Scar Track Hell Loop

MUMC trail running trip to the Dandenongs!

For this trip, we will meet at the club rooms at 8 am and drive to the Dandenongs. The number of people who can come will depend on the number of cars, as it is too far to go to the trailhead via public transport. You must come to the trip meeting to attend the trip, or email me if you have come on a running trip before. Meeting attendees will get priority.

The Scar Track Hell Loop as it is affectionately known, is perfect if you are training for your next mountaineering expedition, a hilly event, or just enjoy doing things that feel stupid. We will start at the end of Glasgow Road and walk up the side of Mt Dandenong on Scar track, which is 800m long with about 300m elevation gain. Once at the top, we will run the cruisy flat to Burkes lookout, soak in the views and run down Zig-Zag, Dacite and Camelia tracks back to the start. Then we have a nice rest from running because we get to walk up hill again :)). This will repeat as long as the group can bear it. 3 laps is about 12kms and 1000m elevation gain. I expect it to take at least 2 hours, so anything more than that is a cherry on top. I will upload a gpx of the route so runners can split up if they want, but you must stay on the route. 

This run is half walking and half running. The walk is up a steep gradient on a semi-technical track, with rocks and roots so please wear appropriate shoes. The run is down well maintained double track but this is also quite steep and can be loose. I will be running slowly downhill to save my legs (and not stack).

I will be carrying a snake bandage, a first aid kit, and some lollies. Please bring your own water. You can wear a hydration vest or leave your bottle near the start of the track. I recommend bringing some kind of fuel. You can also choose to take a break at Skyhigh, the restaurant at the top of Mt Dandenong or bring your own lunch and stop at Burkes lookout.

This is labelled as intermediate because it's not technically challenging nor advanced running, but it will feel hard. You're welcome to have a chat with me at the Tuesday meeting before the trip if you are unsure of your ability to do this trip, but want to give it a crack. I'm putting this up early for some personal motivation to train and be ready for it!