Prepare for an unforgettable challenge at the Boulder Beast, returning on September 19, 2026, to the scenic trails of Lock Haven, PA. Known as the course that ignited the trail racing craze in central Pennsylvania, this event offers both a formidable 24-mile course and a challenging 25K option, ensuring every runner can experience its unique terrain. Starting and finishing at the Castanea Township Fire Company picnic grounds, runners can enjoy ample free camping and parking, alongside a lively pre-race party and a hearty post-race picnic with great food and beverages.

The Boulder Beast is renowned for its signature, infamous boulder field—a nearly mile-long climb up Bald Eagle Mountain that often requires runners to scramble on all fours. Beyond this defining feature, the course winds through rugged, technical singletrack, incorporating trails like Goat Path, Lightning Ridge, Gut Check, and the Gorge Trail. Expect approximately 6,000 feet of vertical gain on the longer course, navigating numerous hills, rocks, roots, and stream crossings, with about 95% of the race on un-paved trails. Runners consistently praise the "stupidly beautiful" scenery, particularly the breathtaking views from Rote Overlook, making the intense physical and mental effort truly rewarding.

Typical race day conditions in mid-September feature pleasant highs around 76°F and lows around 53°F, with a relatively low 13% chance of precipitation. The event is celebrated for its meticulously marked course, well-stocked aid stations at strategic points, and the unwavering encouragement from dedicated volunteers. However, be prepared for strict cut-off times along both distances, designed to ensure runner safety and a daylight finish. The Boulder Beast is more than just a race; it's a "true test of the runner's spirit" and a deeply inspiring event that fosters camaraderie among participants, leaving many eager to return year after year despite its notorious difficulty.