The Black Run is the oldest trail at Aston Hill, a favourite track of many, and probably the steepest trail of the park. While Root Canal and Ricochet have steep sections, the Black Run stays steep from the moment it starts right down to the drop into the mega berm and table-top at the bottom. A more ‘natural’ and old-school trail, you’ll encounter bermed switchbacks, the ‘Gnarnia’ rock garden, roots, drops and steep off-camber sections as you descend. Originally designed by Rob Warner using his World Cup experience to be a hard and testing track, nothing in that philosophy has changed since Aston Hill opened its gates in 1997. It still follows the same lines down the hill, but has been constantly tweaked and updated over time to keep it fresh and challenging. The Black Run may be the old man of the park, but – like Rich Abbott – it’s tough and experienced, and can still catch you out!