Crow Pass Training

May 2015

It's hard to believe that after decades in Alaska, I'd still never done Crow Pass, a trail that traverses from Girdwood to Eagle River, slogging across rivers and waterfalls, passing majestic glaciers and glacial lakes, and bushwhacking its way through tall grass and poisonous plants in premier bear country - without cell reception. The distance is anywhere from 19-24 miles on average (estimates vary greatly). This year I signed up for the race in July, and in May I completed my first training up there with my running buddy Jeremy. We had beautiful blue skies and scenic panoramas tempting us to pull out our cameras constantly. It was so "hot" by Alaska standards that we stopped to willingly jump into a glacial lake on the way back! (By we, I mean I...Jeremy couldn't handle the complete plunge) ;) We did an out and back route from the Girdwood side which is the most scenic side. The first few miles pose a little climbing, but after that it's flat and then back downhill! I highly recommend a day trip to the glacier if you don't have time to do the whole trail.

Government Peak

Checked out Gov't Peak (near Hatcher's pass) for the first time this year, a week before the annual summit race. Despite the top being socked in, caught some beautiful views and got a great workout with two of my favorite people! Followed up with Spenard Roadhouse back in Anchorage for some Bacon Jam Burgers (which have turned me anti-vegetarian) and beer- a glorious day indeed!

Gov't Peak- via Mountain Streams B&B

Elevation gain: 3911 feet

Distance: 8 miles (?) RT

Hiking time: 2.5ish hours (?) with some running mixed in

Can't wait to run this one again on a clear day!

Eklutna Lakeside Trail

April 2015

A few favorites from a run a few months ago. No bears(!) and hardly any other people around. This trail is one of my favorite flat out-and-backs near Anchorage. The lake is looking awfully low this year...

Distance: 24 miles RT

AK SUP Chronicles: Seward

Playing around the Seward harbor, early May

Katie out for an early morning paddle on super glassy waters

3 people + 2 paddleboards :) nobody fell in!...

...but we jumped in for fun, it was so "hot"!

Leah the sea otter whisperer

Katie swimming around the 40 degree water, no big deal

sea otter!

 

Until next time.. Keep on SUP'n!

 

Symphony Lakes Trail

Just came across these pics from a few months ago: Symphony Lakes Trail, South Fork Eagle River - a favorite year round!

Banff Town

Banff, Canada March 2015