Thursday, September 30, 2010
Mansfield
Mt Mansfield – something of a Traverse
My final run of my mini vacation was a (near) traverse of the various facial features of Mt Mansfield. I decided to park at the base of the toll road and planned on running the 108 up to the Long Trail then ascend to the ridge and come down via the toll road. I’d been to most of the Mansfield features before but still needed the Adam’s Apple (4,120’), which is the COHP for Lamoille VT. The day was already a bit warm but I decided that I wouldn’t be out “too long” (whatever that means) and just went with 16 ounces of water and a gel. I hoped to make the loop in under 3 hours.
After a brief chat with a couple heading for a hike up the toll road (I wanted to make sure they actually allow hiking on the road) I headed off on Route 108. The map shows it as 3 miles from the Toll Road to the Long Trail, but I hit the trailhead in 23:13, so it is a bit shorter than 3. I took a 2:47 break to adjust my END Stumptown high-top running shoes and sign in at the LT register then started the ascent. 49:51 later I was on top of the Adam’s Apple enjoying the view and the cool breeze. I took a short 1:19 for a couple of pictures and a drink and headed for the part I was worried about. The climb to the chin is very steep, rocky, exposed in spots and on this day wet. I moved very slowly on this part, a couple of times making five points of contact. I reached one spot where I wasn’t sure if I could safely ascend, but I knew I’d have way more trouble heading down. At the same time a couple of backpackers came by (descending) which gave me a few minutes to collect my thoughts.
After they passed I made my way to the top, hitting it 18:23 after leaving the Adam’s Apple. The summit had a lot of people on it, so I didn’t even stop. I really enjoyed the running across the summit ridge, with some drop to the Lower Lip (4,120’) and Upper Lip (3,964’) then the slight climb to the Nose (4,020’) which I reached in 24:16. I had no intention of heading for the Forehead, so it was all down hill from there. In less than 2 minutes (1:56) I finished off my gel and the last of my water and 4:44 later I was on the toll road and enjoyed the excellent footing and easy running down the road. I stopped half-way down to chat with the couple I had seen at the start of the run (4 minutes) and hit the bottom in 38:25 (34:25 actual running) for a grand total of 2:44:57 for the very interesting 11+ mile loop.
A couple of Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2181
My final run of my mini vacation was a (near) traverse of the various facial features of Mt Mansfield. I decided to park at the base of the toll road and planned on running the 108 up to the Long Trail then ascend to the ridge and come down via the toll road. I’d been to most of the Mansfield features before but still needed the Adam’s Apple (4,120’), which is the COHP for Lamoille VT. The day was already a bit warm but I decided that I wouldn’t be out “too long” (whatever that means) and just went with 16 ounces of water and a gel. I hoped to make the loop in under 3 hours.
After a brief chat with a couple heading for a hike up the toll road (I wanted to make sure they actually allow hiking on the road) I headed off on Route 108. The map shows it as 3 miles from the Toll Road to the Long Trail, but I hit the trailhead in 23:13, so it is a bit shorter than 3. I took a 2:47 break to adjust my END Stumptown high-top running shoes and sign in at the LT register then started the ascent. 49:51 later I was on top of the Adam’s Apple enjoying the view and the cool breeze. I took a short 1:19 for a couple of pictures and a drink and headed for the part I was worried about. The climb to the chin is very steep, rocky, exposed in spots and on this day wet. I moved very slowly on this part, a couple of times making five points of contact. I reached one spot where I wasn’t sure if I could safely ascend, but I knew I’d have way more trouble heading down. At the same time a couple of backpackers came by (descending) which gave me a few minutes to collect my thoughts.
After they passed I made my way to the top, hitting it 18:23 after leaving the Adam’s Apple. The summit had a lot of people on it, so I didn’t even stop. I really enjoyed the running across the summit ridge, with some drop to the Lower Lip (4,120’) and Upper Lip (3,964’) then the slight climb to the Nose (4,020’) which I reached in 24:16. I had no intention of heading for the Forehead, so it was all down hill from there. In less than 2 minutes (1:56) I finished off my gel and the last of my water and 4:44 later I was on the toll road and enjoyed the excellent footing and easy running down the road. I stopped half-way down to chat with the couple I had seen at the start of the run (4 minutes) and hit the bottom in 38:25 (34:25 actual running) for a grand total of 2:44:57 for the very interesting 11+ mile loop.
A couple of Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2181
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Jay & Big Jay
Jay Peak – 3,858’
Orleans VT COHP
Big Jay – 3,786’
Franklin VT COHP
I followed Hanson’s 2002 trip report which is still accurate, but decided to make a loop out of it figuring running down the ski slopes would be more interesting than coming back down the Long Trail. Ran up the Long Trail from Jay pass and hit the summit in 34:22. I spent 5:54 taking a couple of quick pictures and having a drink and gel, and then headed off. It was windy and a rain shower was passing by as I headed off the rocky summit. I ran down the “Goat Run” then headed for the “trail” to Big Jay. I missed it at first, heading into the woods on an animal path a bit before the actual unofficial trail. I then bushwhacked over and got on the trail. 28:31 after leaving Jay I was on the top of Big Jay. The path was excellent, just a couple of boggy spots where I went calf and knee deep in mud. I took just under 5 minutes to sign in and take a few pictures before heading back to Jay. I stopped just before the summit to chat with a backpacker (who wasn’t sure exactly where the LT went) and was on top again 31:00 after leaving Big Jay. I decided that heading across the peak would be “easy” and 11:23 later I was standing on top of a sub-peak that had a ski trail and after a 3 minute break for the last of my water and a couple of more pics I was on my way down to the base. 10:38 later I reached the bottom of the ski area and after adjusting my orthotics (which had pushed forward in my shoes) I was off for Jay pass. The final 2 miles on the road were not that bad, it was very quiet out there. 16:57 later I was back at the car gulping down a Vanilla Coke. Total time for the ‘about 8 mile’ loop was 2:26:32.
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2147
Orleans VT COHP
Big Jay – 3,786’
Franklin VT COHP
I followed Hanson’s 2002 trip report which is still accurate, but decided to make a loop out of it figuring running down the ski slopes would be more interesting than coming back down the Long Trail. Ran up the Long Trail from Jay pass and hit the summit in 34:22. I spent 5:54 taking a couple of quick pictures and having a drink and gel, and then headed off. It was windy and a rain shower was passing by as I headed off the rocky summit. I ran down the “Goat Run” then headed for the “trail” to Big Jay. I missed it at first, heading into the woods on an animal path a bit before the actual unofficial trail. I then bushwhacked over and got on the trail. 28:31 after leaving Jay I was on the top of Big Jay. The path was excellent, just a couple of boggy spots where I went calf and knee deep in mud. I took just under 5 minutes to sign in and take a few pictures before heading back to Jay. I stopped just before the summit to chat with a backpacker (who wasn’t sure exactly where the LT went) and was on top again 31:00 after leaving Big Jay. I decided that heading across the peak would be “easy” and 11:23 later I was standing on top of a sub-peak that had a ski trail and after a 3 minute break for the last of my water and a couple of more pics I was on my way down to the base. 10:38 later I reached the bottom of the ski area and after adjusting my orthotics (which had pushed forward in my shoes) I was off for Jay pass. The final 2 miles on the road were not that bad, it was very quiet out there. 16:57 later I was back at the car gulping down a Vanilla Coke. Total time for the ‘about 8 mile’ loop was 2:26:32.
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2147
Lyon mountain
Lyon Mountain – 3,820’
Clinton NY COHP
The “new” trail is substantially longer than the old one. It looks like the old trail has been disused for a while, the new trail is much nicer (less rocky) and for the most part very run-able. The first .2 is on the old trail, then you take a sharp left onto the new trail, the last .3 or so is back on the old trail. I had the mountain to myself and took it cautiously on the wet rock on the upper part. I hit the top in 50:47, and then checked out the (open) firetower and 5:44 later was on my way back down. I went very carefully on the way down mostly to make it down safely but also to save my quads for more peak bagging. I was down in 49:16 for a total of 1:45:48 for the 6.8 mile round trip run.
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2138
Clinton NY COHP
The “new” trail is substantially longer than the old one. It looks like the old trail has been disused for a while, the new trail is much nicer (less rocky) and for the most part very run-able. The first .2 is on the old trail, then you take a sharp left onto the new trail, the last .3 or so is back on the old trail. I had the mountain to myself and took it cautiously on the wet rock on the upper part. I hit the top in 50:47, and then checked out the (open) firetower and 5:44 later was on my way back down. I went very carefully on the way down mostly to make it down safely but also to save my quads for more peak bagging. I was down in 49:16 for a total of 1:45:48 for the 6.8 mile round trip run.
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2138
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Black Mountain
Black Mountain – 2,640’
Washington NY COHP
The trail was posted as 2.5 at the trailhead but was also listed as 2.8 miles later on the trail. Trip reports had it at 2.8 and that seemed correct. I was 1:10:13 roundtrip for the 5.6 miles – 34:45 to the top, 5:00 on top, then 30:27 to run down. There were 20 people on the summit including a group of kids from a nearby school. The firetower was fenced off but there were great views of lake George from the open rocks. Most of the trail was very run-able.
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2125
Washington NY COHP
The trail was posted as 2.5 at the trailhead but was also listed as 2.8 miles later on the trail. Trip reports had it at 2.8 and that seemed correct. I was 1:10:13 roundtrip for the 5.6 miles – 34:45 to the top, 5:00 on top, then 30:27 to run down. There were 20 people on the summit including a group of kids from a nearby school. The firetower was fenced off but there were great views of lake George from the open rocks. Most of the trail was very run-able.
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2125
Gillespie Peak
Gillespie Peak – 3,366’
Windsor VT COHP
I ran up/down via the Long Trail. The trail was fairly run-able. In order I passed over: Mt Horrid (3,216’), Cape Lookoff (3,320’) and Gillespie Peak. I was 53:17 to Gillespie then a quick gel and water and headed back in 51:41, getting Mt Horrid and Cape Lookoff again and adding the very short trip out to the “Great Cliff”. The total time for the round trip run was 1:46:28 for 6.8 miles with 1,800’ of climb and descent.
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2116
Windsor VT COHP
I ran up/down via the Long Trail. The trail was fairly run-able. In order I passed over: Mt Horrid (3,216’), Cape Lookoff (3,320’) and Gillespie Peak. I was 53:17 to Gillespie then a quick gel and water and headed back in 51:41, getting Mt Horrid and Cape Lookoff again and adding the very short trip out to the “Great Cliff”. The total time for the round trip run was 1:46:28 for 6.8 miles with 1,800’ of climb and descent.
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2116
Monday, September 27, 2010
Killlington - My highest solo
I spent my last few days of vacation time getting some high points in NY & VT...
Killington – 4,235’
Rutland VT County High Point
I arrived before sunrise but unfortunately clouds obscured the full moon so I went with a headlamp. Temperatures were in the 40’s as I hiked the direct route up the “A” trail (the Flume) which follows the K-1 Gondola to the top. Then moved to trail “2” to the summit. It was a total of 1.3 miles with 1,840’ of climb. I hit the top in 35:31 then spent 3:15 on the top quickly taking a few shots of the sunrise and checking out access to the firetower. The tower was impossible to climb it was locked up tightly. I ran down the mountain using a mix of trails 1, C, E, and F and included a pass over Skye Peak (3,800’). It took me 33:55 to Zigzag down the mountain for a total time of 1:12:43. I was in the parking lot as the Gondola workers were arriving for the start of the day’s action. Pre-dawn is a great time to visit an active ski area like this!
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2102
Killington – 4,235’
Rutland VT County High Point
I arrived before sunrise but unfortunately clouds obscured the full moon so I went with a headlamp. Temperatures were in the 40’s as I hiked the direct route up the “A” trail (the Flume) which follows the K-1 Gondola to the top. Then moved to trail “2” to the summit. It was a total of 1.3 miles with 1,840’ of climb. I hit the top in 35:31 then spent 3:15 on the top quickly taking a few shots of the sunrise and checking out access to the firetower. The tower was impossible to climb it was locked up tightly. I ran down the mountain using a mix of trails 1, C, E, and F and included a pass over Skye Peak (3,800’). It took me 33:55 to Zigzag down the mountain for a total time of 1:12:43. I was in the parking lot as the Gondola workers were arriving for the start of the day’s action. Pre-dawn is a great time to visit an active ski area like this!
Pictures: http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2102
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Mt Whitney - 09-17-10
Mt Whitney – 14,495’Pictures - http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/1972
CA - Inyo & Tulare County high points – 09/17/10
We had our “shake out” hike the previous day tagging the summit of Boundary Peak. After fueling up at the Pizza Factory in Lone pine we hit the sack by 9 PM. I was pretty beat from all of the time changes (I’d been in Ireland until the day before we left on this trip) and from the driving. I guess the excitement of this climb that I’d been planning for over 9 months was enough to make me feel wide awake when we rose at 3:00 AM. Eric M, Rod V, Dan V, Doug D, Robert M, and Richard B had all come from sea-level which left us all a bit nervous about the climb. All of us are strong runners and at least our fitness level would not be an issue.
The plan was to hit the trail by 4:00 AM and we were very close, heading off in the pitch dark at 4:08. It was cool seeing all of the headlamps ahead of us on the trail and fun trying to figure out where to look. We had no idea which way the trail would turn, we had a map and compass but had no need as the trail was clearly marked and well trod.
After 1.5 hours of hiking we began to notice that the sky was brightening and within another hour we were treated to a spectacular sunrise. The trail was very tame (much easier than Boundary) but we kept the pace slow to ensure that no one got into trouble.
I really enjoyed the climb until we reached the trail crest, after that I had two or three moments of worry on the narrow parts with serious drop-offs (sometimes on both sides). The trail was very good, but my fear of falling, or more precisely fear of hitting the rocks below, gave me a couple of intense moments. The entire climb went smoothly and we were on top in 6:25.
We spent 23 minutes on top taking pictures and refueling a bit (including a shared Red Bull) and then we were off. Conditions were ideal, with very little wind, bright sunshine, and moderate temperatures on top (although it was a bit hot on the way back down). Eric decided he wanted to do some running and he was out of sight on the descent. We all got together at outpost camp and Eric took off for the final 5 (?) miles. Richard and Rod joined me for a while at a slower run but eventually pushed ahead. Robert (who is a professional mountain guide) hiked with Dan and Doug.
It was pretty hot running but it felt good to be moving along knowing that the end would soon be in sight. I hit the trailhead 10:56 after starting (4:08 for the descent) and the other guys were a bit faster and a bit slower respectively.
We headed off to Vegas, which was about halfway to our next goal (Humphreys) and were treated to an amazing sunset in Death Valley. It was a very long day but well worth it!
CA - Inyo & Tulare County high points – 09/17/10
We had our “shake out” hike the previous day tagging the summit of Boundary Peak. After fueling up at the Pizza Factory in Lone pine we hit the sack by 9 PM. I was pretty beat from all of the time changes (I’d been in Ireland until the day before we left on this trip) and from the driving. I guess the excitement of this climb that I’d been planning for over 9 months was enough to make me feel wide awake when we rose at 3:00 AM. Eric M, Rod V, Dan V, Doug D, Robert M, and Richard B had all come from sea-level which left us all a bit nervous about the climb. All of us are strong runners and at least our fitness level would not be an issue.
The plan was to hit the trail by 4:00 AM and we were very close, heading off in the pitch dark at 4:08. It was cool seeing all of the headlamps ahead of us on the trail and fun trying to figure out where to look. We had no idea which way the trail would turn, we had a map and compass but had no need as the trail was clearly marked and well trod.
We spent 23 minutes on top taking pictures and refueling a bit (including a shared Red Bull) and then we were off. Conditions were ideal, with very little wind, bright sunshine, and moderate temperatures on top (although it was a bit hot on the way back down). Eric decided he wanted to do some running and he was out of sight on the descent. We all got together at outpost camp and Eric took off for the final 5 (?) miles. Richard and Rod joined me for a while at a slower run but eventually pushed ahead. Robert (who is a professional mountain guide) hiked with Dan and Doug.
It was pretty hot running but it felt good to be moving along knowing that the end would soon be in sight. I hit the trailhead 10:56 after starting (4:08 for the descent) and the other guys were a bit faster and a bit slower respectively.
We headed off to Vegas, which was about halfway to our next goal (Humphreys) and were treated to an amazing sunset in Death Valley. It was a very long day but well worth it!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Humphreys Peak - 09-18-10
Humphreys Peak – 12,633’
Coconino County High Point – AZ
This was the final peak of our long weekend of state high points. I was definitely feeling the lack of sleep on the long drive from Lone Pine CA to Las Vegas the night before, but after a good night sleep the 4.5 hour drive to Flagstaff didn’t seem all that bad.
The trip reports from both of the state high point books were a bit vague about the distance of the trail. The sign at the Humphreys trailhead read 4.8 miles. I think that all of the guys wanted to not hold back at all on this one. Robert went to the front of the line and we began moving through groups of people. It was amazing how many people were out on the mountain, especially given how late (relatively) we were starting. This mountain is very popular and it was a beautiful day with temps in the 80’s and a bright blue sky.
The footing seemed somewhat rocky and rooty in parts and was dusty the entire way. Robert set a strong pace and I found myself running to catch up whenever I stopped to take a few pictures. It was a bit of a surprise to feel as good as I did with long hikes on Boundary and Whitney the previous two days. The others were also feeling good and we made it to the saddle between Humphreys and Agassiz in 1:32. We did a fair amount of running from the saddle to the summit and were on top in 2:02.
We stayed on the summit for 11 minutes taking pictures but pressed on wanting to get this one in the books. Eric decided to run down (no surprise) and it only took him about 20 minutes to reach the saddle. Robert decided to “stretch his legs out” and he completed that section in 15 minutes. The rest of us did it in a more realistic (and safe) 26 minutes. We regrouped at the saddle and with Dan setting the pace we methodically worked our way down. We stopped about half-way down and lost about 5 minutes helping a guy who took a bad spill. Even with the delay we were back at the trailhead in 67 minutes for a total round trip of 3:46 over 9.6 miles with 3,100’ of climb/descent. It was a great day and a great way to finish out the weekend.
Pictures - http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/2058
Coconino County High Point – AZ
This was the final peak of our long weekend of state high points. I was definitely feeling the lack of sleep on the long drive from Lone Pine CA to Las Vegas the night before, but after a good night sleep the 4.5 hour drive to Flagstaff didn’t seem all that bad.
The trip reports from both of the state high point books were a bit vague about the distance of the trail. The sign at the Humphreys trailhead read 4.8 miles. I think that all of the guys wanted to not hold back at all on this one. Robert went to the front of the line and we began moving through groups of people. It was amazing how many people were out on the mountain, especially given how late (relatively) we were starting. This mountain is very popular and it was a beautiful day with temps in the 80’s and a bright blue sky.
The footing seemed somewhat rocky and rooty in parts and was dusty the entire way. Robert set a strong pace and I found myself running to catch up whenever I stopped to take a few pictures. It was a bit of a surprise to feel as good as I did with long hikes on Boundary and Whitney the previous two days. The others were also feeling good and we made it to the saddle between Humphreys and Agassiz in 1:32. We did a fair amount of running from the saddle to the summit and were on top in 2:02.
We stayed on the summit for 11 minutes taking pictures but pressed on wanting to get this one in the books. Eric decided to run down (no surprise) and it only took him about 20 minutes to reach the saddle. Robert decided to “stretch his legs out” and he completed that section in 15 minutes. The rest of us did it in a more realistic (and safe) 26 minutes. We regrouped at the saddle and with Dan setting the pace we methodically worked our way down. We stopped about half-way down and lost about 5 minutes helping a guy who took a bad spill. Even with the delay we were back at the trailhead in 67 minutes for a total round trip of 3:46 over 9.6 miles with 3,100’ of climb/descent. It was a great day and a great way to finish out the weekend.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Boundary Peak 09-16-10
Boundary Peak - 13,147'
Esmeralda NV county high point & NV state high point
Late last year I decided that I’d take a shot at the lottery for a day use pass for Mt Whitney. After getting one I came up with a tentative plan to hike (and as always do some running) the highpoints in adjoining Nevada and Arizon. Armed with maps and trip reports and an aggressive itinerary I met up with teammates Eric M, Dan V, Rod V, Hungarian mountain guide Robert M, and long-time friend Doug D.
We didn’t mind the extra hike on the dirt road; it just meant a little more run-able terrain (for the return trip). It took us 22 minutes to reach the trailhead. I really enjoyed the next part to the saddle. The conditions were perfect – sunny and not too hot. We all hiked in shorts and long sleeve t-s to start then went short sleeves by the time we hit the saddle (1:43).
The tough climbing began after that. I found a couple of parts to be what I classify as “scary” (some would classify me as a weenie). I had a little trouble on the rockier stuff, trying to find a decent grip and keep panic at bay. We hit the summit in 3:41, then spent 20 minutes on top taking pictures and signing the log book.
I felt a lot more comfortable on the descent. That seemed odd to me, usually descending is trickier…go figure. Eric and Rod blasted ahead once we hit the scree slope but they waited for us in the saddle. It took us 1:22 to descend to the saddle and another 1:19 to get back to the car for a total time of 4:34 (including the 20 minutes on top). Eric, Rod, and I finished a bit earlier as we ran the last 2 miles or so and then we finished out the visit to Boundary with a 6+ mile run down to Highway 6. It was hot and we were tired but it was a fine end to the day.
Over 100 pictures = http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/1869
Esmeralda NV county high point & NV state high point
Late last year I decided that I’d take a shot at the lottery for a day use pass for Mt Whitney. After getting one I came up with a tentative plan to hike (and as always do some running) the highpoints in adjoining Nevada and Arizon. Armed with maps and trip reports and an aggressive itinerary I met up with teammates Eric M, Dan V, Rod V, Hungarian mountain guide Robert M, and long-time friend Doug D.
We used Covills TR from 2003 and headed for the Queen’s Canyon approach to Boundary. The forest access road was actually 2 miles (exactly) from the CA/NV border (not the 1 mile mentioned in the TR). We had some slight trouble as it was pitch dark at 6 AM and we checked out a big water tower before heading to the correct location. The very small water tank with “JR” written on it has fallen over, but the marking was visible and (what’s left of) the Ranch is now up for sale. Anyway, after we found it we made our way up the dirt road.
We could not drive the entire distance to the trailhead. Although we had SUV’s, neither were four-wheel-drive and despite Doug’s multiple efforts we could not clear and especially steep section. Fortunately there is a nice flat section right before it, so we pulled off and parked.
We didn’t mind the extra hike on the dirt road; it just meant a little more run-able terrain (for the return trip). It took us 22 minutes to reach the trailhead. I really enjoyed the next part to the saddle. The conditions were perfect – sunny and not too hot. We all hiked in shorts and long sleeve t-s to start then went short sleeves by the time we hit the saddle (1:43).
The tough climbing began after that. I found a couple of parts to be what I classify as “scary” (some would classify me as a weenie). I had a little trouble on the rockier stuff, trying to find a decent grip and keep panic at bay. We hit the summit in 3:41, then spent 20 minutes on top taking pictures and signing the log book.
 |
| Just below the tougher stuff |
I felt a lot more comfortable on the descent. That seemed odd to me, usually descending is trickier…go figure. Eric and Rod blasted ahead once we hit the scree slope but they waited for us in the saddle. It took us 1:22 to descend to the saddle and another 1:19 to get back to the car for a total time of 4:34 (including the 20 minutes on top). Eric, Rod, and I finished a bit earlier as we ran the last 2 miles or so and then we finished out the visit to Boundary with a 6+ mile run down to Highway 6. It was hot and we were tired but it was a fine end to the day.
 |
| The long road in |
Over 100 pictures = http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/1869
Monday, September 20, 2010
Week Ending 09-19-10
Met my major goals which were to not get hurt hiking/running on the peaks in NV, CA, and AZ. Although my running total was low, I had a lot of time on my feet with the hikes. My foot is sore, but so far it is manageable. I’d started planning this trip last December, so it is great that it is now in the books and all went well.
M – 6am 5m run in London
T – AM 5m Winni loop. Early PM same loop.
W – 6am flight to Las Vegas then 4 hour drive to Tonopah , NV Brock Mountain
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| Sunset in Tonopah |
Th – Met Doug at the road to Boundary peak then all of us hiked to the summit (13,140’), about 11 miles of hiking and 8+ of running including 6+ out to the highway on the access road (with Eric & Rod) 57:21
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| On the summit of Boundary |
F – Added Richard to the crew and we hiked Mt Whitney (14,495’). Nearly 21 miles and just under 11 hours of hiking including running the last 5+ in 1:20:43.
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| On the 97 switchbacks at Whitney |
Sat – Noon arrival in Flagstaff for hike of Humphreys Peak (12,633’). A little running on the climb mixed in with some very quick hiking. Ran almost all of the descent. Total time 3:46
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| Nearing the top of Humphreys |
Sun - 9am (80+ degrees) run in Las Vegas
Totals for the week
Run – 54 miles
Hike – 43 miles
Climb/descend – 14,053’
Drive – 1,300
Time zone changes - 10
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Carrauntoohil
One of my goals of the Ireland/U.K. trip was to take a shot at the highest point in Ireland...Carrauntoohil. At 3,414' it doesn't sound to bad, but I was not lulled into a false sense of security with the relative "lowness" of this mountain. Weather, lack of trails, and some scary steep stuff would make this a big challenge.
 |
| Looking up the bowl I'd climb |
My planned route is called the Black Mare ascent and it is called the "safe route to the summit". The first check mark was crossing the stream at 442 meters. I had a little trouble finding a good crossing point but not much time was lost. I'd made it up from 185m to 442m in 19:34.
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| At the lake shore |
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| Looking back just as I start the big climb |
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| Looking back on my ascent |
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| At my highest |
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| Looking up at the top and deciding to turn around |
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| This is what the bowl looked like on my way out. |
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Boston Scientific 5km
While over in Ireland for vacation we (me and the rest of the DRC) found a race in the town of Oranmore. Thank you Emer for the advice on websites to check!
We rolled into town a bit later than I had hoped due to a full day of visiting the Bunratty castle and the Cliffs of Moher.
The roads in Ireland are small and rarely, if ever, signed. After getting assistance from a local (we were on the race course but didn't know it) off to the start. I headed off for a 2m warm-up while the rest of the crew got our numbers and prepared to race.
The start was a bit late, so much for the "promptly at 6:45" start time :-), but that gave me a chance to do some strides and really worry about racing.
232 of us took off at what felt like a sprint. I held back trying to run comfortably and found myself in around 20th place 400m into the race. I slowly moved up and hit the 1km mark in 3:18. The first K had a slight downhill and a bit of a tailwind so I was pleased with that.
I set my sights on a couple of Gallway Runners and worked on reeling them in. The second K had the only real climb of the race and I covered it in 3:30, at the same time moving through the fast starters to move up to 10th place.
I caught the two Gallway guys who also looked like they might be 40+ runners (although it is really hard to tell) and together we passed a couple of guys and I got myself into 7th. The slight down hill had me passing 3km in 3:22 (total 10:10). We hit the bay and I knew where I was from driving on the course.
A bit of a tailwind kept us rolling from 3km to 4km with me staying with 6th place and pulling away from two guys who lost a few seconds in that 1,000m stretch. I was pleased with the 3:26 split and began calculating what I'd need to run under 17:10. I knew there was a gentle (not so gentle in the last K) uphill toward the finish as the last 800m was the reverse of the first 800m.
The 6th place guy slowly pulled away as he attempted to catch 5th place. I was full out and losing ground, but did manage to hold off the two other guys (one did turn out to be 40+). The last K was covered in 3:28 for a total time of 17:04.
I was pleased with the effort although I'd hoped to go with 6th place who ended up breaking 17. At least he wasn't a master!
1 15:10 Gerry Ryan 19-39
2 16:10 Matt Bidwell 19-39
3 16:17 Michael Shannon 19-39
4 16:46 Timmy Glavey 19-39
5 16:54 Peter O'Sullivan 19-39
6 17:04 Dave Dunham 40-49
7 17:10 Johnny Lane 19-39
8 17:11 Dermot Lowe 40-49
9 17:25 Tommy Niland 19-39
10 17:35 Kevin Doyle 19-39
 |
| A warning sign at the cliffs and a sign for the Samaritans...location, location, location. |
232 of us took off at what felt like a sprint. I held back trying to run comfortably and found myself in around 20th place 400m into the race. I slowly moved up and hit the 1km mark in 3:18. The first K had a slight downhill and a bit of a tailwind so I was pleased with that.
I caught the two Gallway guys who also looked like they might be 40+ runners (although it is really hard to tell) and together we passed a couple of guys and I got myself into 7th. The slight down hill had me passing 3km in 3:22 (total 10:10). We hit the bay and I knew where I was from driving on the course.
A bit of a tailwind kept us rolling from 3km to 4km with me staying with 6th place and pulling away from two guys who lost a few seconds in that 1,000m stretch. I was pleased with the 3:26 split and began calculating what I'd need to run under 17:10. I knew there was a gentle (not so gentle in the last K) uphill toward the finish as the last 800m was the reverse of the first 800m.
I was pleased with the effort although I'd hoped to go with 6th place who ended up breaking 17. At least he wasn't a master!
1 15:10 Gerry Ryan 19-39
2 16:10 Matt Bidwell 19-39
3 16:17 Michael Shannon 19-39
4 16:46 Timmy Glavey 19-39
5 16:54 Peter O'Sullivan 19-39
6 17:04 Dave Dunham 40-49
7 17:10 Johnny Lane 19-39
8 17:11 Dermot Lowe 40-49
9 17:25 Tommy Niland 19-39
10 17:35 Kevin Doyle 19-39
Week Ending 09-12-10
A solid week for me despite a couple of travel days. Nothing like vacation to help the mileage!
M - Flew from Boston to Shannon overnight Sunday. Slept most of the day in Shannon then out/back on "the Low road" 6m - 44:43
T - 7am out/back on the Low Rd 4m 28:46. PM out/back on the Low Rd 8m in 57:09 (timed 2k in 6:48/mile pace).
W - 7am out/back on the Low Rd 4m 28:27. Visit to Bunratty castle, the Cliffs of Moher, and a 5km race. 2m warmup in 14:32 strides and more waiting for start. 5km race in 17:04. 4+m warm-down in 32:10.
Th - 7am o/b 4m on the Low Rd 30:16. Pm hike and run attempt to summit Carrauntoohil (3,414') plus run back to Glencar - total running time 3:45:50
F - 7am out/back 4m on the Low Rd 29:23. Then flight to London. 4 PM 6m on treadmill at hotel 43:31.
Sat - o/b on streets in London, down to Big Ben and back. 30:09. PM in park near the Walthamtow Marsh, great trails along a canal. 7m 50:32. Watched team DRC race.
Sun - 7am longer out/back run along the Thames, to St James park, past Buckingham palace into Green park and Hyde park and back. Felt very good - 59:08. Early afternoon 3m on treadmill 20:48
Total for the week = 78 miles
 |
| Bunratty Castle hotel |
 |
| Bunratty castle as seen from the Low Road |
 |
| part of the 5k course |
 |
| Looking down at the lakes I ran by on my way up the mountain |
Sat - o/b on streets in London, down to Big Ben and back. 30:09. PM in park near the Walthamtow Marsh, great trails along a canal. 7m 50:32. Watched team DRC race.
Sun - 7am longer out/back run along the Thames, to St James park, past Buckingham palace into Green park and Hyde park and back. Felt very good - 59:08. Early afternoon 3m on treadmill 20:48
Total for the week = 78 miles
Monday, September 6, 2010
County high points
I've got over 120 county high points, but I'm hoping to get my first COHP outside of the U.S. Ireland here I come!
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Week ending 09-05-10
Not a bad week, had another 60 miles and felt pretty decent. Had hoped to run under 17:10, but will have to wait another few days to aim for that again. Off to Ireland then out to climb the highest peak in the contiguous U.S.
M - 430am Industrial park 4 in 32:24. PM Winni 5 in 37:53. Still sore from 10km trail champs.
T - 430am Ind Pk 5 in 37:50. PM 3m out/back at Physical Therapy in 22:48.
W - 430am Ind Pk 5 in 37:28. PM 3 on the track at Gate City Striders workout. Started slowly and tried to up the tempo each mile. 20:58 (7:22/:7:02/6:34). Felt good.
Th - Lunch 3 in 21:23, hot & bad head cold. PM PT 3 in 21:53.
F - 430am Ind Pk 5 in 36:03. PM 3 basin loops (3m) then Winni 5 with Dan and JJ. 58:13.
Sat - Course warm-up with TiVO 26:41. 5Km race in Plymouth NH in 17:39.5 not 17:40 :-), course warm-down with TiVO and Mark Miller. We did a warm-down, not "cool down"!
Sun - 1 hour water run in Hart pond with Petey then River o/b 6m in 47:11 with Dan , DQ, TiVO, and Andy.
Totals
Week = 60
Month = 43
Year = 1,621
Life = 108,992
Picture from last weeks Continental divide 10km trail race. Looks like I'm racing through the jungle.
M - 430am Industrial park 4 in 32:24. PM Winni 5 in 37:53. Still sore from 10km trail champs.
T - 430am Ind Pk 5 in 37:50. PM 3m out/back at Physical Therapy in 22:48.
W - 430am Ind Pk 5 in 37:28. PM 3 on the track at Gate City Striders workout. Started slowly and tried to up the tempo each mile. 20:58 (7:22/:7:02/6:34). Felt good.
Th - Lunch 3 in 21:23, hot & bad head cold. PM PT 3 in 21:53.
F - 430am Ind Pk 5 in 36:03. PM 3 basin loops (3m) then Winni 5 with Dan and JJ. 58:13.
Sat - Course warm-up with TiVO 26:41. 5Km race in Plymouth NH in 17:39.5 not 17:40 :-), course warm-down with TiVO and Mark Miller. We did a warm-down, not "cool down"!
Sun - 1 hour water run in Hart pond with Petey then River o/b 6m in 47:11 with Dan , DQ, TiVO, and Andy.
Totals
Week = 60
Month = 43
Year = 1,621
Life = 108,992
Picture from last weeks Continental divide 10km trail race. Looks like I'm racing through the jungle.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Broken
In the last 4 years I've broken five pair of orthotics. I break them all on the right foot and all in the same spot. Now I check them on the last day of the month to make sure they are not cracked. Here is my latest broken orthotic.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Weekend in NC/VA
Trip reports refer to older reports on http://www.cohp.org/
I was down in NC last weekend for the US 10km trail running championships and decided it would be a good opportunity to bag a few more county high points. Last year when I went down it was strictly state hp’s I was after. This time I was after a little bit of everything. I ran to 2 towers, one triple-divide, and 6 county high points. I was also able to sandwich in a 14th place (4th 40+) at the race, so the weekend was a success by my standards. Below are my Trip Reports for the County High points, I’ve also done TR’s on the other peaks which can be found on my blog.
Yadkin County, NC – Benchmark Click on Brushy Mountain (1,755’)
08-27-10
The previous trip report directions are still valid. It looks like one could drive up Fram road, just after exiting Route 77 onto Route 21 north. You would be able to drive right up to the pond at just under 1,600’. The dirt road just south of Pardue Hill road is also drivable to the same spot. It didn’t see any postings and there was no gate to stop you. I decided to park below Pardue Hill road, the dead end on Pardue has houses all around and I was nervous about parking the rental car there. The start of the trail may not be obvious but if you just strike out from the end of Pardue hill road you can’t miss it. It took me 17:05 to run to the top and 13:04 to run back down. I found the benchmark and the survey marker and there was also a Geodesic triangle on a tree right near the summit. I spooked a couple of deer on the way down.
Side trips to:
Mississippi/Santee/Pee Dee – Triple divide
This was a quick drive from Flat Top Mountain to Blowing Rock NC. The triple divide (three watersheds) is very close to the “Blowing Rock” from whence the town is named. I stopped in for a visit ($6) and there was a walkway with some views but mostly it was just a rip-off. The actual triple-divide location is right next to the intersection of Rock and Pinnacle roads. There is a posted driveway right next to the divide, but the woods from the road are not posted so I did a quick explore and headed on my way. I couldn’t have been out of the car more than five mininutes.
Wilkes County, NC – Thomkins Knob (4,060)
08-27-10
The previous trip report directions are valid. I chose to park at the Thompins Knob overlook, not liking the idea of leaving the rental car on the narrow shoulder of the Blue Ridge Parkway. There is a great well marked and well used trail heading somewhat parallel to the BRP from Thompins Knob overlook to the Lewis fork overlook. I ran it for less than a mile, until the trail began to drop, then bushwhacked to the summit. I stopped a bit short of the top on an overgrown false summit then ran another minute higher to the top. The summit has no view, but is very wide open even at the height of summer. It only took me 14 minutes to the top and 11 minutes back (running).
Surry County, NC & Carroll County, VA - Fisher Peak (3,580)
08-28-10
The directions to this are accurate, however there is a pretty serious wash-out at 1.4 miles on Fisher Peak road (right after the split to the left – private road to the right). A good 4-wheel drive could make it, but the Ford Focus I was driving left little doubt that I’d be running from that point. I was a bit tired and sore from racing earlier in the day, but could not pass up on this “two-fer”. The climb was steady and it was pretty hot (80’s and humid). The power lines that Don mentions in his 2004 report are now quite overgrown and I noticed a couple of “no trespassing signs”. The road seems to be an easier way to go. Mike’s report from 2000 mentions that the gate at 2.9 miles was closed but it was open when I went and it looks like it hasn’t been closed in quite some time. There were also fresh tire tracks on the ground, so a high clearance vehicle had been up recently. There were a dozen hawks circling the summit riding on the thermals. It spooked me a bit whenever a shadow crossed me, so I only spent a few minutes on the top. It was about 4m round trip from the washout and I ran it in 37:32. I imagine on a clear day the view would be great, but it was very hazy on this day.
Floyd County, VA - Buffalo Mtn (3,971 ft)
08-29-10
The previous trip reports will get you to the top, however I decided to park just as the road got sketchy, mostly because I wanted to make sure I’d get enough of a run in. As mentioned in other reports the gate was open, I’m guessing it is rarely shut as I passed by at 6:30 AM on a Sunday. It turned out I got more than expected because the “old road” is now quite overgrown. There is however an excellent summit trail that hooks a bit to the south of the mountain. The grade is pretty gentle and there are plenty of switchbacks. The footing is excellent. I decided to try and make it to the summit for sunrise but due to the longer distance I topped out just as the sun was rising above the foggy lowlands. I missed sunrise by about 20 minutes but it was still a great time to be on top. Fog completely blanketed the farmlands below. I never found the benchmark on the summit. The total round trip was about 5 miles, 11:56 to the parking lot and another 12:42 to the top. 10 minutes to take pictures and look for the BM then 10:44 down to the parking lot and another 9:44 to the car (total running time 45:07). Total climb 871’.
Patrick County, VA – Rocky Knob (3,572’)
08-29-10
The previous trip reports are correct. I parked at the Saddle overlook and ran the trail to the top. The cabin was under construction and cordoned off. This high point could also be done by parking at the overlook to the south, near the Rocky Knob overlook and information center. That would be slightly longer and would climb 372’ rather than the 192’ from the Saddle overlook. I had planned on running from one end to the other but already have enough mileage for the day and was pretty sore from racing, so I settled for the less than 1 mile (7:41) round trip.
Pictures from all of these hikes can be found at:
http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/1867
I was down in NC last weekend for the US 10km trail running championships and decided it would be a good opportunity to bag a few more county high points. Last year when I went down it was strictly state hp’s I was after. This time I was after a little bit of everything. I ran to 2 towers, one triple-divide, and 6 county high points. I was also able to sandwich in a 14th place (4th 40+) at the race, so the weekend was a success by my standards. Below are my Trip Reports for the County High points, I’ve also done TR’s on the other peaks which can be found on my blog.
Yadkin County, NC – Benchmark Click on Brushy Mountain (1,755’)
08-27-10
The previous trip report directions are still valid. It looks like one could drive up Fram road, just after exiting Route 77 onto Route 21 north. You would be able to drive right up to the pond at just under 1,600’. The dirt road just south of Pardue Hill road is also drivable to the same spot. It didn’t see any postings and there was no gate to stop you. I decided to park below Pardue Hill road, the dead end on Pardue has houses all around and I was nervous about parking the rental car there. The start of the trail may not be obvious but if you just strike out from the end of Pardue hill road you can’t miss it. It took me 17:05 to run to the top and 13:04 to run back down. I found the benchmark and the survey marker and there was also a Geodesic triangle on a tree right near the summit. I spooked a couple of deer on the way down.
Side trips to:
Rendezvous Mountain – Fire tower
This was a very short run to visit the tower, it is on the peakbagger list of “Carolina fire tower challenge”. The gate was locked when I arrived a little before 9am, so I parked off to the side and ran up (only about ¾ of a mile). The tower was blocked, but could still be climbed. I chose not too as there was a decent view just a little below the summit. I ran back to the car and arrived just as a park worker was opening the gate (at 9:15). When the gate is open you can drive to within about 500’ of the top.
Flat Top Mountain – Observation Tower
I parked at the scenic Moses Cone craft center right on the Blue Ridge Parkway. I stopped inside for a trail map, the park worker was very helpful. She told me it was 3 miles to the top, the map showed 2.8 miles, and I think it was a little less than that. The trail was excellent; it was all carriage roads that appeared to be well used. I hit the top of the tower in 24:38, took a couple of pics then headed down in 19:36 for a round trip of 44:30. I came up on a group riding horses as I neared the bottom, it looks like it gets a lot of horse traffic (but bikes are not allowed – too bad). Nice views from the summit and ice cold coke at the center afterwards!
 |
| Summit with hitching post for horses |
This was a quick drive from Flat Top Mountain to Blowing Rock NC. The triple divide (three watersheds) is very close to the “Blowing Rock” from whence the town is named. I stopped in for a visit ($6) and there was a walkway with some views but mostly it was just a rip-off. The actual triple-divide location is right next to the intersection of Rock and Pinnacle roads. There is a posted driveway right next to the divide, but the woods from the road are not posted so I did a quick explore and headed on my way. I couldn’t have been out of the car more than five mininutes.
Wilkes County, NC – Thomkins Knob (4,060)
08-27-10
The previous trip report directions are valid. I chose to park at the Thompins Knob overlook, not liking the idea of leaving the rental car on the narrow shoulder of the Blue Ridge Parkway. There is a great well marked and well used trail heading somewhat parallel to the BRP from Thompins Knob overlook to the Lewis fork overlook. I ran it for less than a mile, until the trail began to drop, then bushwhacked to the summit. I stopped a bit short of the top on an overgrown false summit then ran another minute higher to the top. The summit has no view, but is very wide open even at the height of summer. It only took me 14 minutes to the top and 11 minutes back (running).
08-28-10
The directions to this are accurate, however there is a pretty serious wash-out at 1.4 miles on Fisher Peak road (right after the split to the left – private road to the right). A good 4-wheel drive could make it, but the Ford Focus I was driving left little doubt that I’d be running from that point. I was a bit tired and sore from racing earlier in the day, but could not pass up on this “two-fer”. The climb was steady and it was pretty hot (80’s and humid). The power lines that Don mentions in his 2004 report are now quite overgrown and I noticed a couple of “no trespassing signs”. The road seems to be an easier way to go. Mike’s report from 2000 mentions that the gate at 2.9 miles was closed but it was open when I went and it looks like it hasn’t been closed in quite some time. There were also fresh tire tracks on the ground, so a high clearance vehicle had been up recently. There were a dozen hawks circling the summit riding on the thermals. It spooked me a bit whenever a shadow crossed me, so I only spent a few minutes on the top. It was about 4m round trip from the washout and I ran it in 37:32. I imagine on a clear day the view would be great, but it was very hazy on this day.
 |
| Washout where I parked |
08-29-10
The previous trip reports will get you to the top, however I decided to park just as the road got sketchy, mostly because I wanted to make sure I’d get enough of a run in. As mentioned in other reports the gate was open, I’m guessing it is rarely shut as I passed by at 6:30 AM on a Sunday. It turned out I got more than expected because the “old road” is now quite overgrown. There is however an excellent summit trail that hooks a bit to the south of the mountain. The grade is pretty gentle and there are plenty of switchbacks. The footing is excellent. I decided to try and make it to the summit for sunrise but due to the longer distance I topped out just as the sun was rising above the foggy lowlands. I missed sunrise by about 20 minutes but it was still a great time to be on top. Fog completely blanketed the farmlands below. I never found the benchmark on the summit. The total round trip was about 5 miles, 11:56 to the parking lot and another 12:42 to the top. 10 minutes to take pictures and look for the BM then 10:44 down to the parking lot and another 9:44 to the car (total running time 45:07). Total climb 871’.
Patrick County, VA – Rocky Knob (3,572’)
08-29-10
The previous trip reports are correct. I parked at the Saddle overlook and ran the trail to the top. The cabin was under construction and cordoned off. This high point could also be done by parking at the overlook to the south, near the Rocky Knob overlook and information center. That would be slightly longer and would climb 372’ rather than the 192’ from the Saddle overlook. I had planned on running from one end to the other but already have enough mileage for the day and was pretty sore from racing, so I settled for the less than 1 mile (7:41) round trip.
http://doubledmountainrunner.shutterfly.com/1867
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