each month. These chats with Montana runners are often centered on providing adventure insight for the trail running community. So to better reflect this focus, we've decided to change the name to Trail Adventure Insights. This month's column is another great example of insight from someone who regularly finds adventure on his own two feet.

Mountain Runner, outdoor photographer, and film artist Steven Gnam has been described as sharing the same characteristics of his favorite animal, the wolverine-tenacious, determined, enigmatic and an adventure seeker. Steven has spent 5 years searching for these elusive creatures. To find them he traverses some 90 miles and 30,000 vertical feet per week on skis or running shoes. Steven has sighted an incredible 20 wolverines in his backcountry adventures, despite having once spent an entire summer searching for these fleeting creatures without ever encountering one.

His passion for nature and protecting wild places has created an efficacious career. His stunning photography has appeared popular magazines such as National Geographic, Outside, Climbing and Runners World. We thank Steven for taking the time to answer a few questions about his passion for trail running in wild places.

Mt. Jumbo at sunrise during a flight to document the Great Western Checkerboard project for The Nature Conservancy PC: Steven Gnam

What have you done that you’re most proud to have achieved?

It’s the photo projects I’ve worked on across the West that highlight the importance of interconnected wildlands and leave a legacy of open space. In Montana, these projects include:

-The Great Western Checkerboard/Montana Legacy Project for the Nature Conservancy, which transferred over 100,000 acres of Plum Creek lands to public land in the Swan and Blackfoot valleys.

-The Whitefish Trail with the Whitefish Legacy Partners and The Trust for Public Land to protect lands around Whitefish and help build a trail system that surrounds the community.

-Crown of the Continent, The Wildest Rockiesa book with the Mountaineers Books/Braided River, which focuses on the ecosystem that stretches from Missoula to Banff.

Describe the greatest adventure of your life.

Adventure: 1. a bold, usually risky undertaking; hazardous action of uncertain outcome. 2. an exciting or very unusual experience.

Easily the Crown Traverse, running from Missoula to Banff, with Mike Wolfe and Mike Foote. The term adventure gets tossed around so much now that I don’t like to use it but I think this trip qualifies. Shin splints forced me to take time off during the run, but the time I was running with the Mike’s was amazing and challenging.

Friends ridge running in western Montana. PC: Steven Gnam

What are your top five personal values?

Gratitude

Reciprocity

Creativity

Adaptability

Restraint

What gets you excited about life?

Running on alpine ridges. Watching wild animals. Swimming and free diving. Spending time with my wife Aly. Working on stories about landscapes and how we interact with nature. Photographing all those things.

Storm over Antelope Island, UT. PC: Steven Gnam

If you had the opportunity to get a message across to a large group of people, what would your message be?

Love your neighbors (and the systems that sustain them), whether they are human, animal, or plants.

View from a run in the North Cascades, Washington. PC: Steven Gnam

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

Besides world peace, which I think we’d all agree upon no matter if we get our news from fake news, real news, or other alternative news sources…my wish would be that modern society could find ways to live sustainably and not diminish other forms of life on earth.

Thank you for dedicating your avocation to a great cause. The wild lands are something we as runners treasure and sometimes take for granted. My hope is that through this interview trail runners will be inspired by your valuable message to protect and celebrate wild lands as you are portraying through your artistic photographs and film. ~Nicole

Nicole Murray features Montana trail runners and other inspiring individuals in her monthly blog posts called Trail Adventure Insights. She loves running in the mountains, traveling, adventure, exploring wild places and the simple things in life such as campfire stargazing. Nicole has been coaching runners and helping them turn their dreams into reality since 2001. www.journeysoulrunning.com

Martin Miller, race director of Don't Fence Me In Trail Race. PC Dave Hagen

Helena’s Don’t Fence Me In (DFMI) trail race, which kicks off MTC's Treasure State Trail Series, was established by Prickly Pear Land Trust 17 years ago and quickly grew to one of Montana’s premier trail races. In 2016 DFMI’s 30k, 12k and 5k attracted over 650 runners. In this month’s Trail Adventure Insights meet Martin Miller, race director of the event since its inception. Martin began running Ultras in 1990. He has completed over 90 ultramarathons from 28 miles (Quad Dipsea) to 100s (including clockwise and counter-clockwise Hardrock 100 finishes).

When and why was the Prickly Pear DFMI trail race established?

My relationship with Prickly Pear Land Trust started with involvement in the genesis of the Don’tFence Me In trail running event. PPLT has done, and continues to do, a huge amount of work toestablish the trail system here in the Helena area. From negotiating access to cooperating with government agencies at all levels, including trail design and maintenance, PPLT has grown a first rate trail system. As one committee member said, “We really have won the lottery here.”

The event was originally held in 2000 as a 10 km/5 km. It was the result of a brain spasm by

at-the-time PPLT board member Kris Larson. She approached me with questions about potential course routes.

Part of the thinking about the event was to use it as a fundraiser, but it included an aspect of

showing off and celebrating the trail system. As such, when it comes to course design, I’ve

always been open to incorporating new trails and changing it up so other parts of the trail system get included. That said, I really like the 12 km course and have no plans to change it. The 12 km was added, I believe, in ’06, and the 30 km in ’08. Part of the impetus for the changes was that it had become a larger event, and PPLT wanted it to start in town for more visibility and community involvement.

Tom Hayes running up Mt Ascension. PC Janice Miller

What is unique about DFMI 12k and 30k trail race?

I think the breadth of support from the entire trail user community is pretty unique. Casual hikers andserious mountain bikers all come out in support. The mountain biker course monitors blowing onvuvuzuelas last year made for a pretty unusual run! You can hear those things a long ways off!

Another interesting aspect has been the diversity of runners who come out and run. A group of runners from Girls Thrive (ages approximately 11-13) ran the 5 km after contributing to the volunteer effort by spray painting arrows on the pavement portions of the courses the day before. Bob Hayes has called me to go thru his internal debate whether to run the 12 km or the 30 km… and opting for the 12 km so he could get back to Missoula in time to go contra dancing! Don’t Fence Me In has been the early stepping stone in the stellar ultrarunning careers of Rob Krar and Jim Walmsley. In Walmsley’s case, the DFMI12 km was his first ever trail race!

Megan Roche winner of 2016 DFMI 30k

How has the race benefited land conservation?

I think over and beyond the fund raising aspect, the courses do a good job of showing off the trail system. In the past, casual users were loving Mt. Helena to death. It’s a city park and has somegreat trails. I would go for a run there and see large numbers of folks on the trails. Then I’d go for a run on Mt Ascension or the Rodney Ridge area and see hardly anyone. The trail usage is spread over the whole system much more evenly now.

Also worth considering: The race, which has close to 800 participants, gets people outside on public land. By getting them to appreciate what is available to them, we hope that it also inspires them totake action to protect it, whether it’s through donation, volunteering, talking to legislators or simply sharing with others what they love about open spaces.

Speedy masters runners Debbie Gibson and Michele Bazzenella PC: Janice Miller

How can runners help preserve the wild lands of Montana?

There are lots of opportunities for volunteer work and advocacy. There are lots of ways to volunteer – trail work days, race committees, leading hikes/trail runs, generally getting more people involvedwith caring for wild lands. The opportunities for advocacy include open lands day at the Capitol, and writing letters to the editor.

What is the vision of Prickly Pear trail race and the land trust?

PPLT’s vision is to connect land and people. We hope that by hosting a race that brings so many trail lovers together to explore and experience the South Hills Trails, that we are inspiring and encouraging folks to protect what they love.

Missoula's speedy ultra distance runner Milton Zhinin-Barreto

In your opinion should more races partner with land conservation organizations and if so why?

Land conservation organizations work to protect the very places that so many runners spend their time training and racing. It’s a win-win partnership.

Thank you for all the work you and Prickly Pear Land Trust do for a meaningful and valuable cause. I am grateful for the opportunity of racing Don't Fence Me In. Running on beautiful trails while supporting a worthy cause is important to me and all runners alike.

Nicole

Nicole Murray features Montana trail runners and other inspiring individuals in her monthly blog posts called Trail Adventure Insights. She loves running in the mountains, traveling, adventure, exploring wild places and the simple things in life such as campfire stargazing. Nicole has been coaching runners and helping them turn their dreams into reality since 2001. www.journeysoulrunning.com

Plenty of big vistas await at the Don't Fence Me In Trail Runs - Credit:PPLT

Back in January, hundreds of public lands supporters gathered in Helena to speak out against a growing movement--in congress and right here in Montana--to sell off federal lands or weaken their protection. The crowd included trail runners, hunters, hikers, climbers, dog walkers, and many others who simply appreciate access to the forests and mountains so abundant in our state. A trail runner who spoke at the rally also happens to be governor. Steve Bullock proclaimed what public lands mean to us: "They’re our heritage. They’re our economy. They’re our quality of life." Indeed, as any runner that has ventured down a Montana trail knows, public lands are truly a gift. So get out there, enjoy them, defend them. This Saturday, the trail running community's attention returns to Helena where we have the opportunity to partake in a different sort of gathering celebrating public lands and open space: the Don't Fence Me In Trail Runs. It also kicks off MTC's Treasure State Trail Series and all proceeds from the event benefit the race organizer, Prickly Pear Land Trust.

Gov. Steve Bullock enjoying his public lands at the 2016 DFMI - Credit: PPLT

When Forrest Boughner first considered the idea of MTC promoting a trail series, he envisioned a collection of races that showcases the best of what Montana has to offer. So it's fitting that it all starts with DFMI. The mission of Prickly Pear Land Trust is “To inspire connections to the landscapes, water, wildlife, recreation and agricultural heritage of west-central Montana through conservation, now and for future generations.” With a handful of race distances, an open space fair, and a brewery after party with a limited edition beer brewed just for the event, DFMI has something for everyone and should be a perfect way to set the tone for the series. Between now and November when runners gather for the series finale at the Mount Jumbo Elk Ramble 15K--which happens to be a celebration of Missoula's open space and conservation lands--runners are encouraged to join us to explore Montana's landscapes. From Red Lodge to Whitefish, series participants will be racing trails set in some of the most inspiring places imaginable. (Click here for more on the series).

Credit: PPLT

Besides encouraging participants to experience Montana's open space and public lands, we expect that the series will feature great competition. The list of past DFMI champions includes some of North America's top trail runners: Megan Roche, Mike Wolfe, Jim Walmsley, Rob Krar, Megan Kimmel, to name just a few. Although defending champions Walmsley and Roche won't be back this year, there is plenty of regional talent looking to break through on Helena's South Hills Trails and hopefully build an early lead in the series. Here are a handful of individuals to be on the lookout for:

Credit: PPLT

Jenn Brewington, Missoula: 2017 Bitterroot Runoff Champ; 5th at last year's Missoula Marathon.

Amy Friedman, Missoula: 2nd at 2017 Bitterroot Runoff; 2nd at 2016 DFMI 30K; 2nd at 2016 Pengelly Double Dip.

Debbie Gibson, Helena: 5th at 2016 DFMI; 15th at 2016 Western States 100; multi-time Le Grizz 50 Champ, 2nd in 2016.

Anya Gue, Missoula: 2nd at 2013 & 2015 DFMI; 2nd at 2014 Bighorn 50m, 3rd in 2015; 2-time Bighorn 50K Champ; 9th at 2015 Rut 50K.

Leah Handelman, Missoula: 4th at 2016 DFMI; 4th at 2017 Yakima Skyline 50K; 3rd at 2016 Sun Mountain 50m.

Katie Steinberg, Jackson, WY: 2015 Park City North Face 50 Mile Champ; 2-time Bighorn 50K Champ; 6th at 2016 DFMI.

Credit: PPLT

Alan Adams, Bozeman: 3rd at 2016 Bighorn 50K; 2nd at 2016 Moab Trail Half; 5th at 2013 Rut 50K.

Forrest Boughner, Missoula: 2nd at 2017 Tillamook Burn 50K; 2nd at 2017 Behind the Rocks 30K; 2nd at 2016 Pengelly Double Dip.

Nico Composto, Missoula: Bitterroot Runoff Champ; 2017 Snow Joke Champ; 29:42 10,000m PB; NCAA Division I All-American in Cross County.

Mark Handelman, Missoula: 2013
Sentinel Hill Climb Champ; 7th at 2016 DFMI; 2:33 marathoner.

Nick Triolo, Missoula: Numerous top ultramarathon finishes, including wins at Capital Peak 50 & McDonald Forest 50K.

Jesse Zentz, Helena: 4th at 2016 DFMI; 2nd at 2017 Snow Joke; 2nd at 2015 Bighorn 50K.

Dylan Zitzer, Dillon: 2016 Bighorn 50K Champ.

A special thanks goes out to all the race directors who agreed to participate in this year's series and also Altra, our presenting sponsor, which donated a generous merchandise prize purse that will reward the top finishers of the overall series five-deep, as well as those who complete the most races in the series. We'll have some other unique prizes lined up as well that we'll be announcing as the series moves forward.

Dana Bandy and balsamroot in Mount Jumbo's North Zone. Photo credit: Craig Macholz

It's that time of year many have been waiting for: The North Zone of Mount Jumbo is finally open!

After a prolonged winter wildlife closure, every Mount Jumbo trail from Hellgate Canyon to Woods Gulch reopened in the middle of last week. But judging by all of the photos you've shared, you already knew that.

If you haven't been up to the North Zone yet, now is the time to go - there's a bounty of golden balsamroot covering the hillsides, as Craig Macholz, Dana Bandy and I found a day after the reopening. We also found a crowd of other runners and mountain bikers, so it's worth reminding to respect other trail users and yield when needed.

Here are more of your Trail Shots from recent weeks.

On the 11 Miles to Paradise Trail. Photo credit: Jon Aaron Aaseng

Members of the Wild Mountain Runners MT Facebook group have been busy organizing runs around western Montana recently.

First up was a preview of the 11 Miles to Paradise course east of St. Regis last month. A few folks ran out and back and were met by more halfway through - and as at the race, they soaked at Quinn's Hot Springs afterward.

A return trip weeks later revealed most of the trees over the trail had been cut out, but if you're running next weekend you might still find a large one near the aid station.

Sunrise run on Mount Sentinel. Photo credit: Ian Carlson

A small group also made an early-morning run up Mount Sentinel last week, taking in both the moonset and sunrise.

The greenery of Larry Creek. Photo credit: Forrest Boughner

The Run Wild Missoula trail running class took to the trails at Larry Creek in the Bitterroot Valley recently. There, they found a lot of greenery.

Have a Montana running photo you'd like to share with Trail Shots? Post it to the Montana Trail Crew Facebook page.

Over 700 people came out for the Don’t Fence Me In trail race last weekend in Helena. The event, hosted by Prickly Pear Land Trust, is a fundraiser for various public land projects in the Helena vicinity. PPLT is one of the loudest voices in Montana for protecting public open space and Don’t Fence Me In is a way runners and walkers can help support trail maintenance efforts.

Start of the Don't Fence Me In 30k. Photo courtesy of Anthony Pavkovich

The 2017 edition of Don’t Fence Me In served as the series opener for the inaugural Treasure State Trail Series. Those who completed the 30k are now a leg up in the standings and are one step closer to a prize package provided by Altra Running to be awarded at the series finale.

Early in the men’s race Jeremy Jones of Golden, CO and Jimmy Grant, from Missoula, separated from the field and steadily pulled away as the trail wound up Mt. Ascension. They continued to run together until the latter half of the race were Jeremy was able to pull away from Jimmy and cruise down Mt. Helena to the finish in 2:25:24. Jimmy held on for second place in 2:26:11.

Jimmy Grant moving well along the ridge. Photo courtesy of Anthony Pavkovich

In the chase pack Nico Composto, from Missoula, moved up steadily and nabbed third after a blazing descent off the top, followed closely by Helena hero Jesse Zentz and Missoulian Mark Handelman.

Although Jeremy Jones is now leading the Treasure State Trail Series, chances are good that’s the only series race he will complete being from Colorado. For now Jimmy Grant is the one to catch.

On the women’s side Amy Friedman, from Missoula, jumped out to an early lead over Leah Handelman, also from Missoula, and came through the aid station at mile seven running well. Leah used her experience from chasing Amy last year to her advantage and waited a few more miles before closing the gap. “I remembered gaining some ground last year during the last two climbs before the Mount Helena ridge so I made it a point to try that again and push it hard on those last two climbs,” said Leah. She was able to catch and pass Amy on Wakina Ridge and pull away to claim the victory in 2:54:24 while Amy hung on for second in 2:57:22.

Leah Handelman all smiles late in the race. Photo courtesy of Anthony Pavkovich

Katie Steinberg of Jackson, WY followed closely in third before two Missoulians, Jenn Brewington and Elizabeth Paddock, crossed in fourth and fifth respectively.

Following the race Blackfoot River Brewing kept the party going with a special edition brew and the weather held off long enough for participants to celebrate a great day on public lands.

The next race in the Treasure State Trail Series is the Montana Island Challenge half marathon in Lewistown, MT on July 8th. For a complete list of series races check out theseries page.

The Treasure State Trail Series is presented by:

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What have you done that you’re most proud to have achieved?

Describe the greatest adventure of your life.

What are your top five personal values?

What gets you excited about life?

If you had the opportunity to get a message across to a large group of people, what would your message be?

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

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Treasure State Trail Series: Don't Fence Me In Preview

Trail Shots: Jumbo North Zone opens with balsamroot bounty

Don't Fence Me In Recap