FKT: Jake Hegge, Gretchen Metsa - Porcupine Mountains Loop (MI) - 2021-09-30

Route variation
Standard route
Multi-sport
No
Gender category
Mixed-gender team
Style
Unsupported
Start date
Finish date
Total time
4h 41m 37s
Report

Started before the sun and caught the most amazing views running the ridge past Lake of the Clouds. Irritated some photographers because our headlights interfered with their lighting of the rising sun. 

Gretchen took 4 nasty falls.  I'm surprised she was able to get up after each one. 

A couple muddy spots, countless down trees, leaves were just about perfect color.  Climbed the tower because the view is worth it. 

Trail was pretty easy to follow.  This place is the perfect training grounds for the Superior Trail races.    

Got a bit humid,  sweaty, and low on water. We were able to refill at Mirror Lake and a couple creeks near the end.  We thought we were moving pretty good on time but didn't realize how much climbing was in the last bonus loop.  A necessary bathroom break near the peak and we hammered the downhill. Gretchen is one of the best downhill technical runners around.  Came up a bit short of the overall record...we will be back!

-Jake and Gretchen