With an upcoming 50 miler and the VT 100, my first ever 100 miler, the plan was to run the entire Columbia Trail or run 20 miles at the rolling Lewis Morris. Due to timing, Columbia Trail won out. Despite the strong wind in the driveway, the trail was predominantly sheltered and I only get the wind at occasional spots. Parked at the trail head in Chester with the intent to not look at my watch and just run to High Bridge at a comfortable pace. Had a smartwool long sleeve and winter hat, shorts, gloves, and a Nathan handheld bottle with 2 Honey Stinger Gels and 1 pack of key lime performance chews.
After yesterdays rain I reveled in the blue sky and strong current through Ken Lockwood Gorge. The wind must have deterred many weekend warriors that the trail was quiet until Califon. Hunterdon County must have recently reapplied gravel for the final 7 mile stretch to High Bridge.
The way out was good and I was just rolling along and sipping water. Made a bathroom stop around mile 10 but kept watch running. The return trip was more challenging and I was looking at the mile splits regularly. Maybe it was the elevation gain 😬 but after making it to Long Valley and then Naughright the last two trail segments was just about making it to the end.