This was part of the unofficial Emisprint event, with around 20 taking part in the festivities or running up Emigrant. It was so windy at the trailhead that we tried to arrange cars to create a windbreak. Bits of grass were airborne, and you could lean to the west and be supported in the arms of the wind. On the trail, trees and ridges offered some protection.
Emigrant is a trail with clear thirds. The first third contains the only gradual trail along Gold Prize Creek and a long rutted climb (1.8 mi, 1500'). The second third is a steep sagebrush meadow and then a braided trail through the trees (1.2 mi, 1800'). The third third is above treeline, rocky, and extremely steep (0.7 mi, 1500').
Had a fun cheering squad near the end of the first third. They wisely encouraged me to stay focused on the third third. The sagebrush meadow at the start of the second third was quite cold, with whipping wind and light rain. Having a jacket was necessary.
The wind direction was largely from the southwest. On the long above-treeline ridge, there was good protection. I vibed with the chaotic wind. The summit was in the clouds, a bit misty. I got to the summit in 1:13:25 and set out to run the downhill as quickly as I could.
The highlight was seeing the other Emisprinters as we passed. I flew down the loose upper section, which loses 2300' in the first mile. I was a bit slower in the trees as I put away my jacket, gloves, and headband while dodging roots and hopping logs. Then I survived the sagebrush meadow and rutted trail, turning on the speed for the section along Gold Prize Creek.
I could cut a bit more time out of the ascent of the third third and the descent of the second third. Really happy with the day, the friends out there, and this run.