Ascend Fall Training Camp

We’re kicking off a new season of training, and registration for the next Ascend Trail Running Camp is officially open.

The last few months have been busy, and Ascend athletes showed up. We had over a dozen finishers at Cool Moon, including multiple runners completing their first 50 miler and 100 miler. Several runners landed on the podium, and a few pushed through brutal conditions to gut out some of the toughest finishes we’ve seen. We also had a strong crew all over Western States weekend pacing and crewing, to volunteering on the livestream. It’s been a solid summer. Now we shift into training for the fall.

Fall Training Camp Overview

Camp Dates: July 16 – November 2
Location: Sonoma County Trails
Registration: UltraSignup

This is a 16-week group training program geared toward trail runners training for fall races at a variety of distances ranging from shorter trail events to 100 milers. The structure includes weekly group runs, optional recovery sessions, and targeted preparation for several regional races.

The camp is designed to help runners build fitness progressively over the season, with flexibility for different goals and backgrounds.

Weekly Schedule

Wednesdays – 5:45 PM – Channel Dr, Santa Rosa
Speed, hills, and technique work. These workouts focus on developing strength and efficiency. Every session includes a dynamic warm-up, a structured group workout, and optional cooldown and stretching.

Saturdays – 7:30 AM – Sonoma County Trailheads (rotating)
Long runs on trails similar to race-day terrain. These will range from 1.5 to 5 hours depending on training level and race goals. Some routes will align with fall race courses, offering good opportunities for previews. We’ll rotate trailheads to keep it varied and to build comfort across different trail conditions.

Sundays – 10:30 AM – Optional Recovery & Strength (location TBA)
These 60-minute sessions are low-key but effective: mobility work, foam rolling, basic strength exercises, and stretching designed to improve recovery and support overall durability through the season.

Races We’re Targeting

While runners are welcome to train for any event, we’re focusing this season on preparing for:

October 11: Napa Lapa Trail Adventure
October 18: California Fall Classic (Lake Sonoma)
November 1: Rio Del Lago 100 Mile Endurance Run
November 8: Mt. Tam Trail Run

We’ll schedule specific workouts and course previews aligned with these races when possible.

Training Groups

We offer two tracks to help runners train at the right effort level:

Finish Group – For runners aiming to complete the distance, stay consistent, and build confidence on the trails. Great for anyone doing their first trail race, stepping up to a longer distance, or returning from time off.

Improve Group – For runners with a solid base and experience who are working toward performance goals like PRs, better pacing, or placing in age groups. This track includes more intensity and guidance on race-day strategy.

Both groups share the same core structure but adjust workouts based on individual training history, goals, and recovery needs.

Additional Features

Trail Maps & Training Guides – Access detailed route maps for our long runs, plus tips for managing trail-specific challenges like heat, vert, and technical terrain.
Coaching Support – Coaches will lead most group runs and are available for questions, pacing tips, and gear/fueling feedback.
Community Volunteering – Opportunities to support local races or trail work days. This isn’t required, but it’s part of what keeps the trail running scene strong—and it’s a good way to get familiar with events from another angle.

Who This Is For

This camp is designed for trail runners of all levels who are running at least 3–5 days per week and are looking for a structured and social way to build toward a fall race or simply to train. You don’t need to be fast, experienced, or even totally confident—just willing to show up regularly, run with a group, and work toward a clear goal.

We’re not here to sell motivation. We’re here to train.

🔗 Register on UltraSignup

Questions? Hit reply or reach out directly. Otherwise, we’ll see you on the trails.

— The Ascend Team