As we prepare for the New Year's trail races at Arkansas Bend Park, proper navigation becomes crucial for every runner's success and safety. In this guide, I'll walk you through everything you need to know about navigating our scenic but challenging course along Lake Travis.
Digital Navigation Meets Trail Running
This year, we're elevating your race experience with a powerful digital navigation tool that works even without cell service. Think of it as your personal GPS guide throughout the race, showing your exact location on our custom-made course maps.
Understanding Our Course
The heart of our January 1st event is a loop course hugging Lake Travis's shoreline. You will be running along sun-bleached limestone bluffs, through verdant trails, and alongside the clear waters of Lake Travis. The 50K, 25K, and Half Marathon utilize this base loop in different configurations. The 5K utilizes the northern section of the loop, while the Last Runner Standing race utilizes the southern portion of the loop.
Distance-Specific Navigation
Prior to race day, you'll receive an email containing a link to download your race-specific map. This is a digital guide showing the main aid station, start/finish points, water points and critical turns. The maps are tailored for each distance and designed to eliminate guesswork and keep you focused on your running goals. Use your digital map as a backup and verification tool to ensure you're on course.
Pre-Race Navigation Setup: Once you receive your email, follow these steps:
Download the digital maps app on your phone
Click the specific link for your race distance
The course map will automatically load into your maps app
Test the map before race day to ensure it works properly
Verify your GPS location appears correctly on the map
Beyond Digital: Physical Course Marking and Pre-Race Course Preview
While the app provides excellent digital navigation, we believe in redundancy for safety. You'll find bright ribbons marking the trail, signage at turns, and mile markers ensuring you're on track.
You can also join us the day before the race for a course preview hike. This casual walk-through covers the entire base loop. You'll practice using the digital maps app and have the opportunity to ask questions about the course.
Remember: Download and test your map before arriving at Arkansas Bend Park. The app works offline, but you need to download the map while you have internet connection. Your phone's GPS will show your location on the map throughout the race.
Safety First: Emergency Protocols
While we've designed a comprehensive navigation system, safety remains our top priority. Every runner should know basic emergency protocols, including how to use the digital maps app to locate emergency access points and when to backtrack to the last known marker if needed. The park entrance/exit is marked on your map and serves as an emergency access point. If you get off course, stop, check your position on maps app, and backtrack to the last known marker if necessary.
Essential Pre-Race Checklist
Before arriving at Arkansas Bend Park, ensure you've:
Downloaded the digital maps app
Installed your race-specific course map
Tested the app's GPS functionality
Familiarized yourself with key course features
Charged your phone fully
Reserved your spot for the course preview if interested
Trail running isn't just about covering distance - it's about experiencing nature, challenging yourself, and being part of a supportive community. Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or attempting your first trail race, proper navigation is key to a successful and enjoyable race experience. We're here to ensure you have all the tools and knowledge needed to navigate our course confidently.
Looking forward to seeing you on the trails next year!
[Interested in joining the course preview? Email us at info@atxactive.com to reserve your spot. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.]
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