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What gear do I need for night trail runs before AC100?
Bring one dependable primary light, one true backup light, and enough battery for delays, not just your planned finish time. Add a light layer and emergency basics so you stay functional if pace drops in cold canyon air.
Last updated: 2026-02-18
What should be on your checklist?
Use this checklist to cover the essentials before race day or your next key training run.
- Primary headlamp tested at target brightness for full duration.
- Backup light reachable without unpacking everything.
- Power backup (battery or bank) plus cable compatibility checked.
- Layer, whistle, and basic emergency calories packed.
What steps should you follow?
Follow these steps in order so your plan stays simple and repeatable under AC100-style conditions.
- Charge all lights before leaving and verify runtime settings.
- Do a five-minute light and fit check at the trailhead.
- Switch lights before total battery failure if output drops noticeably.
- If footing or visibility degrades beyond safe control, turn around early.
AC100 night sections reward conservative decisions and reliable systems more than peak brightness alone.
The Angeles Crest Mission Pack
Want the tighter paid layer behind these free guides? The Mission Pack includes the Field Manual, Dark Mode Manual, 6 matched GPX routes, Mission Console, and trail awareness notes in one system.
What should you read next?
Use these related guides to build a full plan across training, logistics, and race-day execution.