In 2020, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, races across the board were forced to be canceled or postponed. Some trail runners may have lost motivation. But trail running is not all about races. What is bubbling up inside me is a desire to once again convey the joy of trail running itself, and to convey the wonderfulness of running in the mountains.

Pargo Works has a backpack series for trail running called RUSH. Now it has grown into a model that is popular in races, but the series started out as a backpack for fun runs. Yes, RUSH is a backpack for enjoying running.

And now, as Pargo Works, we want to go back to our roots, that is, to rediscover the joy of simply running through the mountains. We thought that holding a fun run would be a good message to convey.

The ones who answered our request were RUSH runners Natchan and Kanchan. They take part in races as well as their private time, and trail running is truly their life's work. They are, of course, fans of the RUSH series.

Natchan & Kanchan

The two took PCR tests before participating in the location shoot.

The best of Hakone

This time, the two ran on the popular course around the Hakone outer rim, also known as Gaileen. Hakone is known as a hot spring resort, but you can enter the trail right from the hot spring town.

The caldera, which was created when the Hakone mountains were formed by volcanic activity, is about 50km long if you go around it. We have selected a great section that could be called the highlight. The distance is 14km. It is a course that can be enjoyed by both those who want to try trail running and those with experience.

The circumference of the Hakone outer rim is about 50km. This time, we circled the yellow section from Nagao Pass to Kintokiyama.

The starting point is Kintoki Shrine parking lot. After passing through the city, stop at Sengokuhara Susuki Grassland and follow the trail along the river. From Sengokuhara Marsh, climb up to Nagao Pass and reach the ridge of the outer rim of the volcano. From here, head north along the outer rim of the volcano, rest at the Fujimidai observation deck, pass Marudake and Otome Pass and head to the summit of Mt. Kintoki. Have lunch at Kintaro Teahouse, then make a quick descent and return to the Kintoki Shrine parking lot.

In this article, we will introduce the state of the field in chronological order and share Natchan and Kanchan's thoughts about trail running.

Now, let's get started on the "fun trail running" adventure!

Section 1: Kintoki Shrine Parking Lot to Nagao Pass Trailhead

The two are classmates from Shimada City, Shizuoka Prefecture. When they meet again after a long time, they can't stop talking.

8:20 Kintoki Shrine Parking Lot

From the Kintoki Shrine parking lot to Sengokuhara, we drove through the city. The weather was slightly cloudy. The city at a low altitude was bright, but there were thin clouds over the mountains of the outer rim in the distance. The forecast said it would clear up in the afternoon, so we headed forward hoping that the clouds would clear up by the time we reached Nagao Pass.

Ready, set, go! The two of them took off from the start.

8:45 Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Grassland

We arrived at Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Field. This is a stopover spot, so we took a straight road back and forth to the next point. This time, the purpose is to enjoy trail running, so there is no need to worry about time. If there is a place you want to go, you can stop by and not miss it, which is a unique feature of fun runs.

Return a little on the way you came to the trailhead that leads to the outer rim of the volcano. From here, you can run through nature like a regular trail runner. The trail is easy to run on with few ups and downs, and there are plenty of things to see right from the start, such as a pleasant stream and a bridge with a great view.

Section 2: Trailhead to Nagao Pass

9:27 Sengokuhara Marsh Hiking Course Entrance

As we continued on, we finally arrived at the trailhead, where the somma mountains towered majestically ahead of us. From here, we climbed about 200m to Nagao Pass.

9:50 Nagao Pass

We drove along a trail that looked like a green tunnel, with sunlight filtering through the trees, and before we knew it we arrived at Nagao Pass. We took a short break on the road before returning to the trail.

The weather forecast predicted clearing up towards the afternoon, but at this time Lake Ashi was still visible, shrouded in mist.

Once you pass the tree line, Lake Ashi comes into view below you. You can also see the ridge of the outer rim of the mountain surrounding the lake, and savor the sense of accomplishment.

10:14 Fujimidai

Arrived at Fujimidai. Took a short break and ate some snacks to lightly replenish. As the altitude increased, we entered the clouds, and the temperature dropped sharply. The conditions were not always consistent due to not only the weather but also the altitude difference. Be sure to adjust your clothing flexibly, take water and replenish supplies, and ride comfortably.

From here to Mt. Kintoki, the most enjoyable route runs along the ridge of the outer rim of the mountain.

Section 3: Fujimidai to Kintokiyama

Fujimidai to Marudake and Otome Pass are some of the most scenic sections of this route. The two were smiling from the start, and their excitement was building as they ran along the trail comfortably. With light equipment, they climbed with a sense of speed not found in hiking or mountain climbing. This dizzying pace is one of the attractions of trail running.

"Running compresses time so you can enjoy a variety of mountains. A route that would take two nights and three days to climb can sometimes be done in a day with trail running. The mountains offer things you can't experience in the city, such as beautiful scenery, the smell of plants and earth, the sounds of birds and wind. Each of these things is condensed into a short period of time, and I think that's the unique enjoyment of trail running (Kanchan)."

The "RUSH 12" used by the two this time is a medium-sized model that uses the VEST WRAP CONCEPT unique to the RUSH series. The shoulder harness with high storage capacity is integrated with the main body, making it feel more like "wearing" rather than "carrying" it. The 12-liter capacity is an exquisite size that can store the necessary layering clothes and snacks without excess or deficiency. As it is advertised as an "all-round model that can be used from everyday use to long races," it is extremely versatile. It is a model that can be safely recommended for first-time trail running packs.

You can eat mountain food without worrying about calories.

11:55 Otome Pass

Taking a break at Otome Pass. Although functional, energy-efficient foods are good for the road, "eating what you like" is also a key to enjoying trail running.

"Running burns a lot of calories, so my food tastes really good. I love to eat and I'm naturally prone to gaining weight, so trail running has helped me stay that way (laughs). I can eat delicious food even more deliciously without feeling guilty, and I get to experience things that I can't get in my everyday life. This is another reason why I find trail running so enjoyable (Kanchan)."

The final climb to Mt. Kintoki. It's the final sprint. Natchan and Kanchan continue to climb without stopping, but of course, if it's too hard, they can walk. They power walk on the steep climbs.

"Before I thought that because it was trail running, I had to run, but it's fine to walk and it's best to go at your own pace. Everyone has their own pace, so it's important to be considerate if the person you're going with is less fit than you. Trail running is just like mountain climbing, it's a way to play in the mountains. I think the most important thing is to return home safely (Nacchan)."

Section 4: Mt. Kintoki - Descend to the Kintoki trailhead

The customary pose near the summit in strong winds.

12:59 Mt. Kintoki

We reached the summit of Mt. Kintoki (1212m), the highest point on this trip. We took a 40-minute break at Kintaro Chaya, where we ate the famous "Masa Curry Udon." From here, it was all downhill. Since we had plenty of time before the descent, we decided to go off route a little and do a round trip on the bamboo thicket trail.

The pleasant Sasa Ridge continues all the way to Karikawa Pass.

14:29 Kintoki trailhead

We descended to the Kintoki trailhead, marking the end of the Hakone outer rim trail run. We then leisurely returned to the parking lot, where our journey came to an end.

Although they were taking it easy, the two of them started running on the way to the parking lot.

After descending the mountain, I stopped off at a nearby cafe to replenish my sugar. The more intense the movement, the more delicious the snacks tasted. Another great thing about Hakone is that there are cafes and sweet shops right when you get off at the town.

The course around the somma that I ran this time is not particularly difficult in terms of distance, and you can enjoy some amazing scenery, so it's easy to see why it's so popular. There are plenty of things to see, including a pleasant trail surrounded by greenery, a climb that leaves you feeling accomplished, and the somma ridge that mountain lovers will love.

However, this is a mountain range where conditions can change easily depending on the weather and wind direction, so be sure to check the weather forecast carefully and make sure you are well equipped. With the summer season coming up, you'll also want to be mindful of damage caused by the heat. Don't forget to take precautions against the sun as well as water. There are many climbers especially on the trails around Mt. Kintoki, so be sure to take precautions for safety and security, such as slowing down when passing other climbers.

Finally, I would like to conclude with our impressions.

"Running on the outer rim is very satisfying because you can see the ridgeline ahead of you, and when you look behind you you can see the path you came and it gives you a sense of accomplishment. There are also many sights such as Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi. The scenery is beautiful and it's easy to run, so it's no wonder it's popular with runners. Next time I'd like to create a course that connects tourist spots such as Hakone Yumoto, Motohakone, and Owakudani while also running in the mountains. A 'travel run' that includes the mountains too (Nacchan)."

"The charm of this course is that it has so many different spots, even though it's only a little over 20km. It was a great deal to be able to enjoy fields of silver grass (it would be even more beautiful in autumn!), woods along a stream in a villa area, beautiful Lake Ashi, delicious food at a mountain hut on Mt. Kintoki, and trails brimming with greenery. This time, the route climbed from the Lake Ashi side, so I had to look back to see the lake, so next time I'd like to do the opposite route. I'm sure you'll be impressed by the view of Lake Ashi when the visibility clears. Also, there were clouds so we couldn't see Mt. Fuji very well, but I'd like to try again (Kanchan)."

Backpack for Fun Runs: RUSH 12

Natchan (height 161cm) Kanchan (height 149cm)

Finally, let's take a look at the details of the RUSH 12. As mentioned at the beginning, this is a highly versatile model, and is not only great as a first trail running backpack, but also has a wide range of uses, covering long-distance trails and races that require a lot of equipment. Although it is a one-size-fits-all bag, the shoulder strap can be adjusted to a wide range, making it easy for petite women to use.

The shoulder harness has two pockets, one above the other. We recommend putting thicker items such as bottles on the outside, and slimmer items such as sunglasses and snacks on the inside. The outer pocket has a bungee cord to prevent bottles from falling out.

The main compartment is a type that opens and closes with a zipper from the top. There is a sub-pocket inside, which is convenient for storing valuables. A vertical zipper pocket is used on the front. Here you can store things that you want to access quickly, such as snacks.

The bottom pocket can be accessed even while wearing the backpack. It is convenient for storing wind shells, gloves, etc. A bungee cord can be attached to the front, allowing you to carry items that do not fit in the backpack, such as jackets.

There are also comments from RUSH users Natchan and Kanchan.

"The pockets are very convenient. The shoulder pocket can hold a plastic bottle or a smartphone, and the bottom pocket is very useful as you can store your shell while wearing the backpack. Also, the fabric is stretchy so the backpack doesn't shake around when you're running, and the shoulder harness fabric is a soft mesh so it doesn't hurt even when you wear it for a long time. There are many features I like. Another great thing about it is that it has enough capacity to hold both your bath kit and winter gear (Nacchan)."

"Until I found RUSH, I had trouble finding a backpack that fit my body. When I participated in the 2019 UTMF, I was recommended the RUSH 5R, and when I tried it on, it fit perfectly. I've been using it ever since, for races and regular training. The same goes for the RUSH 12 I'm using today, but the fabric stretches even when you put a lot of luggage in it, so it fits my body snugly. It doesn't shake around even when I'm running, so I can enjoy trail running without stress (Kanchan)."

Natchan & Kanchan's equipment list

For those of you wondering "What kind of equipment should I take?", we will introduce Natchan and Kanchan's equipment. In addition to clothing, snacks, and drinks for safety, it also includes a sense of fun to make trail running even more enjoyable. Check it out.

Related Links

This course

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=10Zehh7wcaPNUmmO_CSa8mtvi3f8XwZpn&usp=sharing

Nacchan's YouTube channel

https://www.youtube.com/c/natchan_run/featured

Hakone Geopark

http://www.hakone-geopark.jp/

RUSH 12

RUSH10