FKT: Brian Kimmey - Whitestone Cliffs Trail (CT) - 2021-01-13

Athletes
Route variation
Standard route
Multi-sport
No
Gender category
Male
Style
Unsupported
Start date
Finish date
Total time
19m 43s
GPS track(s)
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Another short neighborhood trail system FKT. I hiked the route once before during the summer so I was somewhat familiar with the terrain. However, what I was not prepared for were the several ice rivers on top of the trail or downed trees. Since this is a relatively unknown loop, I don't think much maintenance has occurred after any of our storms this year. Given the conditions, I did not push the pace as hard as I was planning on, but still finished with the FKT. 

After running up the initial incline, I came to the first ice river and ran alongside it on the right edge of the trail. The trail crosses a river and for some reason I did not see the man-made bridge ten feet to my left, but proceeded to rock hop across the river and climb a downed tree instead. I Followed the loop clockwise. After a quick summit to the cliff overlook, the trail became very runnable except for a couple more ice spots and downed trees. Then the route doubles back on itself for another short climb and descent over technical singletrack with several trees uprooted making it even more technical. Returning back to the river I see the bridge in front of me and wonder how I managed to miss it heading out.

Overall, a decent small trail, but I'd like to run it fast when the conditions are more amiable.