Saturday, August 28, 2010

Beartooth Run

Distances: 4.2 mile, 8.4 mile
http://www.beartoothevents.com/

Despite its long history the event didn’t draw many runners. Both races are point to point, finishing at the Vista Point scenic pull-out. The races start at the same time, with the shorter one starting at about the midpoint of the longer one, farther on up the switchbacks. Buses shuttle racers from the Lake Fork parking area to the starting lines. The buses are exclusively for one race or the other so make sure you know which is which! Plastic bags are provided to carry warm, dry clothing to the finish.

The course is all uphill with a 4% average grade and middle and back-of-the-pack runners can run most of it. Elevation gain is about 2000 feet for the 8.4 mile race. With the finish line at over 9000 feet elevation, you will likely notice the elevation (and the amazing views!) before the race is over. The number of water stations was more than adequate. (I don’t believe any offered snacks.) Due to the early start, the course lies almost entirely in the shade. It was a cool with no wind at the start and most people went with bare arms or shoulders. However, with the big change in elevation and exposure, unexpected winds could make it miserable for slower runners looking at a couple hours on the course without enough clothing.

Motels in nearby Red Lodge are pricey this time of year; therefore, many people camp at one of the nearby campgrounds.
****reviewed by a guest reviewer****

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