North Country Trail Run

Saturday 13.1 Mile Half Marathon | Elevation Gain: 2,417 ft

13.1 miles of trails can be scary. But from the very first mile of the North Country half marathon you get hooked. Starting out and heading up what runners call 1/2 mile Hill (at approximately 2.4 miles) was an amazing rewarding challenge with such great twist and turns giving new exciting ups and downs and views the whole way. Hearing the enthusiasm coming from all the aid stations along the way (every 3-4 miles) gives runners hope and encouragement knowing there was great selections and wonderful people at each station making the next section all the easier. You never know 13 miles could have such a variety of terrain; from beach sand to pine needles, tall grass and back to gravel, oh and roots too. When climbing the last hill at about 12 miles runners say they feel like they’ve gone to heaven, the view at the top makes you forget all about the past 12 miles and looking forward to floating down that last hill through that last mile, more beach sand, gravel and pines and ready for the after party sporting the biggest medal you’ve ever earned. So much fun, most runners sit waiting for signups to open to guarantee you do it again in 12 months.

Saturday 26.2 Mile Marathon | Elevation Gain: 4,322 ft

If running a half marathon, whether at North Country which provides a nice challenge or another race leaves you wanting more, the North Country Trail Run Marathon is just what you need. When running the full marathon you have time to enjoy the different areas of the trail. At the start and when there are still running packs you will enjoy the serpentine trail up until about mile 4 or “half mile” hill which is where the climb thins the pack. The course, at that point is beautiful and relatively flat with a lot of pine and pine needles until the back half. Then there is another climb at mile 15, which has even the best runners walking by the time they reach the top. The course has a great section on an old rail bed through the pines which is a favorite area of most runners. Then it is a gut check as you get back into the climbs in the dark woods around miles 20 thru 24. You are rewarded after several tough climbs with a nice sandy downhill to the finish line, usually on tired legs. The marathon course support and volunteers are top notch and the after party is great. Aid stations are loaded with goodies and you always find what you need whether it was wet, fruity or salty.

Saturday 50 Mile Ultra Marathon | Elevation Gain: 6,968 ft

Running a 50 mile Ultra is a special experience and the North Country Trail Run will not disappoint. This course is full of beauty and full of challenges, which make it one of the best races around. You start the race on flat single trails and start to feel good but don’t worry, you’ll get over it. Around mile 4 you will encounter your first big climb, just remember it’s okay to hike this one, it’s too early in the race to waste too much energy. The course will then give you a few miles of rolling trails giving way to the relatively flat part of the course, but don’t worry, the hills will return. After each aid station starting with mile 14, you will see a decent climb, this will prepare you for the back half of the course. The hills will come fast and furious, but keep in mind the beauty or your surroundings and the company of your fellow runners. Aid Stations are fully stocked with many goodies, be prepared when approaching the station and try to get in and out without wasting too much time… and don’t forget to thank the volunteers! As you approach the end of the loop take a quick peek at the top of hill where you can see for more than 30 miles and enjoy your descent to the start/finish area. When coming through the start/finish area, take in all the well-wishers and try to capture some of their energy for the second half. After you finish the short loop leading you back to the start/finish area, get to the Aid Station and your drop bag and get focused on what lies ahead. Once you head out, don’t look back, just keep your focus ahead of you. As you approach the first big climb hopefully you saved some energy in the first loop, since this climb and the rest of them will seem twice as long this second time around. The course hasn’t changed but the miles will start to wear you down, Continual Forward Motion will get you to the next aid station and eventually to the finish line! Have fun every minute of your race, encourage your fellow runners and enjoy your finish!

Sunday 13.1 Mile Half Marathon | Elevation Gain: 2,417 ft

13.1 miles of trails can be scary. But from the very first mile of the North Country half marathon you get hooked. Starting out and heading up what runners call 1/2 mile Hill (at approximately 2.4 miles) was an amazing rewarding challenge with such great twist and turns giving new exciting ups and downs and views the whole way. Hearing the enthusiasm coming from all the aid stations along the way (every 3-4 miles) gives runners hope and encouragement knowing there was great selections and wonderful people at each station making the next section all the easier. You never know 13 miles could have such a variety of terrain; from beach sand to pine needles, tall grass and back to gravel, oh and roots too. When climbing the last hill at about 12 miles runners say they feel like they’ve gone to heaven, the view at the top makes you forget all about the past 12 miles and looking forward to floating down that last hill through that last mile, more beach sand, gravel and pines and ready for the after party sporting the biggest medal you’ve ever earned. So much fun, most runners sit waiting for signups to open to guarantee you do it again in 12 months.