Soapstone Assault
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Soapstone Assault
The Soapstone Assault is a ~5.5 mile trail race held at Soapstone Mountain in the Shenipsit State Forest. The course requires runners to circumnavigate the base of the mountain in a counterclockwise direction. Each time a trail leading upward is encountered, runners must ascend it to the peak and then descend back down to the base circuit. This pattern is repeated for five different trails. A sixth and final ascent must be made up the trail known as "Killer Hill" to the finish at the base of a tower.
Runners make a total of six ascents of Soapstone Mountain during the event. The course includes steep, rocky, slippery, and treacherous areas. While injuries in past races have been minor, the organizers note that parts of the course are relatively inaccessible and emergency medical response could be delayed by an hour or more. Participants are expected to accept responsibility for these risks.
The race starts at the trail head sign near the blue-blazed trail entrance. Online registration is required and a discounted fee is available for paid members of the Shenipsit Striders running club. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
