Loon Mountain Race

The Loon Mountain Race returns to Lincoln, New Hampshire on July 12th, marking another year of challenging mountain runners with its steep ascents and scenic trails. Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, this race is a testament to endurance and determination, drawing participants from across the country for what has become an iconic event in the running calendar.
The landscape around Loon Mountain offers both beauty and challenge on race day. As summer sets in, the air carries hints of pine with each breath, while sunlight filters through the dense foliage, casting dappled shadows along the trails. The energy of the community is palpable; local residents line up alongside visitors to cheer runners as they tackle North Peak via Upper Walking Boss—a section known for its steep grade and technical terrain. This part of the race isn’t just a course feature but a rite of passage that separates those who dare from the rest.
Loon Mountain Race has been running since 2013, steadily building a reputation among mountain runners as one of the most challenging events in New England. With over $20,000 in prize money and an impressive following, this race attracts serious competitors looking to test their limits on North Peak’s black diamond trail. The top three men and women for both the Loon Mountain Men's Race and Women's Race receive significant cash prizes: $400 for first place, $250 for second, and $100 for third in each category. Additionally, there are special awards for those who excel on Upper Walking Boss, a one-kilometer stretch that requires both strength and agility.
The course itself is rigorous yet rewarding, starting at the base of Loon Mountain Resort and winding up North Peak via various trails marked with distinct difficulty levels. The ascent includes sections like Upper Walking Boss, known affectionately as 'The Boss', which challenges runners to climb a grassy slope exceeding 40% grade over roughly one kilometer. Alongside this grueling terrain are aid stations where participants can refuel and hydrate before tackling the next leg of their journey.
On race day, the weather around Lincoln typically feels mild with temperatures hovering around an average of 21.7°C (feels like), offering a comfortable climate for running despite high humidity levels at about 81%. With sunshine lasting approximately eleven hours thirty minutes and only minimal rainfall expected—around 5.8mm—the conditions favor runners who are prepared to face occasional winds averaging 7.2 km/h during their ascent up North Peak.