Yesterday I was a bit grumpy with the slushy and slippery snow that still offered an opportunity for an unexpected post hole or two and plenty of inefficient toe-off and sliding (Gregory/Ranger route).
There is too much intermittent dry ground to bother with Microspikes or Yak Trax (unless you don't mind destroying them or removing them for each section), but it kind of sucks at times without. Today I was more accepting of the conditions and was looking at it from a glass half full perspective, as I am noticing significant improvement each day.
Went mostly easy today, just enjoying the fresh air and Sierra's company. I upped the pace a little over the final 7 or 8 minutes, but the snow was governing my efforts and pace somewhat.
Cabin: 17:35
4 Way: 37:??
Summit: 40:47 (avg HR 152)
Descent: 28:50 (avg HR 120)
Sierra
Sierra
Monday, April 5, 2010
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Saturday, 04/03/10 - Sunday, 04/04/10
Saturday, 04/03/10 Eldo/Walker
~17 miles/4,500 vertical
Met up with Tim and headed over to Eldo. The wind was just cranking and was threatening to steal my motivation, but I was eager to get in a good run. We started off easy, heading into Eldo via the Fowler shortcut. Easy pace, 13:36 to the start of the Eldo Trail. I upped the tempo on the switchbacks a bit and knew my legs were going to feel good for the day. I was rolling along pretty well, not digging at all, just going with a tempo that I knew I could hold for a long time. Made the Walker Loop in 33:46 and went clockwise. The steep stairs are mostly melted, aside from a few steps where caution is mandatory. The remainder of the loop is similar to what it has been for the past month +, lots of dry trail and also some significant stretches of snow. The weather was quite variable, sunny and warm one minute, windy, cloudy and snow squalls the next. I completed the lap in an OK for the conditions and lack of true effort 1:09:40 (avg. HR 159), took a 2 minute break, then started counter clockwise back up the hill to meet with Tim. This RT took 16:17 (avg. HR 144). I felt great and strongly considered another lap, but I was not inspired by the weather and my focus shifted to getting home to catch up on things. We took it pretty casual on the return trip, 38:24 back to the canyon (avg. HR 145) and another 9:54 (hr 132) back to the car, for a total of 3:03:37 with stops and backtracking.
Overall, I felt great on this run and feel as though if the trails were completely dry and the weather was a bit more cooperative, I might have been able to PR on the lollipop. Either way, it gave me great confidence for the upcoming RRR.
Sunday, 04/04/10 Green Mountain
I was feeling yesterday's run in my legs a bit, but the weather was great and I had nothing else going on after work, so Sierra and I headed up Gregory/Ranger. I carried Yak Trax, as I planned to put them on at the cabin, but was lazy and just kept going. The snow was slushy and slick, but I knew there was some dry sections ahead, so I just decided to forego traction altogether, as we were just taking it super easy anyways. Lot's of slipping and sliding going on. Made the cabin in 17:??, the 4-way in 38:?? and the summit in 42:33 (avg. HR 147). Took it cautious on the down, using my skiing skills to the max as I negotiated the slush with Yak Trax in hand. 28 (119 avg. HR) for the descent.
~17 miles/4,500 vertical
Met up with Tim and headed over to Eldo. The wind was just cranking and was threatening to steal my motivation, but I was eager to get in a good run. We started off easy, heading into Eldo via the Fowler shortcut. Easy pace, 13:36 to the start of the Eldo Trail. I upped the tempo on the switchbacks a bit and knew my legs were going to feel good for the day. I was rolling along pretty well, not digging at all, just going with a tempo that I knew I could hold for a long time. Made the Walker Loop in 33:46 and went clockwise. The steep stairs are mostly melted, aside from a few steps where caution is mandatory. The remainder of the loop is similar to what it has been for the past month +, lots of dry trail and also some significant stretches of snow. The weather was quite variable, sunny and warm one minute, windy, cloudy and snow squalls the next. I completed the lap in an OK for the conditions and lack of true effort 1:09:40 (avg. HR 159), took a 2 minute break, then started counter clockwise back up the hill to meet with Tim. This RT took 16:17 (avg. HR 144). I felt great and strongly considered another lap, but I was not inspired by the weather and my focus shifted to getting home to catch up on things. We took it pretty casual on the return trip, 38:24 back to the canyon (avg. HR 145) and another 9:54 (hr 132) back to the car, for a total of 3:03:37 with stops and backtracking.
Overall, I felt great on this run and feel as though if the trails were completely dry and the weather was a bit more cooperative, I might have been able to PR on the lollipop. Either way, it gave me great confidence for the upcoming RRR.
Sunday, 04/04/10 Green Mountain
I was feeling yesterday's run in my legs a bit, but the weather was great and I had nothing else going on after work, so Sierra and I headed up Gregory/Ranger. I carried Yak Trax, as I planned to put them on at the cabin, but was lazy and just kept going. The snow was slushy and slick, but I knew there was some dry sections ahead, so I just decided to forego traction altogether, as we were just taking it super easy anyways. Lot's of slipping and sliding going on. Made the cabin in 17:??, the 4-way in 38:?? and the summit in 42:33 (avg. HR 147). Took it cautious on the down, using my skiing skills to the max as I negotiated the slush with Yak Trax in hand. 28 (119 avg. HR) for the descent.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Friday, 04/02/10 Green Mountain
48 up (avg HR 143)
31 down (avg HR 121)
Tim, Sierra and I got out for a casual lap on Green this morning. The temps last night in the low 20's (or less up there) really froze the snow into some great hardpack. We went pretty easy, just catching up on the last ~year since Tim has been away living in Cali. It felt as though he had only been gone a few weeks and was great to be back on the trails with a good friend. For grins, I tested the strength of the crusty snow off the trail and it completely held me, even when stomping downhill. With Microspikes on my feet, it was somewhat reminiscent of biking the Slickrock Trail in Moab. It would be a real blast to make up some routes early in the morning if it stays cold enough.
31 down (avg HR 121)
Tim, Sierra and I got out for a casual lap on Green this morning. The temps last night in the low 20's (or less up there) really froze the snow into some great hardpack. We went pretty easy, just catching up on the last ~year since Tim has been away living in Cali. It felt as though he had only been gone a few weeks and was great to be back on the trails with a good friend. For grins, I tested the strength of the crusty snow off the trail and it completely held me, even when stomping downhill. With Microspikes on my feet, it was somewhat reminiscent of biking the Slickrock Trail in Moab. It would be a real blast to make up some routes early in the morning if it stays cold enough.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Monday-Wednesday 3/29 - 3/31/10 and March Summary
I’m starting to feel a bit burdened by feeling that I have to blog daily, as I am sure is obvious with my posts. In my mind, they have morphed into a “just the facts” training log to help me to remember what to plug into my excel spreadsheet and to satisfy my legions of fans (3 or 4 regular readers i.e. sympathetic friends). I’ve considered just stopping all together, who really cares that I ran up Green, yet again in X amount of minutes. Some things are just more important, like reading how many times my friends ran up Green Mountain and how long it took them. I might just start posting every few days, or each week unless something really exciting comes up.
Monday 3/29/10 Green Mountain
Up Gregory/Ranger in 49
Down Greenman/Saddle/Amphi in 32
Started off with Aron and just went easy pace with him through Gregory Canyon to the cabin (24 minutes/avg. HR ~115). From the cabin, I went ahead, a little quicker, but not too fast as conditions sucked and I was not feeling too snappy or motivated (25 from the cabin to the summit, avg HR 147). After tagging the top, I gingerly picked my way down the trail and met Aron about halfway down the switchbacks. I just hiked back to the top with him and we headed down Greenman/Saddle/Amphi route. The snow was super soft because of the warm temps and was super slippery even with the Microspikes, not to mention you never knew whether or not you were going to stay on top, or sink into the snow up to your knee. The descent was a very slow and cautious 32 minutes with an avg. HR of 95. Bumped into Tony as he was heading up Amphitheater for his second lap of the day.
Tuesday 3/30/10 Green Mountain/Flagstaff
Felt great today, in part aided by the ~80 degree temperatures. I first intended to do a few laps on Sanitas as I was sick of the snow, but some last minute change in plans saw me at Green again, as I just can’t help myself and I knew Sierra would appreciate the snow on a warm day. It was the first day I felt as though I could confidently leave behind gloves, arm warmers, wind breaker or things of the like.
I ran a decent pace through Gregory Canyon, pushing at times, holding back some at other times to wait on Sierra or at least make sure she was still on pace. Passed the cabin in 16:20 and knew the upper half would not be comparable, so I kept up a steady pace, but didn’t really knock myself out as the snow was a bit of a governor.
Made the top in 39:55 (165 avg. HR), spent a moment or two drinking in the beautiful day and then cautiously made my way down through the soft and sometimes trap door snow.
The descent took 28 minutes (avg. 132 HR) and I still did not feel at all satiated. I contemplated a second lap, but due to time concerns, I decided to go with Flagstaff instead. The trail was in excellent condition, dry all the way to the last ~2 minutes. Made the top in 19:59 (avg. 165 HR) Back down in 13:36 (avg. 142).
Wednesday 3/31/10 Green Mountain
I was to meet my good friend Nate for a trip up Green, to kick off his training for his first Pikes Peak Ascent this coming August. A last minute meeting at work had me getting out the door 30 minutes late, so I called Nate and told him to get started (did not get on the trail until 5pm). Not sure how far ahead he was, I pushed a little at first hoping to catch him, but my legs did not feel all that springy, so I just backed off a bit and went a comfortable pace. The day was 20+ degrees below the predicted high which was a bit of a disappointment after the near 80 degrees on Tuesday, but the sun came out on the upper half to bolster spirits a bit. I found Nate a minute or two below the summit basking on a rock, as he had been waiting up there for quite some time. I tagged the top in 41:52 (avg. HR 155) and we then picked our way down through the trap door snow past the 4-way (still knee deep or more in spots if you punch through). The descent was a casual 30:08 (avg HR 124).
Despite the copious amounts of snow blanketing the trails, March was a pretty good month for me. I have been particularly motivated to get myself into reasonable fitness for the upcoming RRR on April 17th and was able to get out for a run all but a few days where life got in the way, or I felt as though I needed a rest day.
Though sometimes I feel like a bit of a slacker comparing my speed/numbers to Tony (I can’t forget that he is one of the handful of the most elite at this stuff), this was my biggest March ever and 3 biggest month ever. I am in the best shape I have ever been in leading up to the Grand Canyon and certainly the most fit I have been in March. I feel as though the snow is now my most significant limiting factor at this point and my enthusiasm is as high as can be. It also helps to have great partners to share the journey with, Brandon, Tony, Homie, Wayne, Aron, Mike O, Nate, Allison, Sierra (wish Dave M. was still here).
By the numbers:
80,350 vertical feet
212 miles (seems like double that though as most of that was in/on snow or mud)
24 Green Mountain Ascents
1 Bear
1 S. Boulder
1 Sanitas
2 Flagstaff
1 14er (Antero)
1 Skyline Traverse
2 trips out to Walker Ranch from Eldo
Monday 3/29/10 Green Mountain
Up Gregory/Ranger in 49
Down Greenman/Saddle/Amphi in 32
Started off with Aron and just went easy pace with him through Gregory Canyon to the cabin (24 minutes/avg. HR ~115). From the cabin, I went ahead, a little quicker, but not too fast as conditions sucked and I was not feeling too snappy or motivated (25 from the cabin to the summit, avg HR 147). After tagging the top, I gingerly picked my way down the trail and met Aron about halfway down the switchbacks. I just hiked back to the top with him and we headed down Greenman/Saddle/Amphi route. The snow was super soft because of the warm temps and was super slippery even with the Microspikes, not to mention you never knew whether or not you were going to stay on top, or sink into the snow up to your knee. The descent was a very slow and cautious 32 minutes with an avg. HR of 95. Bumped into Tony as he was heading up Amphitheater for his second lap of the day.
Tuesday 3/30/10 Green Mountain/Flagstaff
Felt great today, in part aided by the ~80 degree temperatures. I first intended to do a few laps on Sanitas as I was sick of the snow, but some last minute change in plans saw me at Green again, as I just can’t help myself and I knew Sierra would appreciate the snow on a warm day. It was the first day I felt as though I could confidently leave behind gloves, arm warmers, wind breaker or things of the like.
I ran a decent pace through Gregory Canyon, pushing at times, holding back some at other times to wait on Sierra or at least make sure she was still on pace. Passed the cabin in 16:20 and knew the upper half would not be comparable, so I kept up a steady pace, but didn’t really knock myself out as the snow was a bit of a governor.
Made the top in 39:55 (165 avg. HR), spent a moment or two drinking in the beautiful day and then cautiously made my way down through the soft and sometimes trap door snow.
The descent took 28 minutes (avg. 132 HR) and I still did not feel at all satiated. I contemplated a second lap, but due to time concerns, I decided to go with Flagstaff instead. The trail was in excellent condition, dry all the way to the last ~2 minutes. Made the top in 19:59 (avg. 165 HR) Back down in 13:36 (avg. 142).
Wednesday 3/31/10 Green Mountain
I was to meet my good friend Nate for a trip up Green, to kick off his training for his first Pikes Peak Ascent this coming August. A last minute meeting at work had me getting out the door 30 minutes late, so I called Nate and told him to get started (did not get on the trail until 5pm). Not sure how far ahead he was, I pushed a little at first hoping to catch him, but my legs did not feel all that springy, so I just backed off a bit and went a comfortable pace. The day was 20+ degrees below the predicted high which was a bit of a disappointment after the near 80 degrees on Tuesday, but the sun came out on the upper half to bolster spirits a bit. I found Nate a minute or two below the summit basking on a rock, as he had been waiting up there for quite some time. I tagged the top in 41:52 (avg. HR 155) and we then picked our way down through the trap door snow past the 4-way (still knee deep or more in spots if you punch through). The descent was a casual 30:08 (avg HR 124).
Despite the copious amounts of snow blanketing the trails, March was a pretty good month for me. I have been particularly motivated to get myself into reasonable fitness for the upcoming RRR on April 17th and was able to get out for a run all but a few days where life got in the way, or I felt as though I needed a rest day.
Though sometimes I feel like a bit of a slacker comparing my speed/numbers to Tony (I can’t forget that he is one of the handful of the most elite at this stuff), this was my biggest March ever and 3 biggest month ever. I am in the best shape I have ever been in leading up to the Grand Canyon and certainly the most fit I have been in March. I feel as though the snow is now my most significant limiting factor at this point and my enthusiasm is as high as can be. It also helps to have great partners to share the journey with, Brandon, Tony, Homie, Wayne, Aron, Mike O, Nate, Allison, Sierra (wish Dave M. was still here).
By the numbers:
80,350 vertical feet
212 miles (seems like double that though as most of that was in/on snow or mud)
24 Green Mountain Ascents
1 Bear
1 S. Boulder
1 Sanitas
2 Flagstaff
1 14er (Antero)
1 Skyline Traverse
2 trips out to Walker Ranch from Eldo
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sunday, 03/28/10 Green Mountain
Spring is back, low 60's today which is slowly melting the snow. Bumped into Brandon who was returning from the summit after running there from home, the bumped in Rex and Caroline. Much of Gregory Canyon is melting out, above that it is all snow, but the trail is getting a bit wider and seeing more traffic. Footing was decent with Microspikes on the up and I felt more efficient than in days past. I went pretty casual, just enjoying the day and going Sierra's pace.
As Brandon warned, the down was really slick due to the sloppy slush and soft snow, so I just went very easy on the down as well.
Up Gregory/Ranger: 44:01 Avg. HR 143, Max 158
Down Gregory/Ranger: 29:10 Avg. HR 115, Max 133
As Brandon warned, the down was really slick due to the sloppy slush and soft snow, so I just went very easy on the down as well.
Up Gregory/Ranger: 44:01 Avg. HR 143, Max 158
Down Gregory/Ranger: 29:10 Avg. HR 115, Max 133
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Saturday, 03/27/10 Green Mountain
Allison and I were looking for a tidy morning workout, so what better than Green?
Her plan was to just hike Amphi/Saddle, then at the Greenman jct., head down toward Ranger and I would go to the top and catch her on the way down.
Though my quads were slightly tired from 3 laps on Green the previous day, I felt surprisingly good and was making OK time despite the conditions and moderate effort. After our stomping the trail yesterday and those who had packed it afterwards, condtions were pretty good in spots, although a bit loose and narrow on the upper 1/4.
I made the summit in 41:20, spent a moment on the summit rock and then ran back down Greenman until I met up with Allison at the Greenman/Ranger jct.. Running downhill, I realized that my downhill muscles were a little sore (vs. my uphill muscles only being a little tired). My arms and shoulders were also a little sore, maybe from all the balancing in the narrow track.
I was dressed just right for running, but shortly before meeting up with Allison, the brief spell of sunshine we enjoyed on the ascent faded and it began to snow lightly. Once my run morphed into a hike, I got really cold and was glad to get back to the car and blast the heat. Had I been solo, I might have considered a second lap just for grins.
Her plan was to just hike Amphi/Saddle, then at the Greenman jct., head down toward Ranger and I would go to the top and catch her on the way down.
Though my quads were slightly tired from 3 laps on Green the previous day, I felt surprisingly good and was making OK time despite the conditions and moderate effort. After our stomping the trail yesterday and those who had packed it afterwards, condtions were pretty good in spots, although a bit loose and narrow on the upper 1/4.
I made the summit in 41:20, spent a moment on the summit rock and then ran back down Greenman until I met up with Allison at the Greenman/Ranger jct.. Running downhill, I realized that my downhill muscles were a little sore (vs. my uphill muscles only being a little tired). My arms and shoulders were also a little sore, maybe from all the balancing in the narrow track.
I was dressed just right for running, but shortly before meeting up with Allison, the brief spell of sunshine we enjoyed on the ascent faded and it began to snow lightly. Once my run morphed into a hike, I got really cold and was glad to get back to the car and blast the heat. Had I been solo, I might have considered a second lap just for grins.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Friday, 03/26/10 3 Laps on Green Mountain
Tony and I had been discussing options for a Friday long run throughout the week, but the storm on Tues/Weds had us considering a few laps on Green depending on conditions. Thursday I spent a few hours stomping down the trail with snowshoes hoping to make it suitable for reasonably paced laps. That and afternoon traffic set the trails up to be in reasonable shape.
Lap 1: We headed up Gregory/Ranger to the ridge together chatting away with me setting pace. My new HRM and my thighs were telling me that if I have any hope of 3 laps, that I should back off the pace a touch. I let Tony pass and he got a minute or two ahead and was nice enough to wait for me on the summit. For a change of scenery, we headed down Greenman/Saddle/Amphi. The upper part of the trail was one foot width wide and was a bit of a balancing act in spots, but eventually widened a bit and actually made for good running.
Lap 2: Same a lap 1, but I was about a minute slower (same pace or maybe a little faster, but I stopped countless times to adjust my microspikes that just don't fit well on my lighter (smaller) shoes. Tony was a bit quicker on this lap and started to open the gap on me at the top of Gregory and was once again nice enough to wait on the summit for me.
Lap 3: After a quick bite of food at the Element aid station, some water and a change of shoes (for me), we decided to take different routes to the summit. Since I knew I might be walking a bit more, I would rather walk up steep, so I went up Amphi/Saddle/Greenman while Tony opted for more of the same. I felt surprisingly good (though not really moving that fast) and felt progessively better as I went up, but started to lose a bit of steam near the talus field ~2/3-3/4 of the way up, at about the same time trail conditions deteriorated a bit (hard to notice on the way down, but very evident on the way up when tired). As expected, Tony was on the summit waiting and we headed back down the way I had just "ran", enjoying the now sunny day and enjoying good conversation. We contemplated a second lap, but ultimately decided that 3 was enough with the snow, maybe when things pack down more or dry out.
An awesome day, great workout and great company. Thanks to Tony for pushing me, it would have been tempting to bail in the middle or at least slack off even more than I did had I been solo.
Splits:
Lap 1 Ascent: 44:15 Avg. HR 166, 176 Max
Lap 1 Descent: 22:??
Lap 2 Ascent: 45:?? Avg. HR 171, 180 Max
Lap 2 Descent: 22:41 Avg. HR 158, 165 Max
Lap 3 Ascent: 46:54 Avg. HR 168, 174 Max
Lap 3 Descent: 22:13 Avg. HR 156, 168 Max
Lap 1: We headed up Gregory/Ranger to the ridge together chatting away with me setting pace. My new HRM and my thighs were telling me that if I have any hope of 3 laps, that I should back off the pace a touch. I let Tony pass and he got a minute or two ahead and was nice enough to wait for me on the summit. For a change of scenery, we headed down Greenman/Saddle/Amphi. The upper part of the trail was one foot width wide and was a bit of a balancing act in spots, but eventually widened a bit and actually made for good running.
Lap 2: Same a lap 1, but I was about a minute slower (same pace or maybe a little faster, but I stopped countless times to adjust my microspikes that just don't fit well on my lighter (smaller) shoes. Tony was a bit quicker on this lap and started to open the gap on me at the top of Gregory and was once again nice enough to wait on the summit for me.
Lap 3: After a quick bite of food at the Element aid station, some water and a change of shoes (for me), we decided to take different routes to the summit. Since I knew I might be walking a bit more, I would rather walk up steep, so I went up Amphi/Saddle/Greenman while Tony opted for more of the same. I felt surprisingly good (though not really moving that fast) and felt progessively better as I went up, but started to lose a bit of steam near the talus field ~2/3-3/4 of the way up, at about the same time trail conditions deteriorated a bit (hard to notice on the way down, but very evident on the way up when tired). As expected, Tony was on the summit waiting and we headed back down the way I had just "ran", enjoying the now sunny day and enjoying good conversation. We contemplated a second lap, but ultimately decided that 3 was enough with the snow, maybe when things pack down more or dry out.
An awesome day, great workout and great company. Thanks to Tony for pushing me, it would have been tempting to bail in the middle or at least slack off even more than I did had I been solo.
Splits:
Lap 1 Ascent: 44:15 Avg. HR 166, 176 Max
Lap 1 Descent: 22:??
Lap 2 Ascent: 45:?? Avg. HR 171, 180 Max
Lap 2 Descent: 22:41 Avg. HR 158, 165 Max
Lap 3 Ascent: 46:54 Avg. HR 168, 174 Max
Lap 3 Descent: 22:13 Avg. HR 156, 168 Max
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Thursday, 03/25/10 Green Mountain
Today's plan was to spend the day hiking with Allison and use my snowshoes to stomp down a nice packed trail. We started around 11am up the Gregory Canyon Trail, where I put the snowshoes on at the second wood bridge. There had been enough traffic through here that using the snowshoes helped pack the trail a bit, but were mostly a formality. Above the ranger cabin, footprints quickly diminished, until the Greenman/Ranger junction, where there eventually were Kraig's post hole tracks from yesterday and his fresh footprints from this morning in his old tracks. I made deliberate and forceful small steps, pounding down the snow the best I could, making several passes in spots and widening where necessary. Higher on the ridge, I was amazed at how much snow there was and the depth and placement of the snow drifts, as the most recent storm blew in from the North. The snow got so deep, I could tell that Kraig had been struggling his last two trips, must have been an epic battle, as evidenced by his "sack tracks".
We eventually made the top and took a very long break on the summit rock before heading back down. I was able to admire my handiwork on the descent and further pack the trail with even better affect with more forceful downhill impact (though I ate it a couple of times getting caught up in my snowshoes) and warmer temps to pack the snow.
Planning on taking advantage of my handiwork tomorrow with a few laps.
We eventually made the top and took a very long break on the summit rock before heading back down. I was able to admire my handiwork on the descent and further pack the trail with even better affect with more forceful downhill impact (though I ate it a couple of times getting caught up in my snowshoes) and warmer temps to pack the snow.
Planning on taking advantage of my handiwork tomorrow with a few laps.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Wednesday, 03/24/10 Green Mountain
Homie joined me for a trudge up Green Mountain in the ~2 feet of fresh snow we got last night. There was one set of footprints to follow to the top via Amphi/Saddle/Greenman (actually two, but #2 walked in the tracks of the first), I am guessing it was Kraig and/or Tony. They were up only tracks and they were somewhat helpful, but near the top, footing was tricky and there was some post holing going on.
We backtracked the same way and the two of us descending did the trail a lot of good, as descending helps pack the trail more that ascending. Hoping to head out there with snowshoes tomorrow to really pack things down and get it set up for laps on Friday.
Up in an easy/conversational 58
Down in a cautious ~28
We backtracked the same way and the two of us descending did the trail a lot of good, as descending helps pack the trail more that ascending. Hoping to head out there with snowshoes tomorrow to really pack things down and get it set up for laps on Friday.
Up in an easy/conversational 58
Down in a cautious ~28
Monday, March 22, 2010
Monday, 03/22/10 Green Mountain
Started off easy up through Gregory Canyon, Sierra and I were in perfect sync, just cruising along. My legs and lungs felt great and I felt as though I could push harder if I wanted, but just above the cabin, I started to bonk big time. All I could think about was food and how much I regretted not bringing a GU and Microspikes, as traction was not nearly as good as yesterday. The descent was slick and my energy levels were quickly dropping. I was slipping all over and uncoordinated on the snow and ice, then my feet were having trouble getting over and around the rocks back through Gregory. Luckily I had some food in the car which prevented an emergency trip through the Wendys drive through (I never do this, but was contemplating it seriously for a while).
Splits:
Cabin: 17:55
4-way: 39:44
Summit: 43:26
Descent: 32
Splits:
Cabin: 17:55
4-way: 39:44
Summit: 43:26
Descent: 32
Sunday, 03/21/10 Green Mountain
Met up with Homie and Aron after work at the Gregory TH. My plan was to put in a solid effort, but with the new snow that I knew would be mostly slush down low and who knows up high, I was not too committed to any aspirations of a fast time, just a solid workout. I started off up the Gregory Canyon Trail with John and Aron for the first few minutes, then upped the tempo a bit after the first bridge (this involved having to elbow Aron out of the way, as he was deliberately blocking ;)).
Conditions were very muddy, slushy and overall wet through Gregory. Once the trail leveled for a bit, there was plenty of packed snow, but it was wet and easy to sink in and slip, but nothing too terrible. I made the Ranger Cabin in a not too pressed 17:20. From the Ranger Hut, conditions improved somewhat and I just ran a steady tempo, going on the high side of moderate but never really digging deep and felt comfortable. I pushed a bit harder over the last 6 or so minutes, hoping to sneak in under 40. There were still some slushy/slippy areas that slowed things a little, but overall conditions were quite reasonable compared to the previous day. I left the Microspikes behind, as I figured they would just be balling up on such a warm day and I think it was the best decision for the conditions.
I made the 4-way in 35:59, then the summit in 39:38, where I made a u-turn and headed back to meet John and Aron just below the switchbacks on the ridge. I hiked back up with them and we all ran back down together at a cautious/converstional pace (down in 30). With temps in the high 50's it felt as though Spring has returned (temporarily at least).
Conditions were very muddy, slushy and overall wet through Gregory. Once the trail leveled for a bit, there was plenty of packed snow, but it was wet and easy to sink in and slip, but nothing too terrible. I made the Ranger Cabin in a not too pressed 17:20. From the Ranger Hut, conditions improved somewhat and I just ran a steady tempo, going on the high side of moderate but never really digging deep and felt comfortable. I pushed a bit harder over the last 6 or so minutes, hoping to sneak in under 40. There were still some slushy/slippy areas that slowed things a little, but overall conditions were quite reasonable compared to the previous day. I left the Microspikes behind, as I figured they would just be balling up on such a warm day and I think it was the best decision for the conditions.
I made the 4-way in 35:59, then the summit in 39:38, where I made a u-turn and headed back to meet John and Aron just below the switchbacks on the ridge. I hiked back up with them and we all ran back down together at a cautious/converstional pace (down in 30). With temps in the high 50's it felt as though Spring has returned (temporarily at least).
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Saturday, 03/20/10 A day for pants on Green Mountain
To celebrate the coming of Spring at 11:32am this morning, Allison, Sierra and I met up with Brandon for a trip up Green. As we were starting, Tony jogged by and we chatted with him for a moment and he was on his way.
Brandon and I got ahead of Allison through Gregory, planning to meet up either at the summit, or on our way down. We jogged some and walked a bunch, as it seemed almost pointless trying to run in the fresh, unconsolidated snow, just cruising (read slogging) along at conversational pace.
As expected, the depth of the snow increased as we got higher and the track ahead of us was reduced to one person (two if you count Brandon who I made go first). The snow went from shin deep, to knee deep, to mid thigh and even waist deep if you stepped off the trail. Certainly the most snow we have had all season.
Above the 4-way (which we reached after 1:01), we were surprised to have Tony catch up with us, as he had opted to run the upper half of Flagstaff, then West Ridge. I think we made the top in about 1:09 and spent a little while chatting, taking in the views and enjoying the warmish sun.
We ran back down and bumped into Sierra, then Allison coming up the switchbacks below the 4-way. I said my goodbyes to Brandon and Tony and headed back up with Allison. I was happy to have the pack full of extra hat/gloves and the jacket tied around my waist, as it got much colder as my effort decreased and my wet clothes froze up.
After another 10 minute break on Green, we headed back down and we were pretty cold and I sure was glad to have pants on. I think Brandon and Tony were envious, as they were wearing short running shorts and dressed for summer, even though temps were in the low teens earlier in the morning. I think I even heard Tony mutter something about wishing he had worn tights for all the postholing he did on West Ridge.
It ended up being almost a 3 hour day and we were of course over-dressed and hot descending through Gregory Canyon. Despite the slow conditions, it was an awesome day out with great company. Funny how I never get sick of this peak, always a new experience.
Brandon and I got ahead of Allison through Gregory, planning to meet up either at the summit, or on our way down. We jogged some and walked a bunch, as it seemed almost pointless trying to run in the fresh, unconsolidated snow, just cruising (read slogging) along at conversational pace.
As expected, the depth of the snow increased as we got higher and the track ahead of us was reduced to one person (two if you count Brandon who I made go first). The snow went from shin deep, to knee deep, to mid thigh and even waist deep if you stepped off the trail. Certainly the most snow we have had all season.
Above the 4-way (which we reached after 1:01), we were surprised to have Tony catch up with us, as he had opted to run the upper half of Flagstaff, then West Ridge. I think we made the top in about 1:09 and spent a little while chatting, taking in the views and enjoying the warmish sun.
We ran back down and bumped into Sierra, then Allison coming up the switchbacks below the 4-way. I said my goodbyes to Brandon and Tony and headed back up with Allison. I was happy to have the pack full of extra hat/gloves and the jacket tied around my waist, as it got much colder as my effort decreased and my wet clothes froze up.
After another 10 minute break on Green, we headed back down and we were pretty cold and I sure was glad to have pants on. I think Brandon and Tony were envious, as they were wearing short running shorts and dressed for summer, even though temps were in the low teens earlier in the morning. I think I even heard Tony mutter something about wishing he had worn tights for all the postholing he did on West Ridge.
It ended up being almost a 3 hour day and we were of course over-dressed and hot descending through Gregory Canyon. Despite the slow conditions, it was an awesome day out with great company. Funny how I never get sick of this peak, always a new experience.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Thursday, 03/18/10 Eldo/Walker
This was a repeat of last Saturdays "long" run (or maybe I should call that "longer" run) and I was itching to go a bit faster. I had high hopes of pushing myself really hard, but my legs were having none of it.
I used the approach into Eldo as a warm up, starting from where the road turns to dirt and taking the usual game trail/Fowler Trail approach. The Fowler Trail, though flat, was a bit scary, as it was water polished ice and I noticed the sometimes large drop to the right more than normal. I tiptoed through here gingerly.
I topped off my bottle at the visitors center and I was on my way up the initially steep Eldorado Trail, just jogging it out, not really pushing at all and trying to take it easy on my heavy and somewhat fatigued legs. I thought about just running to Walker and turning around, but figured I would just take it one step at a time and see what happens. I hit the Walker loop in 37 minutes even, not great, but 2 minutes faster than last weekend (mainly because I had a few delays last weekend, but I'll take the 2 minute advantage).
Again I went clockwise so I could ascend the dangerous stairs above the cliffs next to the river. They have melted a little, but there is one spot on the highest point where I would not want to be going down without traction right now and it was even a bit dicey going up. There was a little less snow/ice on the trail, but what was left is becoming water polished and bulletproof. I pretty much gave in to just casual jogging and it felt as though I was going much slower than last week, but I ended up 2 minutes quicker on the loop as well and was now 4 minutes ahead of last week. This is where the comparisons end though, as I turned around last week to hike with Allison and Emily, but today I kept pushing.
Though I was hurting a bit, I figured it would be good for me to push some on tired legs and though I wanted to back off, I kept upping the pace and intensity and actually started to feel better as I did this. Must have been adreneline or delirium, I'm not sure.
All in all a great run due to the weather, it was fun just being out in the warm sun enjoying the day, knowing how crappy and snowy it is going to be tomorrow. Though I did not run as fast/feel as good as I hoped, I was a bit quicker than last weekend despite it feeling like I had scaled back the intensity due to my heavy legs.
Splits:
Warmup to start of Eldo Trail/Visitors Center: 16 minutes
Started timer Eldo to Walker: 37 minutes
Walker Loop: 1:14 for the loop/1:51 from Eldo
Back to Eldo: 2:25 (not including the 16 minute warmup)
Back to car: 9 minutes
Total: 2:50
I used the approach into Eldo as a warm up, starting from where the road turns to dirt and taking the usual game trail/Fowler Trail approach. The Fowler Trail, though flat, was a bit scary, as it was water polished ice and I noticed the sometimes large drop to the right more than normal. I tiptoed through here gingerly.
I topped off my bottle at the visitors center and I was on my way up the initially steep Eldorado Trail, just jogging it out, not really pushing at all and trying to take it easy on my heavy and somewhat fatigued legs. I thought about just running to Walker and turning around, but figured I would just take it one step at a time and see what happens. I hit the Walker loop in 37 minutes even, not great, but 2 minutes faster than last weekend (mainly because I had a few delays last weekend, but I'll take the 2 minute advantage).
Again I went clockwise so I could ascend the dangerous stairs above the cliffs next to the river. They have melted a little, but there is one spot on the highest point where I would not want to be going down without traction right now and it was even a bit dicey going up. There was a little less snow/ice on the trail, but what was left is becoming water polished and bulletproof. I pretty much gave in to just casual jogging and it felt as though I was going much slower than last week, but I ended up 2 minutes quicker on the loop as well and was now 4 minutes ahead of last week. This is where the comparisons end though, as I turned around last week to hike with Allison and Emily, but today I kept pushing.
Though I was hurting a bit, I figured it would be good for me to push some on tired legs and though I wanted to back off, I kept upping the pace and intensity and actually started to feel better as I did this. Must have been adreneline or delirium, I'm not sure.
All in all a great run due to the weather, it was fun just being out in the warm sun enjoying the day, knowing how crappy and snowy it is going to be tomorrow. Though I did not run as fast/feel as good as I hoped, I was a bit quicker than last weekend despite it feeling like I had scaled back the intensity due to my heavy legs.
Splits:
Warmup to start of Eldo Trail/Visitors Center: 16 minutes
Started timer Eldo to Walker: 37 minutes
Walker Loop: 1:14 for the loop/1:51 from Eldo
Back to Eldo: 2:25 (not including the 16 minute warmup)
Back to car: 9 minutes
Total: 2:50
Wednesday, 03/17/10 Green Mountain
Easy day with Sierra up Gregory Ranger. Warm, sunny, slushy.
18:?? cabin
41 summit
1:06 RT
18:?? cabin
41 summit
1:06 RT
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