Now officially known by it's longtime moniker - the Woodmonster - this race is best known for the eponymous 700' climb that comes around halfway through. But it has plenty of other noteworthy attributes!

The rest of the course is plenty tough - especially the mile you'll spend on French Trail (my favorite trail in Redwood) and the subsequent plunge down Orchard Trail. You'll also be neck-and-neck with competitors of all ages throughout the race, owing to the Dipsea-style handicapped start times. If you're a man in his 30's like me, you'll have to wait 34 minutes for your start time - plenty of time to warm up!

Woodmonster doesn't have the spectacular bay views of Tilden Tough Ten, but it has plenty of shade thanks to the redwoods, live oaks and bay laurels that fill the canyon. Those new to the area should look for redwood "cathedrals" that grow in circles around the stumps of old-growth trees.

Woodmonster also offers finisher shirts with a cool hex-style tech fabric. It's now my favorite running shirt. Pretty amazing for a race that'll only cost you $35 ($25 for LMJS members). Finish line snacks and aid stations are basic, but who needs to eat during a sub-9 mile race?

Tips:
-There is plenty of parking near the start line, but it's paid. Bring some cash to pay at the gate, or give yourself some extra time to park outside and walk in. Better yet, carpool. You can take a rideshare there, but there is no cell service at the start line so you'll need some help getting back.
-Due to the handicapping system, if you're fast or even fast-ish you'll need to do a lot of passing on narrow trails. Practice good trail etiquette - ask if you can pass and wait for a response before going. This isn't Dipsea; don't cut switchbacks or go off the course. It's not a closed course so be prepared for hikers, bikers, and even horseback riders.