This past February, I pulled together a piece on trail running for Travel Alberta. I interviewed Bow Valley business owners and trail runners to discuss local trail culture and a heart-pounding route through Canmore, Alta. Known as the Triple Crown Challenge, the 23-km route covers Ha Ling Peak, Mount Lady MacDonald and East End of Rundle (for a total of 2,450m of vertical elevation gain). Upon completing the three mountain peaks, hikers and runners earn not only automatic bragging rights but also a free pint of beer and a commemorative glass at the Georgetown Inn. Not bad for a single-day adventure or a summer season adventure! Read more on Travel Alberta's website.
Happy Trails - 03/20/2025
In September, I registered for the Black Spur Ultra – a 54-km trail race with a solid 2,230 m of elevation – before completing my first-ever marathon. Driven by my passion for the mountains and the positive race experience of my partner, I signed up. It's an ambitious decision for someone who's done lots of road running but has spent little time on the trails (other than some backcountry camping and casual hikes). Today, I decided to also register for the Castle Alpine Trail Race, a 28-km event with even more vert than Black Spur. The two races are three weeks apart.
With countless hours of watching Courtney Dauwalter and Lucy Bartholomew videos on YouTube and researching decent trail running gear under my belt (Patagonia, please sponsor me), I'm excited to take on this summer's challenges. Any new sport will have its share of curveballs – trail running will be no different. I'll be documenting my adventure to the start line(s) here. Check back occasionally for updates, pics and likely some humbling lessons!