This race was perhaps one of the wildest races I have ran to date (and I've raced races called "The Monster")!

This early morning run up at the Silverfalls is a great way to spend the weekend. There is an option to camp up at the Falls (and why not, it's a beautiful place) so if you are coming from far away, don't be deterred! Every year, this race encourages a costume contest that is Cowboy themed, and it's always fun to see people run really fast in extravagant costumes. So grab that cowboy hat before you head out the door!

Nature also makes this course extremely variable from year to year. There have been years where it has snowed up at the falls, and years of torrential rain have caused me to fall in the bushes and lose my shoes countless times. However, the scenery more than makes up for the muddy run. It's absolutely a beautiful run, and don't worry, the elevation change keeps you from going too fast so you can enjoy it. There are no aid stations along the way, but don't worry, there is excellent food and beer at the finish line (didn't try the beer, but it seemed to have people coming back for seconds). The elevation change consists of a never-ending hill that starts almost immediately and continues for about 4 miles. Once you summit, it's a steep drop back to the start line! This year, it might have been faster to have skies than to try and run down the muddy hill.

The race management and post-run party was absolutely wonderful. RunWildAdventures never fails to impress, and their staff is extremely friendly and helpful. The food and snacks offered were delicious, and it was nice to warm up with a hot bowl of chili after my run. The awards ceremony was well done too. Top finishers overall received amazing wooden cowboy hat shaped medals, whereas top placers in age group received boot-shaped ones. There was also several categories to win other prizes such as "muddiest runner", "best cowboy costume", "most RunWild events attended" which were all voted upon by the crowd's cheers. There was also a raffle for everything from awesome RunWild gear to Montrail shoes. It was great watching the whole running community cheering and having fun after running such a difficult race!

Overall, definitely book this on your list of "to-do" runs if you are in the area. If not, look for RunWild events because you will not be disappointed by the community it brings, the tier of the race, and if you're looking for competition it'll be there too.