Trail Weekend is a well-known race in the area. It takes place in the beautiful Pinckney Recreational Area in Pinckney, Michigan, and has a little bit of everything for all trail runners. Participants can choose from 4 different distances, each with its own set of challenges.
The Trail Weekend Course
The Trail Weekend races begin at Silver Lake in the Pinckney Recreational Area. This location is a favorite for trail runners, day hikers, and backpackers.
The half marathon followed the Potawatomi trail. There were plenty of rocks to navigate through, hills to climb, and tree roots to avoid.
There were 2 aid stations along the route. I did not stop to see what they were offering but they looked decently stocked.
The course was well-marked. The only problem that I encountered was at the very end. I wasn’t sure exactly where I was supposed to go once I came off the trail. There was also a runner who was doing the 50K who accidentally went the wrong way at the finish instead of starting his second loop.
Those running the full marathon needed to complete the half marathon loop twice and those doing the 50K had to complete the half marathon loop twice plus the five loop on Crooked Lake Trail.
Goodies
Participants received a wooden finisher medal on completing their race distance. In addition, we received a coupon for a slice of Little Caeser’s pizza (which I did not use) and a ticket into the beer tent – which opened at 9 a.m.
Optional add-ons included a long sleeve technical shirt (which I decided to get) and a race beanie.
Overall
One of my biggest issues with races like this is when they start all of the races at the same time. The half marathon, marathon, and 50K started at 8 a.m. That meant there were over 450 runners all trying to start their race at the same time on a narrow trail.
Aside from the first mile being in an over-crowded and difficult to get into a rhythm, this race was enjoyable. I really loved how it was almost 100% trail with a very short section on a dirt road.
The participants were friendly and the volunteers were wonderful. I am planning on a return visit next year to tackle one of the longer distances.
For more information, visit Trail Weekend.