Vermont 100 Endurance Race

Prepare for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Vermont as the legendary Vermont 100 Endurance Race returns to Silver Hill Meadow in West Windsor on July 17-19, 2026. This iconic event, a pillar of the ultrarunning community since 1989 and a proud member of the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning, challenges athletes across 100-mile and 100-kilometer distances. What truly sets this race apart is its unique heritage: runners share the picturesque course with equestrians competing simultaneously, a rare spectacle in American ultrarunning that harks back to the event's roots as a horse endurance ride.

The course, often described as "sneaky hard" with "unrelenting rollers," winds through the breathtaking southern Green Mountains, offering a blend of rural charm and demanding terrain. Expect approximately 68 miles of rolling dirt roads, 30 miles of challenging horse trails, and a mere 2 miles of pavement for the 100-mile distance, accumulating a formidable 17,000 feet of total ascent. The 100-kilometer race mirrors this beauty, featuring around 41 miles of dirt roads, 20 miles of horse trails, and 1 mile of pavement, with 9,000 feet of climbing. While there are no colossal climbs, the continuous undulations will test your endurance as you traverse open fields, country farms, and dense forests. The course is not publicly mapped or available for pre-running due to its reliance on over 30 private properties, adding to the mystique and adventure.

Runners consistently praise the exceptional atmosphere and camaraderie, fueled by the enthusiastic and well-stocked aid stations scattered frequently along the route—25 for the 100-miler and 16 for the 100K. These hubs of support offer everything from standard ultra-fare to hot food and drinks after dark, with a notable highlight being the lively "party on the course" at Camp 10 Bear, which runners visit twice. Beyond the personal challenge, participating in the Vermont 100 contributes to a greater cause, as all proceeds benefit Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through sports—a commitment highlighted by the race's pioneering adaptive athlete categories. Typical race day conditions in July in West Windsor, Vermont, usually bring comfortable highs around 80-82°F and lows around 57-59°F, though runners should be prepared for potential humidity and some mud on trail sections.