2023 Snowshoe Running Camp Recap
This past weekend, Rise Run Retreat hosted their Snowshoe Running Camp Powered by PUMA in the beautiful Evans Notch, Maine. The cozy lodge welcomed all participants on Friday evening, where they were greeted by a warm reception by the wood stove and a VIP swag bag overflowing with goodies.
Sarah Canney, founder and host of all Rise Run Retreat events and 2020 World Snowshoe Running Bronze Medalist gave a brief overview of snowshoe running and talked about her own experience. By asking the questions: what’s in it this for me? Sarah has experienced breakthroughs in her personal life and in sport because of snowshoe running. She encouraged participants to embrace the difficulty of snowshoe running find out what the activity had in store for them.
On Saturday morning, under bluebird skies, the group strapped on their Dion Snowshoes and headed out for a snowshoe run on the trails at Carter's XC Ski Center in Bethel, Maine. There they explored groomed nordic trails through the woods and along the Androscoggin River, before returning to the nordic center to refuel and hydrate with LMNT, the ideal hydration beverage for winter running. The adventurous group of women was eager for more and challenged themselves by heading out for two more miles on Carter’s more difficult “mountain trails,” where they were rewarded with a beautiful view of the valley and Sunday River ski area beyond.
The run was followed by a delicious warm soup and a strength session led by the host and running coach, Sarah Canney. Later in the afternoon a small group embarked on another adventure, a second run on the ridge above the Wild River in the golden light of the sunset. It proved the perfect ending to a day of exploration on the snow. The evening, the group cozied up to the wood stove in their OOFOS Slippers for more healthy food and games around the fire.
Sunday morning began with a quick and healthy breakfast before the group headed out on the trails again for an out-and-back run in the pines. Despite the chill in the air, each participant stayed warm with their top and bottom from PUMA’s Seasons Line. Designed for all elements, the running tights and top provide breathability and warmth for winter runs. Everyone’s toes were kept warm with the combination of PUMA’s Fast-Traa NITRO Trail Shoe and merino wool socks provided by Point6 Merino. There were plenty of opportunities for climbing, which provided stunning views of the White Mountains. After their final snowshoe run, the group returned to the lodge for one last meal together and chance to share their “takeaways” from the weekend.
The highlight of the weekend was the connection and authentic conversations that took place between the participants. Pushing out of comfort zones and realizing one's own strength were big takeaways from the event.
We’re already looking forward to next year's Snowshoe Running Camp. It was a memorable experience that left everyone feeling energized and motivated to continue their running journey.
Did you miss out on Snowshoe Running Camp? Give our Spring Retreat in Woodstock, Vermont a try. With trail runs, a sunrise hike and plenty of time to explore the local area, this might just be the event for you!
