The Mad Marathon, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Vermont’s Green Mountains, is a race that embodies the spirit of challenge and reward. Known for its scenic beauty and unique small-town charm, this event offers a one-of-a-kind experience for runners seeking to conquer both hills and personal limits. From covered bridges to rolling farmland, the course is as picturesque as it is demanding.

 

Why You'll Love It:

• Spectacular Scenery: The Mad Marathon lives up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful races in the world. The course winds through Vermont’s idyllic countryside, showcasing lush green mountains, serene farmlands, and charming covered bridges. Wildlife sightings and peaceful rural roads add to the experience.
• Top-Notch Race Production: The race is impeccably organized, with smooth packet pick-up, ample aid stations offering water and Gatorade, and enthusiastic volunteers cheering you on at every turn. The charming start and finish area, complete with a rustic barn design, captures the essence of Vermont.
• Community Vibes: The local community’s warmth shines through, with supportive spectators and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s a personal shoutout from the announcer at the finish line or a congratulatory hug from the race director, you’ll feel celebrated at every step.
• Unique Swag: The race medals and shirts feature adorable farm-inspired designs, adding a whimsical touch to your achievements. You’ll also enjoy local post-race snacks, including Vermont cheddar cheese, cider donuts, and fresh apple cider.
• Generous Time Limits: With a forgiving cutoff time, the race is perfect for walkers and back-of-the-pack runners who want to savor the experience without worrying about the clock.

 

Things to Keep in Mind:

While the Mad Marathon is a truly rewarding event, there are some aspects to prepare for to make the most of your race day.

• The Hills Are No Joke: This is one of the hilliest road marathons around, with steep climbs and descents that test your stamina. Embrace the challenge and plan to walk some of the uphills—it’s all part of the adventure. Downhill stretches are equally thrilling, offering a chance to pick up speed and enjoy the ride.
• Summer Weather: Held in July, the race can feature warm and humid conditions. Staying hydrated and pacing yourself are key. Many runners carry their own water for added convenience.
• Rustic Amenities: While the charm of a small-town race is undeniable, the event keeps things simple. Porta-potties may have lines, and the post-race snacks are tasty but modest. Think of it as part of the Vermont experience!
• Travel Logistics: Lodging in Waitsfield can be limited and pricey, so book early. For a more economical option, consider nearby Montpelier or Burlington. Better yet, treat yourself to the quintessential Vermont experience by staying at a local bed and breakfast.

The Mad Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s an adventure that rewards determination with unmatched scenery, a sense of community, and the thrill of overcoming one of the toughest courses in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner seeking a unique challenge or a half-marathoner looking to soak in Vermont’s beauty, this race is a bucket-list experience you’ll never forget. Lace up, embrace the hills, and let Vermont’s magic guide you to the finish line!

The Fourteenth Annual Mad Marathon is scheduled for July 13, 2025 in the gorgeous Mad River Valley, located in Central Vermont.

You will be running through this extraordinary rural community on 26.2 miles of back and dirt roads, with breathtaking views of the Green Mountains, tough rolling farm lands, quaint villages, historic barns, covered bridges and fields of our famous Vermont cows! Although you may know Vermont for it’s brilliant foliage, the Mad River Valley is equally beautiful during  the cool and breezy summer months.

Course Description

The race starts at the Mad River Green in central Waitsfield Village, and the course travels north on Route 100 for a short .6 mile before turning onto our first secondary road and through a covered bridge…on yes, Bridge Street. You will face your first climb about one mile into the race running up past an aid station and hitting a second station at the top of your climb on Joslin Hill Road and 2.2 miles into the race. Joslin Hill meets North Road and rolls along gently down hill for about another 2.5 miles, through Pine Brook Covered Bridge to your third aid station at Meadow Road. You are now traveling within Neill Farm on dirt roads and an absolutely fabulous introduction to our farmlands. When you reach Meadow Road you will turn left and run a short out and back section, and the turn left continuing along North Road until you reach the turnaround location at just over 6 miles into the race at Carpenter Farm..

Back along North Road you retrace your path up North Road and hit 9.4 miles at the Common Road intersection. You will run a short out and back section on East Road before hitting Common, a lovely dirt road with more extraordinary views of barns, farms and country homes all in a delightful rural setting. This stretch of the run is just under 3 miles and joins East Warren Road just over 12 miles into the run.

You will then turn left onto East Warren and run along this rolling countryside road for about 3 miles of stunning vistas. When you reach Roxbury Mountain Road you begin a four mile loop along four charming backcountry lanes (Roxbury, Senor, Fuller Hill, Plunkton) with amazing views, farms, barns and exquisite homesteads.

Returning to East Warren Road 19 miles into your marathon, you begin a gentle rolling downhill slope (including one famous “dip”) back to Bridge Street and then a short mile sprint to the FINISH LINE!

Course Map:

Additional Details

The Mad Marathon is sanctioned by USA Track&Field New England (Sanction No 11-206) and the course is USAT&F certified – VT22002JK.