Runner Handbook

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Welcome to the Wapack Wilderness Trail Race!

This is an 18-mile out-and-back journey along the Wapack Trail- a truly rugged and beautiful trail.

Starting at Windblown, runners will follow the Wapack Trail south toward Watatic Mountain Reservation before turning around and making the journey back. Along the way, expect technical footing, rocky ridgelines, roots, steep climbs and descents.

This race is meant to challenge you.

Date: September 19th, 2026 

Location: Windblown Camping, New Ipswich, NH

Race Start Time: 8:30 AM

Check-in/ bib pick up opens: 7:00 AM **Please check in by 8:15

Total Distance: 18 miles

Elevation Gain: 3,600 ft

Course Map: Strava link

Timing: RFAC

Results will be posted within one day after the race.

If you must drop prior to the race, please email admin@runningforacause.org.

Course Overview 

The course consists of an out and back on a technical trail system featuring rocks, roots, multi and single track and frequent changes in elevation.  Aid stations are located at the intersection of Binney Hill and the Wapack Trail and at the turnaround point at the parking area at Watatic Mountain.

Aid Station Provision Includes: 

• Hydration

• Light refreshment

• First aid basics

• Porta-potty is located near registration at Windblown Camping and at Watatic parking area.

This is a cupless race. Please bring your own reusable bottle, flask, or cup.

• Spectators are welcome at the start/finish area and the turnaround at Mount Watatic.

Rules & Safety

• No pets are allowed at any RFAC event

• No pacers are allowed

• Much of the course is tight singletrack—please be aware and courteous of other participants and hikers.

• Runners must complete the full marked course. No short-cutting

• If you drop from the race, you must check in with aid station or the timer at the start/finish area. Any runner who drops is responsible for their own transportation back to the start/finish line.

• If injured on course, notify another runner or flag down a volunteer. If injury is in need of serious medical attention, call 911 then call the Jessica at 603-620-0360 or Timothy at 603-620-0209.

• Basic medical support is available at the start/finish, Binney aid station and Watatic aid station.

• The race is held rain or shine.

• Please do not litter

Parking

• Parking is in designated area with signage at Windblown Camping.

This race runs on volunteers. Thank them when you see them.

Awards & Recognition

• 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will be awarded.

We are so excited to see everyone-

Come prepared. Respect the trail. Help the runner beside you. Embrace the hard parts.

And above all…

BRING YOUR GRIT.

We’ll see you on the ridge!

This race supports the Wapack Trail upkeep and the RFAC Community Outreach Fund. If you’d like to make an additional donation, you may do so at bib pickup or on Zeffy. 

Thank You