The Evergreen Trail Race Series is a beloved annual tradition in our mountain community, bringing together runners of all levels to embrace the beauty and challenge of Evergreen’s rugged terrain. As spring approaches, the excitement builds as locals and visitors alike begin their training for this four-race series, each offering its unique blend of scenic views and physical endurance.
No matter your experience level, this guide will equip you with all the essential information to prepare for and fully enjoy the Evergreen Trail Race Series. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the trails and the excitement of the race.
Overview of the Evergreen Trail Race
The Evergreen Trail Race Series is a traditional race that has been going on for years. Weaving through the top trail locations and miles of peaks in Evergreen, this race is something no runner wants to miss! Race dates, costs, sponsors, and locations change yearly but remain similar.
Check the official website for any updated information on the event!
Race Dates and Locations for 2024
- June 22: Elk Meadow Trail Race 5k & 10k
- July 13: Evergreen Mountain Race 15k
- August 3: Staunton State Park 20k
- September 14: Bergen Peak Eleven Mile
Information on the Four Races
Prepare yourself to be challenged with the four races included in the Evergreen Trail Race Series. Each trail has its own unique challenges, scenic views, and rewards that make all the training worth it.
Race One: Evergreen Meadow Trail Race 5k & 10k
Starting at the Pioneer Trail and working clockwise around the meadow, the Evergreen Meadow Trail Race is a moderately challenging but beautiful trail to start off the race series.
The race allows runners to run a 10k or a 5k, both trails starting at Buchanan Park Recreational Center and looping back around to end at the Meadow.
Race Two: Evergreen Mountain 15k
The Staunton State Park 20k trail race is a moderately rough trail, with elevation gains reaching a max of 9,579 at Eagle Cliff Overlook. The view makes training for this epic half-marathon all the more worth it! Race registration is available up until the day of the race!
Race Three: Staunton State Park 20k
The Staunton State Park 20k trail race is a moderately rough trail, with elevation gains reaching a max of 9,579 at Eagle Cliff Overlook. The view makes training for this epic half-marathon all the more worth it! Race registration is available up until the day of the race!
Race Four: Bergen Peak Eleven Mile
The eleven-mile race at Bergen Peak is another popular trail with gorgeous views, reaching a top elevation of just under 9,000 feet. For this race, meet at Buchanan Park Recreational Center near the Pioneer Trail Head. There is limited availability for this race, so register in advance!
Race Preparation and Training
When it comes to preparing for a big race like the ones in the Evergreen Trail Race Series, you’ll want to start early. While the fun series is designed for experienced trail runners, it is open to anyone willing to put in the hard work and dedication required for success.
Here are some of the best tips for getting ready for the Trail Race Series:
- Create a routine, and stick with it. Create a routine that is best for you and your schedule. Stick with your routine, take it one day at a time, and trust the process!
- Invest in the proper gear. When it comes to getting the essential gear and equipment for trail running, it’s important to know what to invest in! Train in the same shoes you will be doing the race in, and don’t wear new shoes on race day!
- Invest time in your training. It’s recommended to give yourself about 13 weeks of training to fully prepare for something like the Evergreen Trail Race. Follow the 10% rule (add 10% more total miles every week), and vary your runs.
- Don’t skip on the strength training. Strength training focuses on your whole body, and builds muscle that will help prevent injury during intense runs. When doing strength training, focus on compound exercises.
- Nutrition. Keeping up with nutrition is one of the most important parts of preparing for a race! It’s recommended to have a diet that is low in fiber and high in carbs. Make sure to focus on long-term nutrition, and fuel yourself with hydration and electrolytes in the days leading up to the race.
- Take breaks. Your body needs the rest! Take walking breaks, and give your body time to recover. Sleep, stretch, and dedicate days to focus on recovery.
- Change up location. Train in different places to get used to running on different types of surfaces! In the series there will be a mix of paved and un-paved trails, so it’s best to train on both!
- Don’t train alone! It’s always better to have a buddy motivating you!
- Do a practice race. Do a practice race before the big race, and make sure the time goals and race pace are achievable. A good pace is always the one you can maintain a conversation, but just for a few short sentences.
Who Can Participate
Participation in the Evergreen Trail Race Series is open to individuals aged 16 and above.
Only participate if you are fully prepared both mentally and physically. Additionally, ensure that you have the necessary equipment and take the steps required for the event.
Costs and Registration Information
Evergreen Trail Race Cost and Registration:
● Race 01: $55.00 – Register day of or online
● Race 02: $55 – Register day of or online
● Race 03: $65 – Register day of or online
● Race 04: $100 – Register online – spots for this race are limited!
There are also packages offered to register for all races at a discounted rate. Check out the official race page to learn more about the package and what it includes!
The Evergreen Trail Race Series Rules
General race rules and regulations include the normal rules to respect nature: don’t litter or leave the trails. These races are cup-free and have no aid stations, so make sure to bring your own reusable water bottle!
The trail race may be delayed, moved, or canceled at any time due to unforeseen trail conditions or other event. If this happens, keep in mind that there are no refunds.
Medical Amenities & Post-Recovery Tips
There will be no aid stations provided at The Evergreen Trail Race Series! You are responsible for taking proper precautions and preparations before joining this race.
After the race, make sure to take care of your body! Follow these post-recovery tips:
● Refuel immediately after the race
● Get a massage – 2-3 days AFTER the race
● Do some low-impact training, don’t do nothing!
● Prioritize your sleep
● Reintroduce running gradually, at least a week after the race
● Plan ahead to beat those post-race blues
Conclusion
Experience the exhilaration of pushing your limits and achieving new levels of performance with the Evergreen Trail Race Series. Lace up your shoes, grab your reusable water bottle, and embrace the challenge in the heart of nature. Join this incredible race series today and start your trail-running adventure.
Don’t miss out – register now and unlock your full potential for personal growth.
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