5 days and Counting to 2010 Vapor Trail 125

Epic, fall high country riding is exactly what the Vapor Trail 125 offers. Amazing views, flowy singletrack and 20k feet of climbing... What could be better? Starting at 10pm on a Saturday night!!

It’s that time of the year again. Nights are getting colder, leaves are starting to change, and the 2010 Vapor Trail 125 is only 4 days away. For those who have never heard of the race, it is another endurance event in the high country of Colorado, just like the Leadville 100... It begins in the sleepy town of Salida at 10pm on Saturday night. It then climbs up and over the continental divide numerous times over the course of the route eventually making its way around and back down to Salida.

But what makes the race so cool is the fact that it includes the world-renowned Monarch Crest trail. Granted it is about 60 miles in to the race and most riders are worked by the time they get there, it is still awesome to be shredding that trail after being awake all night riding above 10k feet.  Along with the Monarch Crest, the race also includes many other epic pieces of high altitude singletrack making for a truly memorable adventure.

What makes the race difficult though is the night portion. Getting a light setup that is bright and lightweight, but also has a long burn time. Carrying extra batteries just adds extra weight to a setup that needs to be as light as possible. Another factor in the race is clothing choice. After last year’s monumental rainstorm, postponing the start, racers have learned that any weather is possible in the mountains. But above 10k feet at dawn is not a place you want to learn the hard way. Temps creep well below freezing for miles on end and any precipitation can make those temperatures extremely scary.

Preparation for the race has begun for me. I am excited because I know how fun and life changing the race can be. Giving riders a new perspective on life, showing them how powerful nature really is but also how strong a person can be. Pushing through a race like the VT is no easy feat, but what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger, right?

After a hard crash on the last stage of the Breck Epic, I am suffering from a bruised rib. So riding has this week has been toned down a fair amount. Hopefully it will be the right formula for race day. Keep checking back for gear updates regarding lights, clothing, and bike setup. If there are any questions about the event or preparation please post them up.

Check out the race here VaporTrail125.com