In Training: Moose Mountain

My plan was to run/hike/hobble up and down Moose Mountain for a total of 29K on Saturday. I arrived at the West Bragg Creek trails around 10ish. Thanks to Mark for the great directions. I am complete idiot sometimes when it comes to driving directions. I’ve been here two times so you would think I would not worry about getting lost. 

I was really pumped. I felt good after last weekend’s 25K so I thought I could push it on some tougher terrain. The first 4K (and a bit) covers boring logging and gravel roads. I am glad the chirping birds were there to keep me company. 

 

I knew once I reached this bridge the real fun would begin. I didn’t seen a single person until about the 6K mark. 

There’s another and shorter way up Moose but I am not sure where it starts. I was happy to have the solitude. When I reached the mountain bike trails, I began dodging cyclists. That was pretty exciting. 

By 11 a.m., it was pretty hot. I was thankful for what shade I could find. My legs were feeling good and I was determined to keep moving.  

From here on, it was all climb. All I could think about was running downhill. Gosh it was bloody hot! I brought my poles and I carried them in one hand the entire way. One hiker asked if they were broken. (Nope I like to carry them like a complete idiot.)

I wasn’t surprised to see a few of the Calgary Trail Runners flying down the mountain. If I lived this close to the mountains, I would be here nearly every day. 

You probably guessed the ending. I made it to the near top. I didn’t climb to the tower. There were tons of people milling about. I wanted to do my time and get down. 

 

I took a few minutes for pictures and to catch my breath before I started the descent. What a beautiful day. I didn’t linger too long because I still had to find a campsite for the night. 

 

It didn’t take me long to run down. In fact I had time to flip some tires. (Just kidding). I even raced a tractor. (The tractor won.)

What a perfect way to spend a Saturday. (Next post: What I did on Sunday) It was tough going. I won’t lie. My endurance needs a lot of work. 

But hey, that’s why we train – to get better.