Last Big Run - Solo Trip on the PCT

So as with all things, a training cycle must eventually wind down, and come to an end.  After all, that is the point of training, right?  A build up with a goal?  Well, as that goal approaches, there is always that "culminating point."  That was this run.  

I wanted to have my last big run of the cycle to be in an epic, new location.  Great thing about SoCal, is you are never too far from the Pacific Crest Trail; and as such, my destination was chosen.  Here it is in pictures, with a little bit of writing thrown in - Cougar Crest Trail to Little Bear Springs via the PCT.

Cougar Crest Trail out of Fawnskin, CA.  It climbs from just under 7k to just over 7.5 k in  little over 2 miles.  I wish this pic could really showcase the technicality of much of the trail, but it doesn't do it justice.  Most of the trail is highly technical.

View South from Cougar Crest.

Lookin' south towards the Big Bear ski slopes.

Nice open view of the lake and the snow caps in the back.

Once on the PCT, it opened up into some smooth, soft, single-track.

There was some snow left on the north side of the ridge, despite it being almost 60 degrees.  Good thing, because when I ran out of water, the snow came in handy!

Very smooth track running just below the ridge line.  Nice alpine running.

It just keeps on rolling....

Eventually, due to a past fire, the view opens up and you can see the 10k footers to the west.

Despite the damage a fire does, there is still something serene about it...like a new beginning.

It did get rocky in some portions on the PCT.

The burned trees stood there watching...lifeless.  

Little Bear Springs Trail Camp.  Too bad there was no potable water...I could have used it!

 All in all, it was the perfect place to do a long run.  I don't know why I hadn't been out there yet, but I'm glad I went.  The couple of places I've run on the PCT have been amazing, and I plan on exploring much more of it in the coming months.  I know there are even better places to go, and plenty of miles to keep me occupied!

This was a solo adventure, and I'm glad it was.  Sometimes that's just what you need.  It's good to just turn off the Ipod sometimes, sit on a rock, and just enjoy nature around you.  It's hard to imagine for those who have never done it, but such a tiring exercise can be so refreshing.

In the meantime....Keep Running!