PAUL SMITHS — The Paul Smith’s College virtual Jenkins Mountain Scramble kicked off at the VIC, with the event featuring a 10-kilometer trail run and half marathon.

In a similar fashion to the virtual trail run series at the VIC, the courses will be laid out for participants to complete at their will. The marked course will be signed, flagged and marked with cones from Aug. 7-16, allowing for runners to take a stab at completing either 10k, half marathon, or both. 

Both courses will be starting in the VIC back yard, where there will be a course map posted. This event is free to the public, though anyone participating is required to sign a waiver. Waivers can be found at our front desk or by registering for the Jenkins Mountain Scramble on Ultrasignup.com.  

The two courses will take you around the Heron Marsh on soft pine and wood chip based trails, leading you over the top of Shingle Mills Falls, and out old forest roads passing by our sugar bush. Continuing on, both courses lead you out to the shores of Black and Long Ponds. At this point in the course, the Half Marathon follows a single-track trail up to the Summit of Jenkins Mountain (elev. 2,513 ft) while the 10k returns to the finish. Upon reaching the summit, half marathon racers turn back and return to the finish via a rolling route.

This virtual event will be self-supported without water, food or aid stations. Water is available at multiple locations on the exterior of the VIC building only. Runners should be prepared with water, sustenance, extra layers, and any first aid supplies that may be needed. We highly recommend carrying moleskin, bandages or tape. Runners are encouraged to bring cell phones. Note that the VIC property has cell reception for the Verizon service providers only. As always, recreate responsibly and tell someone you know where you are going and when you expect to return.

Upon completion, runners are asked to send in their times as well as any photos they wish to share. Any further questions can be directed to Tyler Dezago at tdezago@paulsmiths.edu. 

Lastly, of course, have fun! Our mission is “To connect outdoor recreation, experiential education, and the arts, naturally. Don’t forget to take in the scenery and come back to visit again!  

Additionally, the Paul Smith’s College Fall Trail Run Series will commence on Sept. 16. These will be consistent with our Summer Series. Race course will be set up to run on from Wednesday to Sunday each week. There will be five weeks of trail runs, which will wrap up on Oct. 19.