🏔️🇩🇪 Leavenworth & The Enchantments: A Trail Runner’s Slice of Heaven (and a Little Bit of Bavaria)

 

If you’ve never been to Leavenworth, Washington, let me paint the picture: Imagine a German alpine village tucked right into the Cascade Mountains — complete with Bavarian architecture, pretzel stands, and steins of local craft beer waiting for you post-adventure. 🍻🏡

Now combine that cozy mountain charm with one of the most breathtaking — and most challenging — trail experiences in the Pacific Northwest: The Enchantments. 🌲⛰️

I’ve been running ultras and long mountain routes for years, and this one was fabulous.  It’s roughly 20 miles point-to-point, but don’t let the mileage fool you — this trail packs a punch. The Asgard Pass climb alone will test every muscle and ounce of grit you’ve got. You’re not just hiking — you’re climbing boulders, scrambling up steep granite faces, and gaining over 2,000 feet of elevation in a single mile. 💪🔥

Once you crest the top though, you’re rewarded with otherworldly alpine lakes so clear they look like glass. Each one has its own color and character — Colchuck Lake, Isolation Lake, Leprechaun Lake — names that sound straight out of a fairytale, and they live up to it. 🩵💚💙

If you’re lucky (and quiet enough), you’ll spot mountain goats wandering the ridgelines like they own the place — because, honestly, they do. 🐐

The trail itself is technical — roots, rocks, steep descents, and sections that make you think twice about your footing. But that’s part of the fun. It’s wild, raw, and unforgettable — exactly what mountain running (or hiking) is meant to be.

💡 Pro tip from an old ultra guy: Start early — I mean headlamp-early. The point-to-point route from Stuart Lake Trailhead to Snow Lakes Trailhead will take most people 10 to 12 hours or sometimes more, depending on pace and stops for photos (and you’ll want to stop for a lot of them). Pack layers, plenty of calories, and bring a water filter so you don’t underestimate hydration needs — even in cooler temps.

Afterward, roll into Leavenworth and reward yourself the right way — with a big meal and maybe a local Hefeweizen or Märzen 🍺 under the Bavarian lights. If you time it during Oktoberfest, even better. You’ll blend right in with the mix of hikers, runners, and travelers all sharing stories of the mountains they just conquered. 🎉

If you’re an endurance junkie, a mountain lover, or just someone who wants to experience one of the most scenic alpine adventures in the U.S., put The Enchantments at the top of your bucket list. It’s not just a hike — it’s a pilgrimage for the trail soul.

👣🏔️
See you out there — one step, one climb, and one sunrise at a time.

 🌄🐐🥾

🏃‍♂️ Grasslands Trail Marathon Recap 🌾

 

Embarking on the Grasslands Trail Marathon at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands was an adventure filled with challenges and unexpected turns amidst the breathtaking beauty of North Texas. Let's journey through the course, my race, and reflections on the experience. #GrasslandsMarathon #TrailRunning

The race unfolds on equestrian trails, weaving through the stunning landscapes of prairie lands, rolling hills, and pine-oak forests. With two loops—the white (11.5 miles) and blue (15 miles)—runners traverse a total of 26.5 miles, facing an overall gain of 1675 feet. The terrain, though mainly rolling, presents its own set of challenges with uneven trails marked by hoof prints and sandy patches. The race course's charm lies in its simplicity and the occasional encounter with local wildlife, adding a touch of excitement to the journey. 🐴🌳 #TrailRunnerLife #NatureLover

As I approached race day, I sensed that I wasn't quite at my peak. Tapering runs felt tougher than expected, and on the morning of the race, my energy levels were less than optimal. Nonetheless, I decided to embrace the challenge, trusting my instincts and running by feel. #TrustTheProcess #UltraMindset

The first loop, the white 11.5-mile stretch, went by swiftly. Despite not feeling my best, I pushed forward, completing it in just over 2 hours. However, as I embarked on the blue 15-mile loop, my energy dwindled, and occasional power hikes became necessary. It was clear that my goal of finishing in 4 hours and 30 minutes was slipping away. #PushThrough #NeverGiveUp

Then, just as I thought the challenges wouldn't get any tougher, nature threw in its own twist. Around mile 21, a thunderstorm rolled in, transforming the trails into a muddy, slippery mess. With each step becoming more arduous than the last, I was determined to keep moving forward. #Nature'sChallenge #EmbraceTheStruggle

Crossing the finish line, I was proud of my perseverance, despite not achieving my desired time. The experience served as a reminder that on race day, anything can happen, and sometimes, just finishing becomes the ultimate victory. #FinishStrong #UltraRunnerPride

Reflecting on my race and current training, I'm grateful for the progress I've made, even if this race didn't go as planned. Every setback is an opportunity for growth, and I'm determined to channel this experience into fuel for my future endeavors. #TrainingJourney #NeverStopImproving

Looking ahead, my focus shifts to The Coyote Trail Race 50k in April. With renewed determination, I set my sights on finishing under my goal time and breaking into the top 15 overall. The journey continues, and I'm ready to tackle whatever challenges come my way. 🐺💪 #NextChallenge #TrailRunnerGoals

Race Results Here

Grasslands Trail Marathon Strava Activity

My Ultra Signup Event Schedule

🏃‍♂️ Bridgeport 36K Trail Race Recap 🌲

 

The Bridgeport 36K in Bridgeport, TX, is a rugged test of endurance set amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature. Spanning 22.4 miles, this trail run consists of two challenging loops, each approximately 11.2 miles in length. Let me take you through the journey I embarked on during this exhilarating race. #Bridgeport36K #TrailRunning

The race begins atop a bluff, where the adrenaline is pumping and anticipation fills the air. The initial quarter-mile offers a deceptive calm, leading into a sharp descent to the bottom of the bluff. As the terrain drops away beneath you, the real adventure begins.

For the next 7 miles, the trails flow smoothly, inviting you to find your rhythm and embrace the joy of running. Aid stations greet you twice along the way, offering a brief respite before the true challenge unfolds.

Around mile 7.25, the landscape begins to change, signaling the start of three climbs over the next 4 miles. The terrain becomes rockier and more technical, testing your agility and determination. But every climb is a victory, bringing you one step closer to the ultimate reward.

Approaching the start-finish line, the last climb presents itself—a daunting ascent up rocks and boulders to the top of the bluff. With sheer determination, you conquer this final obstacle and cross the timing mat to begin your second loop.

Loop 2 takes you on a different journey, leading you in the opposite direction of the first loop. The descent back down to the bottom of the bluff is exhilarating yet challenging, preparing you for the final stretch ahead. As you reunite with the original trail, you're greeted once again by 7 miles of flowing terrain and 4 miles of rocky technical climbs to the finish.

As for my race, I approached it with determination and a steady pace. Running all but the last climb of the first loop, I completed Loop 1 in 1 hour and 59 minutes. Loop 2 brought its own challenges, running the first 7 miles and navigating the 4 miles of technical terrain with confidence, utilizing a run-hike strategy as needed.

Crossing the finish line in 4 hours and 30 minutes was a moment of triumph, securing 8th place overall and claiming the top spot in the 50+ age group. Every step of the journey was a testament to the hours of training. #Endurance #TrailRunner

Reflecting on my current training, I'm filled with gratitude for the progress I've made. With each run, I feel myself growing stronger and more resilient. The journey is far from over, and I look forward to the challenges and victories that lie ahead. My next training race, the Grasslands Trail Marathon in March, awaits with open arms. 🌾 #TrainingJourney #UltraRunnerLife

Click Here to see Bridgeport 36K Strava Activity

Click Here to see Bridgeport 36K Race Results

My Ultra Signup Event Schedule

🏃‍♂️ Hey there, fellow trailblazers! 🌟 Ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of a ultra-running training plan?

 

Let's lace up those shoes and embark on this exhilarating journey together! 🚀

With a major race on the horizon in September, my training regimen is all about strategic phases to ensure I'm firing on all cylinders come race day. 🗓️ Here's the lowdown on how I'm tackling the trails: We will know in September if it works

Phase 1: Winter/Spring Wonderland ❄️🌸

In these cooler months, I'm all about laying down a solid foundation of conditioning and improving my pace. That means cranking up the intensity with some heart-pumping Vo2 max and tempo runs. 💨 Think of it as priming the engine for the epic adventures ahead!

Phase 2: Sizzling Summer Strength 💪☀️

As the temperatures rise, so does my focus on building endurance and fortifying my muscles. Cue the weekend-long back-to-back runs! 🏞️ These babies are designed to push my limits while sculpting those trail-ready legs. And let's not forget the midweek strength sessions to keep everything in top-notch form!

Phase 3: The Final Countdown 🚀🏁

With the big race looming on the horizon, about 6 to 8 weeks before race day in September, it's time to fine-tune every aspect of my performance. 🎯 That means hitting the technical trails, mastering those uphill climbs, and dialing in my calorie intake for optimal fueling. Oh, and let's not forget about those exhilarating nighttime runs to get comfortable with the darkness! 🌌

But wait, there's more! My weekly grind follows a rhythm of gradual build-up and strategic recovery. 🔄 I ramp up the mileage over 2 to 3 weeks before giving my body some well-deserved rest with a mileage reduction on the 3rd or 4th week. It's all about finding that sweet spot between pushing boundaries and honoring the body's need to recharge. ⚡

And speaking of weekly routines, here's a sneak peek into my schedule during phase 1:

🏋️ Monday: Power hour with strength training focusing on the chest, biceps, and core. 🏃 Tuesday: Let's hit the road for some heart-thumping Vo2 intervals or tempo runs! 🏋️ Wednesday: Back at it with strength training, this time targeting back, triceps, and those powerhouse legs. 🏃 Thursday: Base miles day – time to log those essential foundational miles. 🏃 Friday: Threshold run or a pace-pushing session to keep that speedometer ticking. 🏃 Saturday: Ah, the joy of choice! A short progression run or just going with the flow – whatever feels right! 🏃 Sunday: Long run day – the pièce de résistance of the week, where miles turn into memories and challenges into triumphs!

With each step pounding the earth beneath me, I'm one stride closer to crushing my goals and embracing the thrill of ultra-running. 💥 So here's to chasing sunrises, conquering mountains, and embracing the wild, untamed spirit within us all! 🌄 #UltraRunnerLife #TrailBlazers #EmbraceTheChallenge #RunningWild 🏞️👟

Hey, trailblazers! 🏃‍♂️✨ It's time to lace up those shoes and dive into the adventure of life! 🌟

 

Over the past couple of years, I've been on a wild journey – running very slow longer distances, just going through the motions. 🐢 I'll admit it, I've had my fair share of DNFs (Did Not Finish) and moments of doubt along the way.

But guess what? 🎉 I've hit the refresh button, and now I'm diving headfirst into true training mode! 💪 Say hello to Vo2 workouts, threshold workouts, tempo runs, and yes those glorious long runs that can push you beyond your limits. 🚀 It's a whole new ball game, and I'm feeling more inspired than ever before.

There's something magical about chasing improvement, about pushing yourself beyond what you thought was possible. And let me tell you, the results are starting to show themselves. 📈 I'm seeing significant improvements in my performance, both on and off the trails.

So here's to embracing the journey, embracing the grind, and embracing every single sweaty step along the way. 🙌 Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, remember your why and run with heart and passion. ❤️ Let's crush those goals together! 💥 #TrailBlazers #UltraRunningAdventures #EmbraceTheGrind #PushYourLimits #FindYourPassion 🌟

"Embracing the Ultra Life! 🏃‍♂️🌲

 

" There's something magical about pushing the boundaries of physical endurance, and for me, Ultra Marathons are the ultimate playground for that. 💪 Here's why I lace up those trail shoes and hit the rugged terrains:

1. Challenge Accepted: I thrive on challenging myself physically, and there's no greater test than an Ultra Marathon. The sheer distance, the unpredictable terrains – it's a relentless challenge that keeps me coming back for more. 🏞️

2. Nature's Playground: One of the best perks of Ultra Running? The chance to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse myself in the raw beauty of nature. 🌿 From dense forests to rocky mountain trails, every run is a journey through the untamed wilderness. It's not just a race; it's an adventure. 🗺️

3. Wanderlust Runs Deep: Ultra Marathons take me to places I've never imagined. The thrill of discovering new and wild landscapes fuels my passion for exploration. It's not just about the miles; it's about the incredible places these miles take me. 🏞️

4. The Sweet Taste of Victory: Crossing that finish line after an exhausting Ultra is a feeling like no other. The sense of accomplishment, the triumph over physical limits – it's addictive. 🏁 There's nothing quite like the elation of achieving a challenging goal. 🏆

5. Compete to Elevate: I run not just against others, but against myself. Every Ultra Marathon is a chance to outdo my yesterday. The competition isn't just on the trail; it's with the person I was before. 🚀

So here's to the relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries, to the joy of running wild, and to the sweet taste of victory at the end of the trail. 🙌 Join me in the journey, and let's chase those horizons together! 🌲🏃‍♂️✨