The Blue 2 Blue Challenge, set for May 3, 2026, in New Haven, CT, is renowned as "CT's Hardest 50k" and promises an unforgettable experience for seasoned ultrarunners. This isn't a race for beginners; participants must have completed a trail 50K or a similarly challenging event in the last year to even qualify. The course, an out-and-back journey starting at West Rock Playground, spans approximately 33 miles, yet its brutal nature makes it feel more akin to a 50-miler. Runners will navigate Connecticut's iconic "Blue" blazed trails, including the Regicides (West Rock) and The Quinnipiac Trail, with 95% of the route on unpaved terrain.

Prepare for a true test of grit and endurance with over 6,350 to 6,550 feet of climbing across extremely technical, gnarly, and rocky trails. The course features significant ascents like High Rock and the summit of Mt. Sanford around mile 12, offering glimpses of natural beauty such as Roaring Brook Park, home to Connecticut's tallest waterfall. Typical race day conditions in early May often bring comfortable highs around 65F and lows around 46F, with a relatively low 14% chance of precipitation, providing favorable weather for this demanding challenge.

The Blue 2 Blue Challenge is designed to be a self-supported endeavor, strictly prohibiting pacers and crews, adding to its unique allure. Aid stations are strategically placed along the course, offering water at miles 4 and 28.5, and more comprehensive support at Brooks Road (miles 8.1 and 24.5), Y Camp (miles 11.5 and 21). A crucial turnaround aid station at mile 16.4 in Prospect serves as the designated drop bag location, a welcome sight before tackling the return leg. With a strict 10-hour cutoff and a historical finisher rate just over 80%, crossing the finish line at Amrhyn Field is a hard-earned badge of honor.