Running Up the Mountain

Discover a distance dynasty when you run with the Lumberjacks. Running Up the Mountain chronicles a collegiate dynasty a half century in the making. Northern Arizona University is situated in the altitude mecca of Flagstaff, which has become a training ground for the greatest runners in the world. Yet, as a remote outpost with no traditional powerhouse credentials, momentum built steadily before exploding over the past decade until NAU became the preeminent distance-running team in the country. Authored by Matt Baxter, a three-time cross country All-American who was integral to NAU's first three national championships, and Ron Mann, a Hall of Fame coach who is the longest-tenured in program history, the book authentically captures NAU's humble origins and growing pains, culminating in an intimate insider's perspective of the explosive success of the past decade that will delight running fans. Running Up the Mountain is a moving portrait of an elite squad with colorful characters fighting to remain at the summit of their sport, amid the pressure of intense rivalries and the jarring impact of COVID-19. From quaint beginnings to national champs, grit and commitment remain the defining feature...when you're running with the Lumberjacks.