12 runners and Matt the Mountain Biker toured back in time to 1882 to visit the Historic Johnson Canyon Tunnel , about 10 miles northwest of Williams, Arizona. (Thanks to Don Bayles for the following photos).
With Mark, Howard, and Scott joining the group it was just like the first days of NATRA.
The out and back run was almost exactly a 10K, with the downhill return harder as the approaching winter storm brought 30-40 mile per hour head winds.
The inside of the tunnel briefly provided a sanctuary from the winds of March.
And yes, as it was a truly tough journey, as NATRA runners did see the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel!
If you missed out on this run, it is certain to become part of our repertoire! In addition, we will add the 10K abandoned Route 66 loop run in the same area and also add the Bill Williams Mountain climb to our list of great runs on the western edge of the Mogollon Rim! Bring on the snows so we can get rid of the wind!
