It’s “Hurry Up & Wait Season” aka Mud Season…so we came up with a few tips and tricks to survive the “layover” if you will...
When the alpine is still snowed in, and the lower trails are a muddy mess, staying stoked (and upright) takes strategy. Here’s how to get through the shoulder season:
TRAIL SELECTION
🧦South-Facing Slopes melt faster and dry out quicker.
🧦Gravel Paths & Forest Roads offer solid footing without the sludge.
🧦Avoid Sensitive Areas—muddy trails = trail damage. If you’re leaving deep footprints, it’s too soon!
GEAR
🧦Good Trail Shoes—aggressive lugs help on slick terrain.
🧦Proper Socks—keep your feet drier when the puddles win ex. Magic Socks*
🧦Embrace the Mess—you’re gonna get muddy.
ADAPT YOUR TRAINING
🧦Strength & Mobility—focus on single-leg work and core stability to handle unstable footing.
🧦Shorter & Steeper—hill sprints and stair repeats keep the legs mountain-ready.
🧦Cross-Train—hit the bike, ski the lingering snow, or get into some muddy adventure runs.
BE PATIENT & HAVE FUN
🧦Run early—trails are firmer before the sun softens them up.
🧦Make it playful—run through the mud, splash in the puddles, and embrace the chaos.
🧦Keep the stoke alive—big mountain days are just around the corner!