You are here:
Mad Marathon
Race Details:
- Location: Waitsfield, VT, USA
- Race Date: 07/11/2027
- Race Distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Boston: Yes
World Marathon Majors: Yes
Mad Marathon Description
The Mad Marathon is a Boston qualifying race through Vermont’s scenic Mad River Valley, often called one of the most beautiful marathons in the country. The mostly road course rolls past covered bridges, dairy farms, and mountain views, with a challenging, hilly profile that lives up to its name. A half marathon, 10K, 5K, and relay options run the same weekend, making it a full celebration of Vermont’s countryside. Despite its small size, the race draws runners from across the country for its stunning scenery and tough terrain.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
Share This Race
Shop This Race
Handpicked for runners toeing this line.
Mad Marathon Additional Details:
Local nonprofit groups host the aid stations at Mad Marathon, spaced every two miles or so and staffed by volunteers who treat the job like a community event rather than a chore. One unofficial favorite comes from an older gentleman known for handing out ice-cold water and fresh watermelon slices along the course, the kind of small-town touch that keeps runners coming back. At the finish, the announcer greets many runners by name, and the post-race spread swaps typical bananas for local Cold Hollow Cider Mill cider and cider donuts. Even the finisher medal carries a farm-inspired design that ties back to the dairy country the course runs through, a fitting keepsake for one of Vermont’s most character-filled race days.
Course Information
Profile: Hilly
Type: Mostly Out and Back
Surface: Mostly Road/Pavement
Pace Groups: Yes
Time Limit: 6 hr 30 min
# of Finishers
Half Marathon: 300
Marathon: 246
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: 2,134 ft (650 m)
Elevation Loss: 2,133 ft (650 m)
Average Temperature
- Low: 57°F
- High: 77°F
Train Smarter for Race Day
A great race starts long before the starting line. Whether you’re chasing your first finish or hunting a new PR, a structured training plan takes the guesswork out of race prep — building your fitness, your confidence, and your mileage at the right pace for you.
Explore plans for every distance and experience level, from your first 5K to your next ultra.
Things to Do in Waitsfield, VT, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Sports & Entertainment
Big Picture Theater & Café
Catch a film at the Big Picture Theater & Café, a beloved independent cinema and gathering spot in Waitsfield — a relaxed, low-impact evening outing after race day.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Warren Falls
Relax at Warren Falls, one of Vermont’s most popular natural swimming spots, with crystal-clear pools and natural rock slides — a relaxed way to spend a rest day.
Landmark
Mad River Glen Ski Area
See Mad River Glen, a Vermont landmark known for its ‘ski it if you can’ motto and historic single chairlift — an easy, low-impact stop after race weekend.
Outdoors & Trails
Mad River Path
Walk, run, or bike the Mad River Path, a scenic multi-use trail network winding along the Mad River through Waitsfield — an easy option for tapering or recovering legs.
Food & Drink
Waitsfield Farmers Market
Browse local produce, cheese, maple syrup, and crafts at the Waitsfield Farmers Market, held Saturdays from late May through October — a relaxed way to refuel after race day.
Arts & Culture
Waitsfield Cooperative Gallery
Browse work from more than 150 local artisans at a cooperative gallery housed in an 1830s general store in historic Waitsfield — a relaxed, low-impact walking stop after race day.
Hotels & Lodging Near the Mad Marathon
Compare nearby hotels and book your Mad Marathon race-weekend stay in seconds.
Sunrise Running Company may earn a commission if you book through the map below, at no extra cost to you.
Featured Race
A pancake-flat course made for chasing a PR — and a Boston Qualifier.
Boston Qualifier: Yes