Week 1 Segment Details
Strava Link: Map and Leaderboard
Distance: ~2 miles
Average Grade: 5%
Elevation Gain: 750 feet
Course Records: Cameron Cogburn CR 14:30 | Kathleen Norton CR 19:04
Featured Business: Grind Coffee Co
Window for performances: Fri Sep 30th thru Sun Oct 4th
Segment Description:
A tough climb on single-track trail. For Shut-In 2020, this is a new portion of the course. Be cautious getting through the first 1/4 mile, which is very technical, then embrace the challenge of a long, often winding climb that lasts nearly 3/4 of a mile, until giving way to a brief but welcome descent, and then a gradual uphill the rest of the way.
Course Navigation:
Start – The intersection of the Blue Ridge Parkway On-Ramp and the Shut-In Trail
Finish – The opening of the trail where Hardtimes Rd and Shut-In intersect. This is recognizable as there is a small parking/pull-off area for the Blue Ridge Parkway on your left as you run through.
Turns – None. Just follow the trail.
Getting back: Turn right at the Hardtimes trail intersection to take more gradual path back down towards the Arboretum entrance, or turn around and do an out-and-back which will give you further appreciation for the steepness of the climbs you just conquered. Alternatively, make a left to going up Hardtimes trail and explore more of Bent Creek.
How can I fit this into a workout or use this to prepare for running Shut In?
This segment is a long, demanding climb: Practice relaxing your body when it feels like your heart is racing and you’re about to red-line. Maintaining proper form is also very important for long climbs — particularly during a race that has many more climbs and descents to go — so this segment presents an excellent opportunity to practice that.
Where can I park/how do I get there?
The easiest place to park is at Bent Creek River Park. From there, you can take the small path under the bridge to reach the BRP On-Ramp and turn left towards the Shut In Trailhead.
Alternatively, cross Brevard Rd towards the Arboretum and head left towards the Shut In Trailhead, which will then be on your right.
Segment Raffle Prize & All-Time Course Record Award
Complete the segment to be entered in the raffle for a Gift Card to Grind Coffee Co. Those who set an All-Time CR will also be presented with a Gift Card.
Grind is a new business (Grand Opening 9/26!) in the River Arts district offering quality coffee, pastries, and a co-working & event space. Help welcome them to our community with a visit and see for yourself! (C-T Article here)
