Alpenflo in 2021
Mt. Margaret Backountry - Photo Steven Mortinson
Why run, backpack, or ski through the mountains? Why spend hours struggling under the weight of a pack or experience the pain of aching muscles and sore joints? Why get into the mountains under your own power when a scenic drive is so much easier?
Reasons abound, of course. We each have our own motivations for exploring human powered movement in the mountains. There’s the perspective of experiencing our own insignificance. The connection to our bodies that comes from pushing them to their limit. The bonds we form with the companions we share these journeys with. The presence of mind more readily available outside of LTE coverage.
Packed light for 3 days out
My goal with Alpenflo is to create the resource I wish I’d had when I began to combine trail running, backpacking, skiing, and climbing to explore the mountains. Its three core aims are to inspire, empower, and support you to experience the transformational power of moving through mountain environments. I want Alpenflo to help you along your path, whatever your motivations.
You can expect to see a fair amount of experimentation over the next couple of years. Similar to moving in the mountains with a light pack, I want to keep Alpenflo nimble as I explore how it can serve its mission. Today I want to tell you about my trip offerings for 2021.
First, my trip schedule this year will be light. I may add another trip or two, but my current plan is for one trail running and one backpacking trip. I’ve considered a variety of options and think focusing on a few trips is the best way for me to provide you with the quality experience you deserve.
Learning to travel off-trail in the Mt. Margaret Backcountry
Trail Running - The first Alpenflo Trail Running Campout of the year went live today. At this weekend event you’ll experience a guided run through the epic Mount Margaret Backcountry near Mt. Saint Helens. You’ll connect with a small group of fellow trail runners, learn comprehensive mountain travel skills, and put your feet up in a quiet all-inclusive camp.
Backpacking - I’m planning to offer a light backpacking (with some running) trip in Olympic National Park. ONP has some gems tucked away in its seldom-visited reaches, and I can’t wait to share them with you. Carrying overnight gear will allow us to get deep into the backcountry where we’ll soak up solitude and explore areas where few people go. Expect this trip to go live to my email list in the next month or so.
On each of these trips you’ll learn skills that will help you move safely, efficiently, and joyfully through challenging terrain. I’ve spent years learning what it takes to complete long off-trail routes like the Sierra High Route, Wind River High Route, and Sawtooth High Route. With either of my trips trips, you’ll take a huge leap forward in your own ability to pull off big adventures.
To all of you who have followed along and contributed to my project, thank you. It’s been a ton of fun and I couldn’t do it without you. 2021 trail season is here, let’s go!
-JT
Portland, OR
June 9, 2021
Waking up in Olympic National Park
