Sky Pilot 14k

Race - Sep 8, 2019

Dogs No Dogs

Mixed terrain from 'so steep it's scary' to 'fast singletrack zen'. The Al's Habrich Trail and the final sections ascending on steep granite slab are highlights both from the quad burn and also the pure adventure.

Allow 2-3 hours to complete as a training run.

From the start line, the trail takes the small lollipop loop down wide and easy trail for 1.2 km then heads up the hill to Al Habrich's Trail.

The ascent up Al Habrich's Trail is moderately steep and made a little more challenging by the periodic fallen log and boulder obstacles. Near the top, there are small reprieves from the grade in the form of more open slabs and short, flat sections. After the quad-burning power hike to the summit of this trail, prepare yourself for a wild descent! Winding down steep slabs and some roped sections in the forest, this is a blast for those who enjoy technical running, but slow moving for those who are more tempered.

The subsequent 6 km of this run are descending and fast in most sections. Highlights of this section include finding some recovery running on a gentle downward sloping gravel road, then the pure ecstasy of narrow, flowing singletrack near km 9. The descent turns steeper again, but remains wide and soft, enabling a runner with healthy knees to maintain a fast pace.

The trail reconnects with a wide gravel road, and the climbing begins again, gradual at first, then winding up to a punishing grade. The climax of the climb is a section of three short, steep slabs with rope aids. From the top of these slabs, the climbing continues but the end is in sight (almost).

The top of the climb can't come soon enough, then surprises you as you emerge from the trees with only 100 m to the finish line. Sprint!