Grouse Mountain to Lynn Canyon Return, 20 Km 

More than 50 people came out for the Mother’s Day version of Knee Knacker training on Sunday. This was also the weekend after the Vancouver Marathon. Some of the marathoners were ready to go at a good pace but I know of some others who were yet waiting another week before tackling the BP Trail. Thanks again to committee member’s Glenn and Rod for being on hand as well as Monty B. for his trail insights before we started.

I’m very glad that mostly everyone is coming well prepared with water, food and good clothing and I hope there are no exceptions on future runs. I brought all kinds of extra gear but thankfully I was able to leave it in the car since the weather improved before we started.  I encouraged all runners to remember to fill water bottles at Mtn Hwy and at the Rice Lake gazebo or the Lynn Canyon station on the other side of the Suspension Bridge.

The previous night had been windy and rainy but by the time our run started the rain had stopped and the trail was actually quite dry. This route is estimated to be at least 20 km (3-4 hours) depending on the various turnaround points. It seems most people took advantage of the water and outhouses at the Rice Lake parking area and headed back from there. However there were some like Ellie’s group that went the full official distance on to the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge before their about face. I did so as well and then caught up with Victoria’s group and eventually with Arthur and some others on the way back. Thanks very much to Victoria for keeping a watchful eye on the back of the pack. This let me loose on my legs a little more than last week and I took full advantage of my four hour trip.

A reminder please that we have our Trail Work Party on Saturday May 31 and we need lots more people to help fix our battered trail. You can volunteer at the link above.  Our group has spent one day a year for many years fixing up the trail and there’s always more to do.

For next week we have another 3-4 hour run. It takes us from the same meeting place at the base of Grouse Mountain and goes up to the top of Grouse by way of Old Grouse Mountain Highway. The most important thing I can do to help you get prepared for this one is to get you to bring extra clothing. Unless it is exceptionally warm, dry and calm, you will get very chilly before reaching the top without more layers. We head out on the BP Trail to Mountain Highway and then follow the entire length of the old gravel road that goes all the way to the top. At this time of year it is always cold and unpredictable for weather. The order of the day is hats, gloves, jackets, long sleeves and maybe even tights. It will be your choice to take the Skyride down (bring money) or to run down the BCMC Trail. And I know that there are always a few people that simply turn around and go back the same way for a few extra K’s. Whichever way you go be ready for a tough run and some character building. In a way it’s like the start to the Knee Knacker race going up Black Mountain, except … easier ;)

Thanks again for watching out for one another and for having lots of fun!

Craig Moore

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