Paula Edmonds's Staging Area

The terrain reminds me of the north. We even started at a crisp 26 degrees and with the wind it felt colder. At times it was hard to believe I was not just running in Vermont. Most of this course is gently rolling through the countryside. Looking at the elevation map usually does not compare well to reality; at least not when you’re from the northeast. I will admit that last hill to get up to the cave is a legitimate hill. The other three were moderate and short. That final behemoth was nasty though. Then you enter the cave and it’s a walk/jog for everyone because at first your eyes have to acclimate to the dark. Then you have to try and not slip on the occasionally wet stone path. Shortly after entering it went from a frigid outdoor temp to a very humid probably 50+ degree temp. The change seemed more sudden going back out to the cold but by then you’re dripping sweat and almost done. The caverns are really neat to look at and definitely made this a race to remember.

This was the hottest year they’ve had. Started around 60 and it was 78 by the time I finished. Thankfully I made friends with a random runner early on and it really helped those hot miles fly by. It is a relatively hilly course. There is not much shade along the route. The roads are pretty beat up in some areas but I only tripped once. The bands did not really stand out compared to other races with music. It was good for getting the state done but if I were local I probably would not run this one again.

Glad a brought along my trail shoes. The route was dirt road, crushed gravel, and pavement. There were a few bridges that were slick because of morning dew. Scenic. Peaceful. Very gradual downhill.