Debbie de Leon's Staging Area

Advertised as “One of America’s Most Scenic Trail Runs” this course did not disappoint. Stunning lake views, fabulously fun and shady single track, perfect running weather, and a finish line on the beach – literally just steps from Lake Tahoe, made for an unforgettable event. The ascents were very manageable, even for my under-trained sea level lungs. I power hiked the steeper hills, as did most of the middle of the pack runners around me, but had I been in better shape I would have considered the course mostly runnable. The trail was somewhat technical; it was fairly rocky in some places and included granite steps in others. There were a few muddy places and a small stream crossing or two. There were also a few short paved sections through campgrounds.

The race began at Eagle Point Campground, which was almost a mile from the drop-off point on Highway 89. Parking for runners planning to use the shuttle was a bit closer. I didn’t account for this and arrived later than I should have. Thankfully, packet pick-up was quick and easy despite a sold-out race of 350 runners. The line for the bathrooms, on the other hand, was one of the worst I’ve seen. Many people were ditching the line to use the bushes and still the race started about 15 minutes late on account of the limited facilities.

The race began in self-seeded waves, which worked well and helped to limit the congestion on the single-track to the first mile or so. It was about 35 degrees when I arrived, but it warmed quickly and by the time I started running I was thankful I had left my long sleeve and gloves in sweat check and opted for a tank top and knickers. The course was well-marked and there were always other runners in sight. Two aide stations staffed by friendly and encouraging volunteers provided water and Gatorade on the course. The only downside of the course was a swarm of wasps who stung dozens of us shortly before mile 5. My 4-year old was also stung at the finish line. The very helpful and friendly medic said this was not common, but if you’re allergic it’s probably wise to be aware that wasps are very active in Tahoe in late summer/early fall and prepare accordingly. I also noticed more runners falling on this course than usual. I suspect this is due at least in part to the fact that it is hard not to look at the views!

Post-race food was a bit lighter in variety (potato chips, watermelon, bananas) than many trail races I’ve run – more like a road race, but there was plenty for everyone. You also had your choice between a cold Lagunitas or a soda. Swag included a fairly basic cotton/poly tee and a free photo (no medal). Age group awards were engraved pint glasses, which I thought was a fabulous idea. The race also included a free shuttle back to the start. I opted to be dropped off and picked up because I didn’t want to leave my family without a car while I ran. Pre-race communication indicated parking was very limited at the Lester Beach finish, and additional parking was 1 mile away. However, the additional parking filled quickly and some people were turned away at the entrance to D.L. Bliss Park. In my opinion these minor logistical issues are well worth the access to such a gorgeous point-to-point course, but I would probably stick with the shuttle in the future. Overall, I would give this event 4.5 stars, but I’m rounding up based on the exceptional course. This was a great trail race for someone like me who wants to experiment with running at moderate elevation for the first time. It’s definitely an event I would participate in again despite my general preference for longer races.

Overall, this was a fun and relatively easy trail race through open grassland sprinkled with wildflowers and small sections of riparian forest. I ran the longer of the two courses (10.3 miles), which was a mix of fire road, double track, single track, and short sections of pavement. Most of the hills were rolling and quite runnable. There were only a few somewhat technical, rocky sections of trail. There were also a couple of shallow stream crossings, which could be rock-hopped with minimal skill, and some unavoidable mud in the last mile or two; however, the course was not as wet or dirty as I anticipated after a season of record rain.

A local friend was able to pick up my packet for this event with a copy of my ID, which was much appreciated since I do not live locally. Packet pick-up was reportedly quick and easy. They also offered race morning pick-up.

The color, design, and material of the shirts were superb – one of my all time favorites. I arrived about half an hour prior to the start of the race and found only short lines for parking and port-a-potties despite a sold out field. Kudos to the organizers for making sure there were plenty of both. I carry my own hydration and fuel, but I noticed there were well-staffed aide stations every few miles. There was good energy crossing the finish line, and plenty of bottled water there as well. It may be worth noting that finishing medals were not included at this event. I don’t personally mind; however, it did occur to me that the race name and logo could have made for a particularly cool medal.

Post-race food consisted of pancakes and strawberries, but I cannot attest to the deliciousness of this because the line was 50-60 people deep and I decided I was too hungry/inpatient to wait. I’m a middle of the pack runner, so I suspect I arrived during peak pancake demand, still it would have been nice if the pancake table were better staffed. The only other minor downside of this race was that there were bottlenecks along the last couple miles of single track. I generally like to push my pace at the end of a race, so this was a bit frustrating and rather unusual for the end of a trail race in my experience, but nothing that would keep me from recommending this race to others. In fact, I think this would be an excellent first-time trail race.

I would definitely run another race hosted by Fleet Feet Sacramento in the future. In addition to the highlights mentioned above, the race photos were free and the proceeds for the race go towards funding an after school running program for youth at no charge to them.