Hundreds of runners and hikers look forward toย annual pilgrimage to the top of Squaw Valley

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For the past 34 years, on the first Saturday of August, hundreds of runners and hikers have made the annual pilgrimage to the top of Squaw Valley to enjoy a great workout with stunning views of Lake Tahoe and the High Sierra.

The 2015 event runs Saturday August 1st. Starting at the base of Squaw Valley USA (6,200โ€™) the course climbs the 3.6-mile mountain run to High Camp (8,200โ€™) where awards, raffle, music, light refreshments and beer are provided. Participants can choose to run or take a more leisurely pace and hike, or Nordic walk (hike with poles).

For the less energetic โ€“ let the cable car do the 2,000 foot elevation gain & join knowledgeable guides for the beautiful Flower Walk on easy rolling terrain while on the lookout for wildflowers. Theย  blooms are usually spectacular this time of year.

For many the event has become a way to celebrate life following personal struggles with cancer or in memory of a loved one who may have been less fortunate.ย There will be a flag at registration for those who wish to sign, and write names of loved ones. The flag will be carried up by a volunteer participant and we will hold a short prayer ceremony at the Awards ceremony. 20% of funds raised from The Squaw Mountain Run are donated toย The Tahoe Forest Health System Foundationย to help local cancer patients afford the care they need. In the last sixย years since Auburn Ski Club took over the event โ€“ we haveย  raised overย $15,000 for the Foundation.

Race entry includes:

  • Transport of your spare clothes up to High Camp (bring a compact bag (labeled with your name)ย  for your gear
  • 2 Aid stations on the course (first one with just water, second with water, energy drink & mini clif bars to fuel you for the last push to the finish)
  • Brad Henry Mugs for the top 3 men and top three women overall
  • Awards for the uphill competitors โ€“ top 3 places in 10 year age categories.
  • All participants entered in the raffle for some great prizes from Salomon and our other supporters
  • All participants receive a souvenir beer glass at the finish line.
  • Live music & light refreshments & beer at High Camp
  • Discounted tram ride to High Camp for spectators
  • Prayer flag at the awards to honor those who have lost their lives to cancer
  • Free cable car ride back down
  • Souvenir Salomon Tech shirts available on a first come basis beginning at reg

Discounted Cable Car rides to High Camp are available for friends and family at bib pick up before 8:30am (cash or check only โ€“ payable to Auburn Ski Club.ย  No Credit cards please).

Volunteers are needed at registration, feed stations and High Camp. Earn a free tram ride by helping out! Please m.seifert@assoc.auburnskiclub.org if you canย volunteer.

To register or for more information, visitย auburnskiclub.com.