When I read that the Subashiri trail had sand, I thought that would be less jarring and thus easier on the knees, but I read someone commenting that it was harder.
Which do you think?
Thanks
Comments for Which trail down is easier on the knees?
Lori, all the trails are very steep and there's very little one can do to prevent the buildup of lactic acid on the knees when descending, so I don't believe there is any strategy in choosing a particular trail to eliminate knee pain.
According to my calculations, the Subashiri trail has the second lowest percent grade (if that's any consolation), :-) but running down the Osunabashiri (sand slope, 大砂走り) may not be necessarily easier on your knees, and if anything, usually winds up jamming a climber's toes against the front of their boot.
If I were you, I'd make sure I had hard-soled boots with good ankle support & tops high enough (or gaiters) to prevent volcanic gravel and small pebbles from getting into your boots on your descent.
And good trekking poles or a Mt. Fuji walking stick can take some of the stress & strain off your knees.
Without question, one of the most exciting adventures of my entire life. 15 days, 2812 km (1750 mi), 6 national parks, a quasi-national park, and an uncountable number of national forests in Japan's l…
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