Running the Hardrock 100 mile course: "SoftRock" Day 2 – Ouray to Telluride - Vo2maxProductions

Intro: This is a quick summary of Running the Hardrock 100 mile course: “SoftRock” Day 2 – Ouray to Telluride from Vo2maxProductions. It’s a great watch — we’re breaking it down so you can try the workout today. Be sure to check out the full video for all the details.

Key Points:

• Day 2 is a shorter ultra day: ~15 mi (≈ 24 km) with about 5,300 ft (≈ 1,615 m) of climbing followed by a long descent into Telluride.
• The route is a mix of high‑altitude road climbs (Camp Bird Road, Virginia’s Pass, Kroger’s Canteen) and rugged single‑track sections.
• Navigation is tricky – Sage relies on a GPX track on his Chorus watch and keeps an eye on aid‑station mile markers (around mile 70 on the counter‑clockwise version).
• Gear management is critical: he shuttles tents, food, and extra clothing, and uses traction devices on snow/ice for safety on steep pitches.
• Practical tips include: pre‑load a GPX file, scout aid‑station locations, use traction on icy sections, and pace conservatively on long climbs to preserve legs for the descent.

Workout Example:

• Total distance: 15 mi (≈ 24 km)
• Elevation gain: 5,300 ft (≈ 1,615 m)
• Structure:
  1. Start at Ouray – warm‑up on flat road (0.5 mi).
  2. Climb Camp Bird Road – steady effort, aim for ~70 % of max HR or easy‑to‑hold pace (no specific speed given).
  3. Reach Virginia’s Pass → Kroger’s Canteen – continue steady effort; if you have a Pacing app, set a target tempo that feels sustainable for the 5 k‑ft climb.
  4. Descent into Telluride – recover, stay alert for loose rock and snow; use traction if needed.
  5. Finish in town – cool down, check aid‑station location, hydrate.

Closing Note: Grab your GPS watch, load the route, and hit the road – you can even customize the paces in the Pacing app to match your own fitness. Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy the Colorado mountain scenery!

Remember to watch the full Sage Canaday video on Vo2maxProductions for more route details, gear insights, and the epic scenery that makes this day unforgettable.

References

• Running the Hardrock 100 mile course: “SoftRock” Day 2: Ouray to Telluride, Colorado! Sage Canaday - YouTube (YouTube Video)

Workout - SoftRock Mountain Simulation

• 15min @ 6'30''/km
• 75min @ 5'30''/km
• 45min @ 7'00''/km
• 12min @ 6'30''/km

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