Cool morning to attempt the full Trail out and back. About 40 degrees Fahrenheit at the start. Started before sun rise about 6:51 A.M. at the Garden Plain Trailhead and went east. I wore a Saloman running belt to carry a little water and 2 gels. Also, I stored my gloves, arm sleeves and headlamp in the belt as needed. My Wife and kids came to see me at the finish which was a pleasant sight since I was not sure they would be there and the hard time I was experiencing. the first half was fast, I tanked hard the second half but managed to finish around 10:24 A.M. clear skies temp in the mid 50s. this trail is nice and flat; the crushed gravel is smooth the whole way. the short stretch at the turn around on the east end is not maintained and is very sandy but it is short. I touched the sign and turned around.
There are trash cans with open holes along the trail in the park at Goddard. I took the east chance to throw away a gel pack on the way back without stopping. Traffic was low at a few runners, walkers and bikers were on the trail this morning but spread out. no problems passing. Next time I might sign up for an ultra, instead of this long solo run. Because, I can have tables of yummy food and stacks instead of whatever stale item I grabbed from home in the early hours of the morning and the hype.
Sunset Prairie Trail, 230 S 295th St W, Garden Plain, KS. USA
Have fun y'all and Praise God.