Bear Brook Trail Races

The Bear Brook Trail Races return to Allenstown, New Hampshire on September 12th, offering runners a unique opportunity to explore the trails of Bear Brook State Park through two challenging distances: Half Marathon and Ultramarathon.
Participants will gather at Deerfield Road in Allenstown for a day that promises both scenic beauty and physical challenge. The park is known for its varied terrain—single-track paths wind through blueberry fields, steep uphills test endurance, and the trails offer runners an intimate connection with nature's rugged landscape.
This year marks the continuation of Bear Brook Trail Races’ commitment to minimal impact on the environment by adopting a no-cup policy at aid stations and emphasizing GPX navigation for all participants. The event has been supporting local conservation efforts since its inception and remains dedicated to preserving Allenstown’s natural beauty.
The course traverses through unmarked trails in Bear Brook State Park, requiring runners to download and utilize a provided GPX file for navigation. For the Half Marathon distance covering 21.1 kilometers, participants can expect firm yet slightly soft trail conditions conducive to both speed and stability. The Ultramarathon presents an even greater challenge with distances varying between 50k to 100k, pushing runners’ limits over undulating terrain.
Weather in September is generally mild but variable; morning temperatures typically hover around the low-20s Celsius (70°F) while afternoon highs may reach into the mid-30s Celsius (90°F). UV levels are moderate at an index of 5.0, so sunscreen and hydration should be part of every runner’s preparation.
The Bear Brook Trail Races offer two main distances: a Half Marathon covering approximately 21 kilometers and an Ultramarathon that spans anywhere from 50k to 100k.

Runners can register for the event through the official website at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=136891. The fee structure includes $45 for the Half Marathon and $75 for the Ultramarathon, with all registrations due by August 20th to secure a spot.
Bib pickup will occur on race day from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM at Deerfield Road in Allenstown. Runners must bring their own water bottles or soft flasks as no cups are provided at aid stations, adhering to the event’s zero-waste policy. The start location is also where participants should arrive for race day registration and packet pickup.
Starting lines will be marked on 157 Deerfield Road in Allenstown; all runners must adhere to age requirements specified by the United States Track & Field (USATF). First-time attendees are advised to review course maps, understand navigation instructions via GPX files, and prepare for variable weather conditions throughout their run.
The Bear Brook Trail Races will take place on September 12th in Allenstown, New Hampshire. This event is a testament to the enduring appeal of trail running and its ability to foster community engagement while preserving natural spaces like Bear Brook State Park through responsible race practices.