Get ready for one of the toughest trail races in the East at the Monster Marathon & Half Marathon, hosted by Finger Lakes Runners Club, in Kennedy State Forest near Virgil and Harford, NY.
This grueling event follows a 13.1-mile loop on rugged, scenic single-track trails through Daisy Hollow and Babcock Hollow—with the half completing one loop and the marathon doubling back for a 26.2-mile undertaking. Expect a blend of rolling terrain, steep climbs (including a brutal hill in the last two miles), shaded hemlock groves, fern-carpeted forests, and occasional long vistas.
What truly sets this race apart is the age- and gender-adjusted start system, where older runners, women, and nonbinary participants receive early starts based on World Masters age-grading tables—adding a competitive twist and leveling the playing field.
Support is thoughtfully provided with aid stations every 3–4 miles; though it’s a cupless event, so runners must bring their own hydration solution. The course is challenging—marathoners will face approximately 4,400 ft of elevation gain, and half marathoners must conquer about 2,200 ft, so come ultra-ready.
Finisher support includes a five-hour cutoff, clear parking directions, and a close-knit trail community atmosphere. Whether you’re chasing an ultra PR or trail miles before fall races, this event offers a raw, scenic, fiercely competitive trail run that lives up to its monstrous name.
Why Monster Marathon stands out
This race lives up to its name—a true test of strength, strategy, and mental grit. The combination of age/gender-adjusted starts, lock-step cutoffs, and rugged beauty creates a uniquely rewarding, communal trail experience. Perfect for seasoned trail runners or those eyeing ultra prep—if you’re ready to test limits and break from the beaten path, the Monster Marathon awaits.
