Trail Running Backcountry Essentials
A Guide to Mountain Running
Hey Cirque Running community! We hope this message finds you well and having a good start to the week.
After numerous requests, we've put together our Trail Running Backcountry Essentials video! Every trail runner should have a solid understanding of what it takes to travel safely in the mountains on big days out. In this video, we break down the essential gear you should carry on any significant backcountry run, along with a quick checklist of key considerations to keep in mind before heading out. Whether you're an experienced trail runner looking to validate your current kit, or completely new to running in the mountains, this video is a well-rounded resource for trail runners of all levels. We’ve uploaded this video to our YouTube Channel due to the size of the file so click the link below to check it out!
Trail Running Backcountry Essentials | A Guide to Mountain Running Link
This video is intended for educational purposes only and is not meant to serve as a complete or comprehensive guide to trail running in the backcountry. As noted throughout the video, the gear and practices shown represent a bare minimum baseline for approaching mountain running safely. Runners taking on larger objectives may choose to carry additional equipment, while those on shorter, more familiar routes may opt for a lighter kit. Consider this video a starting point — particularly for those newer to mountain and backcountry running — rather than a definitive resource.
If you're looking to explore the backcountry in your local mountains, be sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page — where you can download tracks we've already run and load them directly onto your watch or phone. This page is continuously updated, so take advantage of the routes already available and check back weekly as we add more!
Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to stay up to date with all of our latest trail running content. Enjoy the video, and start planning your next adventure in the mountains!
Video Topics
Preparation
Checklist
Run with a Partner
Leave a Note
Know the Weather Forecast
Understand the Terrain
Download your GPX Route
Understand the Permitting System
Equipment
Ultraspire Running Vest Alpha 6.0
650mL Soft Flasks
Platypus Quick Draw Water Filter
Neversecond Fuel & Hydration
Makeshift Wag Bag
Garmin InReach Mini 2
Suunto Race Watch
Blackdiamond Carbon Z Poles
Sunglasses & Sunscreen
Medical Kit
Clothing
Patagonia Duckbill Cap
Patagonia Capilene Cool Ultra Hoody
Patagonia Airspeed Pro Pullover
Patagonia R1 Full Zip Hoody
Patagonia Houdini Jacket
Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts
Hoka Tecton X3
Sierra Trail Runs Guidebook
Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels
Website: cirquerunning.com
GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files
Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching
Instagram: @cirquerunning
Facebook: Cirque Running
Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. We are Trail Runners. Mountain Guides. Educators. Forged in the Sierra, Cirque Running exists to elevate your running — through professional coaching and expertly crafted trips across the Range of Light and California.