W.T.F: Running Winter Trail Fest – East Side

Take a run through Island Lake Recreation Area at Trivium’s Winter Trail Fest – East Side. Enjoy a scenic 5 mile or 13.1 mile trail run through one of Michigan’s recreation areas.

After participating in the 2020 Winter Trail Fest (WTF) in Yankee Springs, I was excited to hit the trails again with this brand new version of the race. It offers the same options as the west side, minus the creek crossing. I signed up for the half marathon (13.1 miles).

The WTF will typically occur in February where the trails have snow and ice. This year it was postponed and held in December with more mud than snow.

The Course

The race started and ended at Kent Lake Beach. Both the 5 mile and half marathon started at the same time and followed the same trail for about 3.9 miles. For the 2022 race, the half marathon will start 30 minutes before the 5 miles, elevating some of the congestion problems that occurred on this course.

The first 3.9 miles were challenging. It was mostly single track and slower runners created major congestion points. Runners were not stepping aside to allow faster runners to pass.

After the 3.9 mile split, the race was much better. Runners were more aware of those around them and stepped aside when needed. If running the half, I’d recommend planning for this to happen.

The course was mostly forest and field with some roots and rocks. There was about a mile of paved, flat bike path toward the end of the race. I recorded around 450 feet of elevation climb, making this a pretty flat race overall.

The course was well marked. It was flagged frequently, had signs at every turn, and cones in some other areas.

A portion of the trail was open to bikes. The race directors warned them that we were running but I still encountered a few and they did not yield.

Goodies & Costs

Participants who paid full price received a WTF hooded sweatshirt and a beautiful WTF medal. For those who participated in the Summer Trail Fest Ultra, the medals from both races connect. Cost for the 5 miles starts at $40 and $59 for the half.

An economic option was also offered for those wanting to opt out of the sweatshirt and medal. The 5 mile started at $35 and the half at $50.

Top 3 finishers in each age group received the coveted WTF winter hat. These hats are warm and comfortable. I won one last year and was excited to win another one.

Overall

Despite some issues with trail etiquette, this is a fun and easy trail race with varying terrain to keep things interesting.

The race was well organized and volunteers were friendly. They provided encouragement at every aid station and road crossing, an assortment of goodies for refueling post-race, and some great race photographs.

The Winter Trail Fest is a great way to get out and embrace the beauty of winter. For more information on 2023, visit Winter Trail Fest East Side.