TRAILS BY MOONLIGHT: SNOW MOON STAMPEDE

Ready to embrace the magic of night trail running? Here's your concise training plan for the Snow Moon Stampede Edition on February 14, 2025.

Choose your challenge:

• 8-hour endurance (10:30pm-6:30am)

• Last Person Standing format (7pm-7am)

WEEKLY PROGRESSION

Week 1: Foundation (20-25 miles)

Build your night vision confidence with runs that start at or after 10pm.

• Two night runs: 30-45 minutes each (starting at 10pm)

• Weekend long run: 2 hours

• Focus: Training your body for late-night starts

Photo by Aron Visuals on Unsplash

Week 2: Building Blocks (25-30 miles)

Time to extend those night hours, simulating the challenge of running past midnight.

• Night runs increase to 60-90 minutes (10pm starts)

• Weekend long run: 3 hours

• Focus: Managing energy through the midnight hours

Week 3: Gaining Momentum (30-35 miles)

Now we're adding intensity and practicing race-specific elements.

• Night runs: 75-120 minutes (10pm starts)

• Weekend long run: 3.5 hours

• Focus: Refining your midnight-to-dawn strategy

Week 4: Peak Training (35-40 miles)

Your highest volume week, simulating race conditions.

• Night runs up to 2.5 hours (10pm starts)

• One run extending past 2am

• Weekend long run: 4 hours

• Focus: Full race simulation including pre-race rest

Week 5: Pre-Taper (25-30 miles)

Maintaining fitness while starting to freshen up.

• Night runs: 1-2 hours (10pm starts)

• Weekend long run: 2.5 hours

• Focus: Perfecting your pre-race sleep strategy

Week 6: Taper to Race Day (15-20 miles)

Sharp and ready for race night.

• Short quality sessions

• Adjust sleep schedule for 10pm start

• Focus: Mental preparation and rest

NIGHT RUNNING ESSENTIALS

Pre-Race Rest:

• Plan your February 14th daytime sleep

• Practice sleeping during the day

• Develop a pre-race evening routine

Loop Strategy:

• Find your sustainable night pace

• Identify technical sections

• Plan aid station routines

• Perfect your lighting strategy

Recovery Focus:

• Adjust daily schedule for night training

• Practice post-night-run sleep

• maintain good nutrition

• Listen to your body

FINAL TIPS

• Train with your race gear

• Practice in various weather conditions

• Run with others when possible

• Know the course markings

Questions about your training? Drop them in the comments below!

See you under the Snow Moon!

DISCLAIMER

Please consult your physician before beginning any training program or participating in this event. The activities involved can be strenuous and may pose risks including injury or death. By participating, you acknowledge that you:

-Have consulted with a qualified medical professional about your participation

-Are in good health and physically capable of participating

-Understand the risks associated with trail running, especially at night

-Accept responsibility for your own health and safety during training and the event

This event involves: Extended physical exertion, night running on trails, exposure to varying weather conditions, extended time on feet (8-12 hours). Participants with any medical conditions, injuries, or concerns should receive medical clearance before registering. The event organizers reserve the right to deny participation based on medical or safety concerns.