This was the Maine State Championship for snowshoeing BUT there was not enough snow cover for snowshoes and the snow under the top few inches was frozen crusty so it was actually a trail race instead. It was a small crowd wearing an assortment of spikes, chains, and Yak Trax. The course was challenging with some long uphills, a very steep downhill (I hung onto a few trees to keep my balance), icy spots, and rocks. I never managed to get up very much speed because of the terrain and I am a real ankle wimp and am not very good at navigating technical trails. My fastest mile was actually on one of the steepest uphill sections because it was wide and clear with just snow. So it was a challenging run but very beautiful with some stretches through the forest and views of the lake and the mountains (when I managed to look up from my feet). It was really well marked and there were plenty of volunteers- one was even playing the harmonica! The oldest finisher was 80. After the race we had turkey chili and hot chocolate. A good day!