Introduction to Trail Running: Backcountry

Introduction to Trail Running: Backcountry is designed to introduce participants to trail running in more remote wilderness locations. The curriculum focuses on how to travel as a runner in the backcountry safely, and the knowledge and resources you'll need. This course is ideal for outdoor recreation enthusiasts with an interest in trail running and runners who wish to take their trail running to the next level.

All participants will get a Mountaineers trail running t-shirt included with their registration!

It's recommended that you are in shape to comfortably hike/jog 6 miles on hilly trails in order to have a successful experience during the field trip. Having previous experience hiking and/or running 10 miles in a single outing is also helpful.

Note: depending on the route and the participants, leaders may divide trail run field trip participants into pace groups to ensure everyone has a successful experience.

This course's badge is required for participation in backcountry trail running trips that the Foothills Trail Running Committee offers.

The course consists of the following components; all are required:

• A classroom session (*may be held virtually via Zoom web conferencing)
• 2 field trips. We are offering 3 options- students should pick 2 of the 3.   These field trips are to a backcountry location, e.g., a trail in the I-90 corridor or the Pacific Crest Trail, to reinforce what you have learned and evaluate your learning.
• 1 backcountry trail run with the Mountaineers (a club run separate from the field trips)
• Earn a stewardship badge for taking part in a trail maintenance (or similar) activity
  
• Wilderness First Aid or equivalent
• Navigation badge or equivalent
• Low Impact Recreation skill badge