Event Recap:
This was a second attempt at the UTBM and brought closure initial efforts.
Active wildfire on the west side of the Sierras degraded AQI and threatened potential to start.
The two-person team had a pre-dawn start and beautiful day with clearing smoke.
Overnight conditions dropped to freezing and strong overnight winds brought very poor AQI and a beautifully apocalyptic sunrise at Thousand Island Lake after Donahue Pass.
The team was supported with a food resupply at the 50 and approx. 90 mile marks.
Logistics:
Natural water is available at least every 10 miles.
The logical resupply is the halfway point at Tenya Lake
Route Notes:
- Expect talus scrambling and boulder hopping near Iceburg and Cecile Lakes
- The route utilizes a climber trail getting into the Cathedral Basin. Careful route finding was required after dark.
- The bridge is out over the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin
History:
The UTBM route was conceived in 2021 by the eventual first completionists. It was created, mostly sight unseen, as a backup to another Sierra 100mile adventure. Wildfires necessitated the need for the new route several days before the intended start.
The first attempt also started with less than ideal conditions due to variable AQI and temperatures. The result was a DNF at Mile 50. In addition to challenging condies, participants needed more wisdom and preparation for an undertaking of this nature.