FKT: Kate Woodard - White Pass to Pilot Ridge Loop (WA) - 2023-08-01

Athletes
Route variation
Standard route
Multi-sport
No
Gender category
Female
Style
Unsupported
Start date
Finish date
Total time
8h 49m 41s
Report

The day started with a cool jog through the woods and up to White Pass, with its expansive views and ample opportunities to filter water. The route is lovely and runnable for the first 15 miles, which makes it easy to underestimate the back half based on the elevation profile. From Sauk Pass to Blue Lake was slower going, due to footing and some navigation errors. Another full water refill/filter was necessary and Blue Lake and sufficient to get to the finish. After this point, the trail navigates Pilot Ridge through a series of runnable downs and punchy little ups, before a final 2-3 mile 20% average grade downhill amongst the rocks and roots. After a river crossing at the bottom (and a good hip flexor cramp getting up the other side) it's an easy run back to the start. Good day on the trails!