FKT: Sara Aranda - Black Forest Regional Park Loop (CO) - 2025-02-25

Athletes
Route variation
Standard route
Multi-sport
No
Para athlete
No
Gender category
Female
Style
Supported
Start date
Finish date
Total time
58m 54s
Photos
Report

I started from the designated trailhead at 7:13 am and completed the route clockwise since that is the direction the downloadable gpx is in. I had downloaded the provided FKT gpx file to use on my watch on prior scouting runs/attempts to ensure I didn't miss any turns and to also make sure I followed the route as the description dictates. Thus, this was my third time running the route and the conditions were by far the best this go. Given the time of year, there is a lot of ice along the northern perimeter, which I was able to manage my pace decently through, but I don't doubt that I still lost some time there. Muddy areas were thankfully still frozen or at least firm (my last attempt was very snowy and slippery, to provide context). I carried 500ml of water in a HydraPak SkyFlask IT Speed bottle and consumed one Spring Energy Hill Aid gel. Really happy I was able to achieve a time under an hour. This loop is both challenging and fun as the terrain flows up and down and constantly changes. There aren't too many truly flat sections, which I actually appreciate. The area is also very beautiful. Some exposed areas, some forested areas, some neighborhood areas and there are some amazing views of Pikes Peak. I did have two people show up along the route to capture footage of me running for a film we're making, which according to FKT guidelines, technically makes the effort supported.