On Sunday, December 20, at 5:00 a.m., get ready to run a very special course—The Dancing Rock Run and Dancing Rock 50k. This course revives a race created by Tony Godino and Dave Cope around the time the Loop was invented but adds a whole lot more. The 14k “classic” starts at 8:00 and makes one loop of the course. Or make it a double for a 28k run.

Stage 1: Perimeter Loop Starts Promptly at 5:00 a.m.

Complete a 12.1 mile perimeter loop as shown on the map.

Stage 2: Run the Dancing Rock 14k course clockwise.

Run the 14k course (or the Legacy course) clockwise. I will place a book in a hole in a tree at Dancing Rock. Tear out the next page in the book as proof you’ve made it to that point and bring it to me or send a photo.

Stage 3: Run the Dancing Rock 14k course couterclockwise

Run the Classic Dancing Rock Course in the reverse direction. Tear a second page from the book at Raven Rocks

Stage 4: Complete the final loop

Complete the final loop of the course heading out on Green.

This is not a race. There are no prizes. The winner only gets bragging rights ad some great memories. Bring a change of clothes to keep warm and hang out after the run anyway. Note: the trail near Michigan Road (often called the “Swamp Trail”) now passable. You’ll get your shoes wet and muddy, but that trail earns its name.

From the archive: Last year’s Cobweb Crew