Acadia Half Marathon
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Acadia Half Marathon and 10K
The Acadia Half Marathon and 10K is an annual sporting event organized by the Mount Desert Island (MDI) YMCA. The event serves as one of the organization's primary fundraisers, with proceeds supporting scholarship programs that provide community members with access to wellness services and healthy living activities.
Participants can choose between two main distances:
- Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
- 10K
The 13.1 mile course is located on the scenic Acadia National Park Loop Road on Mount Desert Island, the second-largest island on the eastern seaboard. The route features views of the Maine rocky coastline, cliffs, and the mountains within the 41,000 acres of Acadia National Park. This event is notable for being one of only a few races permitted within the National Park boundaries. The half marathon distance is open to both runners and walkers.
As part of an environmental initiative to protect the natural landscape, the organizers are working toward "cupless" racing. While six water stations are provided along the course, participants are encouraged to carry their own reusable cups, handheld bottles, or hydration packs to reduce the use of paper cups.
Race materials must be collected in advance, as there is no packet pickup available on the day of the event. The race is based out of Bar Harbor, Maine, with the MDI YMCA serving as the central hub for the event's administration. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.