NEWS: 1st 284mi Kokopelli’s Trail Double Record Attempt

Christof Teuscher
Update (Mar 20, 2021): There was a plan A, then a plan B. Later, a plan C, even a plan D. None of them worked. While there were still letters left at 171mi, no plan seemed viable anymore. This, and a lot more sand, in the video below. Also, a brief report here.

On Wed, Mar 17, 2021 Tue, Mar 16, 2021, I will make an ill-conceived 1st solo and self-supported record attempt to complete a double Kokopelli’s Trail traverse. To the best of my knowledge, no one has attempted a double so far. I may find out why. If successful, the total distance will add up to 2 x 142mi = 284mi. Surely, this must be good training for something.

The storm that was

Last weekend’s massive spring snowstorm wrecked havoc to my original plans. There’s currently over a foot of fresh snow on the ground above about 6,000ft. The La Sal Mountain Loop State Scenic Backway is closed.

Over the last few days, I’ve redesigned the entire approach and came up with a plan B:

  • The start was delayed for a day to allow for some of the snow to melt and to let another weather front pass.
  • Instead of starting in Moab, I will now start in the middle of the course at Dewey bridge. I will then do two out-and-backs from there.
  • I will do the low elevation (and snow-free) part from Dewey bridge to Loma and back first (148mi). That will allow for more snow to melt before I get into the high elevation parts between Dewey and Moab (132mi).
  • I have stashed snowshoes and winter gear for the high elevation parts.

[pullquote]”I am very intrigued to see how you rescue this week!” — Witness[/pullquote]

I have little faith in this plan, but since I’m here, I may as well get some dirt on my shoes. There will always be a lot of uncertainty and risk, whether you perceive it or not. If (big IF!) successful, the amount of snow and the expected endless snowshoe travel will make the adventure very slow. If I fail, I will surely have learned a few things in the process.

Kokopelli’s Trail double: 284mi of bliss?

Dropping supplies

As you can see from the image gallery below, dropping supplies was in itself already an interesting and challenging endeavor.

Dot watching

The planned start is on Wed, Mar 17, 2021 Tue, Mar 16, 2021, around 4am. You can track me in the embedded map below or go here. I will start at Dewey bridge, in the middle of the course, then do two out-and-backs. the Slickrock parking/trailhead in the Sand Flats Recreation Area just outside of Moab. That seems to be the start/finish for all record attempts so far. The turnaround point will be at Kokopelli’s trailhead just outside of Loma, CO.

Movie of the 2020 142mi Unsupported FKT