Pretty good conditions overall. Pretty sloppy in the muddy areas, but the trail is well trampled down after the 2025 fire and subsequent one year closure. Beautiful running weather - high of 7 C, low of 0, and mostly clear skies.
Like any day on Mantario, it wasn't without it's challenges. I took a really terrible fall while crossing the creek just north of Moosehead campsite that took me awhile to walk off. Just after the turnaround at the north trailhead I experienced a substantial bonk, and overcompensated by eating way too much and getting indigestion. I couldn't handle solid food all the way back down and had to ration my gels and tailwind to make them last.
Saw a few groups out camping and hiking but it was a pretty solitary day for the most part.
So grateful to be able to do these big days and appreciate this magnificent playground we have in our backyard.