This fall’s featured trail runner is Mike Tyler. Mike works for the City of Salem Community Services/ Urban Forestry. When not running, Mike likes to soak in a sauna or hot springs, visit brewpubs, and do home grilling or cooking.

How did you get into trail running?

I fell out of love with road racing and saw how friendly and helpful trail runners are. Way more my cup of tea

What is your favorite trail to run on?

My favorite trail would be Catamount at the 214 trailhead, South of Silver Falls Conference Center.

What is your favorite trail race?

My favorite race might be the Western States Endurance Runs. This one has a lot of hype, but if you make it to Western and get to race it, you have arrived. This is like the Boston Marathon, but with the trail vibe, legends are born and are still there. For a local race, I would pick McDonald Forest, either 50k or 15k. The races are in different seasons, but both have that local flavor and usual peeps helping racing or cheering!

 

Mike at McDonald Forest 50k (Teri Smith)

 

What are your weekly average running miles and ascent?

I run 30 to 60 miles and around 2 to 4k vert per week.

What is a typical weekday run?

Five to eight miles on the roads or through three parks in Salem.

What is a typical weekend run?

I run at Silver Falls State Park with one or two heeler dogs on the weekends.

 

Mike and Luna running Storm the Castle (James Holk)

 

What shoes do you wear?

I have Saucanny Peregrines. They have the best grip for the tech terrain. I also wear Topo Athletics because they have a wide toe box. I also have Hoka Tectons I bought because of Western States 100. They worked really well for that race.

Ultimate Direction Men’s Velum Running Tights $89.95

What is your favorite trail running apparel?

For socks, I like Darn Tough because, well, they are darn tough. My current pack is an Osprey, with Euro clips. I’ve used Nathan, UltrAspire, and Camelbak.

What watch do you wear?

I have two Garmins, a Fenix 6 and a 7. I like the battery life and durability. I can’t see the small numbers with my old eyes.

What nutrition do you like to use on runs and races?

For nutrition, I use Hammer Parpetuem. I also do Tailwind and recently bought some Gnarly Nutrition. I like bacon and broth smoothies on ultras. Plus, I also use pickle juice when hot.

 

The prized sub-24-hour buckle from the Western States Endurance Runs.

 

What do you like most about the trail running community?

I like that the community will help you, say if you need a salt tab, medical help, or just some food or help to make it to an aid station or loan you a light or help if you are lost.

Follow Mike on Strava.

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