Part 3: Halfmoon to Twin Lakes


  • May Queen (13.5m)
  • Outward Bound (23.5m)
  •  Halfmoon II (30.5m)
  • Twin Lakes (39.5m)
  • Winfield (50m)
  • Twin Lakes (60.5m)
  • Halfmoon II (69.5m)
  • Outward Bound (76.5m)
  • May Queen (86.5m)
Notes:  Halfmoon to Twin should be uneventful, but all to often it can set up the runner for a DNF due to poor planning.  The terrain is not difficult and offers some of the prettiest single track on the course.  There are some hills but nothing that should do anyone in (especially my runners who have trained diligently).  I think the problem comes from getting in a rush at Halfmoon and inadequately taking care of the fueling, hydration and electrolytes needs for the coming 2 hours by being in that rush.  So, take your time to hydrate fully at the aid station and leave with full bottles and enough calories and salt to make the trip to Twin.  Your crew cannot get to the Halfmoon station without walking a significant distance (and they shouldn't do so anyway), so carry what you need from Outward Bound to resupply at Half Moon ... zip lock bags do the job nicely.  DO NOT assume that the race drink at any aid station has any calories ... it is usually watered down is nothing more than colored water ... so, bring your own baggie of sports powder to resupply at Half Moon.

Many years it can start to get hot on this section.  Altitude and heat are a devastating combination.  The altitude is already slowing you down; the heat can double that slowdown making for a struggle or a pace that seems way too slow.  Counteract the heat by bringing a handkerchief (I prefer a micro fiber cloth) to dip in any available stream to cool off.

The usual 2 bottles w/ Perpetuem, 4 gels and 2-4 salt stick caps will easily get you to Halfmoon.  Then, have the same amounts to resupply for the trip from Halfmoon to Twin.

The crew will have a good vantage point as you come down the tricky hill coming into the Twin Lakes Aid Station.  They should take your bottles as you arrive and then wait for you as you exit the aid station.  At Twin, you are weighed and asked a few questions by the race staff to see how coherent you are.  Your weight should ideally be down about 2%.  If it is more then review your hydration and fueling and salt.  If you are over that weight - especially if you are 5% or so over your starting weight (and it isn't clothing etc) - then think about your hydration , fueling and salt.  Chances are you have strayed from 'the program.'