Vulcans Fury Trail Race

The Vulcans Fury Trail Race returns to Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham, New Hampshire on October 11th, offering runners a challenging technical course through the park's rugged terrain that once teemed with volcanic activity. Participants will experience sections of dense forest, single-track switchbacks, and rocky climbs along the Devil’s Staircase, culminating in breathtaking views from some of the highest elevations in New Hampshire. The race has been an annual event since its inception, attracting over 300 runners each year who come to test their endurance against one of the most demanding trail races in the region.
On race morning, participants can expect a setting that is both serene and rugged, with early autumn foliage adding vibrant colors to the landscape. The park’s trails are lined with dense forest and rocky outcroppings, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation as runners prepare for what lies ahead on their route. With each step through Pawtuckaway State Park, participants will be surrounded by nature in its most raw form, from crossing streams and bridges to navigating the challenging Devil's Staircase.
This event supports local endurance athletes looking for a significant challenge within one of New Hampshire’s scenic locations. Each year, runners gather at Pavilion 128 Mountain Road early on race day before heading out into what promises to be an unforgettable experience through some of New England’s most striking and technically demanding trails. The course is known for its unique terrain features that require careful negotiation, making it a true test not just of physical fitness but also mental resolve.
The Vulcans Fury Trail Race takes place entirely within the boundaries of Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham, NH. Runners will traverse varied surfaces including rocky outcroppings and dense forest trails, with aid stations positioned at critical points along both the Half Marathon and 5 Miler routes to provide essential hydration and supplies. The elevation profile is steeply inclined, particularly noticeable during climbs up the Devil’s Staircase where runners must negotiate a series of challenging switchbacks.
Weather conditions on race day are expected to be mild with an average temperature around 12.3°C, ranging between minimums of approximately 7.7°C and maximum temperatures reaching about 16.9°C. The humidity levels will hover near 73%, creating somewhat damp trail conditions that may require extra caution when navigating the course’s technical elements. Trail surfaces are expected to be firm yet slightly soft underfoot, providing a challenging but fair surface for runners to push their limits.