The first race of the 2024 Alpine Shop Trail Run Series will start this Thursday evening- August 1st, 2024- at 6:15pm at Queeny Park’s Smith shelter in central Saint Louis County at 550 Weidman Rd.
Race HQ will be at the same location as last year, nearest to the Weidman entrance (the west side of the park). Enter the park and head up the hill. Take the first left after entering the park and follow the road until it ends at the large parking lot. Race HQ will be almost in the exact opposite side of the parking lot, in the Northeast corner.
Race start will be in the Northwest corner of the parking lot, not more than a tenth of a mile from Race HQ. The first course will be a slightly shorter loop than usual given the anticipated heat. This course will also feature some some of the parks most quad quivering descents with an uphill battle for the finish!
From Hawk Ridge we’ll head North past the Fox Run Trail for our first dip and climb before we turn left onto some single track. The trail turns right before we make a left as we rejoin the Hawk Ridge Trail and cut into the field. Here’s another descent as you head down and make a sharp left into the woods to make a loop around both ponds. Watch your footing as this area is full of roots!
Once you make your way around the second pond, you’ll rejoin the gravel and head south on the Dogwood Trail before making a right for a punchy climb up the White Oak Trail. Just as you see the top of the hill you’ll make a hard left and begin your long descent down the Owl Creek Trail until it meets with Fox Run where you’ll head East up the winding switchbacks towards Mason Rd. You’ll turn right to head towards the old Dog Museum where you’ll have your last tough descent.
From here you’re passing the large corporate shelter and it’s time to turn it on! You’ll turn right and head North up Owl Creek where you’ll turn left on the bridge and climb back towards Race HQ. By the time you’re at the pond you’ll begin your uphill finish.
*If you’re worried about the heat, we would also recommend you consider bringing a hydration pack or handheld bottle to run with. We will announce an on course aid station at the start of the race*
Enjoy some beer, snacks, and hotdogs courtesy of 4Hands Brewing Co. and Great Harvest Kirkwood will be there with free samples. Optimal Performance Centers is always there to get you right after the race, too! Make sure to stick around for the Alpine Shop giveaways!
Want to Register today? Here you go!