A Snowy Trail Running Workshop with Alpenflo & Go Beyond Racing
We stood in the trees of a craggy Coast Range summit, calf-deep in snow, huddled together against the rain and wind. We looked at our maps, surveyed the terrain to come, and discussed options. The Fir trees a few hundred feet from us faded from view as mist rolled in.
When we assembled at the trailhead that morning we didn’t know what we’d find up the trail, but that’s the point. Trail Running Workshops give participants the chance to practice everything they need to plan and execute adventure runs on their own, wet feet and bad weather enhances the simulation.
We start with intention. What’s the point of this trip? What kind of experience are we looking to have, and how can we best support each other to have a great day in the mountains?
In every running workshop so far, people have shown amazing support for one another. Patience, understanding, and kindness rule the day, with each person readily willing to sacrifice their own personal objectives to support the wellbeing of the group.
Alternating leaders ensures that each person learns how to navigate with a map and compass and assess conditions with the skills of the group in mind.
People sign up because they want adventure, to get out and have epic experiences. But more than that, they want to learn, help others learn, and have a great time doing it.
Back on the summit, we discussed our options and intention for the day, picked a route to match, and and started down.
The point of these workshops is to provide a supportive environment where we can empower each other with knowledge and skills to get out on some big adventures, the rain and snow that rolled in Oregon in January gave us a chance to do just that.
About the Photographer
Steven Mortinson is a freelance filmmaker and photographer. A damn fine adventure partner, Steven’s always ready with joke or snack when the going gets tough. He lives in Portland, Oregon.
Learn more about him at stevenmortinson.com and inspire your own human powered adventures by following him on instagram