I've only run a few of 5k & 10k trail runs, but since I started running half road races, I knew I wanted to try a longer trail run. When I got the chance to race a half in the Texas hill country for free (my entry was comped by Trail Toes), I jumped on it. My trail runs have been mostly flat and not very technical, so this would prove to be quite an experience.

Backcountry at Government Canyon was a great first trail half because it had a good mix of technical trail and flat dirt trail. It was hilly through the first two aid stations, then changed to flatter terrain to the end. The scenery was amazing throughout, which made the miles go by quickly. At one point I was running by myself for about two miles and I felt a little lost, but the trail was clearly marked.

The start was staggered, individual to prevent crowding on the at times narrow trail. There were four races going on at the same time: 5k, 10k, half, and 25k. The post-race food was simple, but sufficient and appreciated. The shirt was a nice technical tee, and the finisher's medal was nice too. Packet pickup was smooth, and communication from the race director was spot on.

Overall I had a great time, and I will definitely be back next year for another run, perhaps the 25k.