Megan Lawhon's Staging Area

I had a hard time finding anything about this race on the internet, so figured I might write a review for others interested.

Logistics were super easy. Packet pick up was either at the local running store in Cheyenne (about 30 minutes from the start) or you could get it race morning. Start line was at the Sherman Summit rest area off I 80 (highest rest area on the highway at about 8600′) so finding it and obtaining parking was a breeze. There were 3 distances that started at 7am (half, full, and 50k) on an out and back course. 9 total aid stops for the 50k (5 out, 4 back). You really only need to carry a flask for water/electrolytes, the stations were well stocked with snacks. The volunteers were super nice. One aid stop worker told me I reminded him of his daughter and then showed me a picture of her on the way back through. The course is on dirt roads through Medicine Bow Ntnl Forest and through Vedauwoo Recreational Area (popular climbing, mnt biking, ATV riding, and camping spot). VERY easy to follow and a pretty course. There’s a section that runs alongside I 80 for a few brief miles (not so attractive) but you can eat up the road miles pretty quickly. Most of the climbing is on the way back, gradual, and is deceptively difficult, if you’re already tired and maybe not quite used to altitude. There’s plenty of Colorado based participants to make the rest of us look like sloths :p The weather can change very rapidly in this area so layers, gloves, and a rain shell are necessary. I was on the last 5 miles when the temperature dropped about 25 degrees and a 40 mph wind blew in a hail storm (there were likely only a few 50k runners left on the course). Volunteers did come out on the course to check on everyone and see if anyone wanted a ride since it was lightning, thundering, and just generally pretty miserable- it passed over in about an hour though right as I finished (I paid for this, you bet I was gonna finish). Again, VERY small and low key race, but the two volunteers at the finish were very enthusiastic spectators and cheered everybody in! In spite of being pelted with hail for 45 minutes, I had a great time and would totally recommend for a Wyoming race.

Take aways: this is not a technical race- it’s on dirt roads, so while trail shoes aren’t necessary, gators are, for the loose dirt and little rocks. It’s also not terribly hilly. The most significant factor is the elevation between 8000′-9000′. If you live in the Front Range you won’t even notice. If you’re from sea level just drink plenty of water and slow down as needed (it’s not Mount Everest but you might feel a little more sluggish)

The weather will likely change multiple times during the day. Pack a shell, gloves, hat, and sunscreen. The course is completely accessible by vehicles so you aren’t stranded if something should go wrong (it probably won’t…)

You can veer off course to a few vault toilets at campgrounds or go behind a shrub (carry TP in case!) but otherwise don’t expect any port-a-potties.

Have fun!

The MDH Ultra distance options can sound pretty daunting- not many people register, and even fewer finish. The course isn’t super technical (coming from someone used to Appalachian humidity, rocks, and roots) but it is relentless. It’s hot, dry, barren, and the aid stations are few and far between (25-29 miles apart) so you will have to have a crew supporting you at the additional checkpoints (there are 9 check points) so be prepared to wrangle up some friends and family. You have to bring your mental game and be prepared for some long hours alone in the middle of nowhere. You’ll need a solid hydration and fueling plan, otherwise things could go downhill quickly out there. The course is well marked and easy to follow, even in the night hours because the trail markers are reflective. The RD and volunteers really care about this race and trim, mow, and make sure the entire 106 mile stretch is cleared and easy to follow.

The shirt and medal are nice, but that’s not really what ultra running is about. I came for the experience and absolutely enjoyed every painful minute. The Maah Daah Hey Trail is pretty special and I’d recommend any of the distances.

This half was part of the WV Trilogy, 94 miles of running over 3 days in a beautiful, remote section on West Virginia wilderness. You can chose one, two, or all three races. Be ready to pitch a tent or grab one of the rustic dorms, and bring EVERYTHING you need- you won’t see a gas station for 40 minutes out. The community is like no other here, the scenery is unbeatable, and this race is definitely a must do for any trail or ultra runner.

This is a small race, run through back woods, gravel roads, and fields of WV. Under and over fences, through creek beds, and up enough hills for 4,000+ feet elevation gain. There’s enough road at the start that you aren’t in a cluster once you hit the trails. Aid stations about 5 miles apart, the usual for an ultra. Fairly runnable, with the last 6-7 miles having some more rocky, technical terrain and serious uphill. Swag is a nice burnt wood medal, bottle opener for 50k, and for a little extra fee you get the shirt. Not my fastest 50k, but probably my favorite so far.