Favorite Trail: West Slabs of Mount Olympus

Photographer: Dan Krauss

Runner: Zach Marion, 32, of Salt
Lake City, Utah

Beta: The West Slabs of Mount Olympus offer some of the most exciting and steep “trail running” that any area has to offer. The wide slab stretches more than 1,500 vertical feet and can be “run” on almost any section of it.

Once the ridge is gained, you can continue up steeper trails to the proper summit, or just head straight back down the gully for a thigh-burning trundle on loose scree. This is definitely not your average trail run, but, if you have the skills, it is one that will leave you invigorated and feeling accomplished.

Seasons: Late spring through fall, depending upon snowfall.

Difficulty: The terrain is rated 5.5 by climbing standards, but most anyone with relatively decent climbing experience should be fine on the route, though it is certainly heads-up and should not be taken lightly.

Info: www.mountainproject.com/route/105740522/the-west-slabs