Northern Nipmuck Trail Race
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Northern Nipmuck Trail Race
The Northern Nipmuck Trail Race is an out and back trail race held on the Nipmuck Trail near Bigelow Hollow State Park in Union, CT. The advertised distance is 16 miles, though the course may measure a little less; technical terrain and elevation are noted features.
Parking is available at Bigelow Hollow State Park and the race start is across the road from the park. A trail from the parking area reduces road walking. Parking capacity limits the field, so there is no race day registration; interested runners may join a waitlist and are likely to be added.
The route leaves the park and heads south through the Yale Myers Forest. At about 4 miles the trail crosses Barlow Mill Road at Two Pipes, continues roughly 4 more miles to a turnaround at Boston Hollow, then follows the same route back to the finish. Minimal aid will be provided at Two Pipes, Boston Hollow, and an intermediate location around mile 12. The course is blazed blue with some flagging at tricky spots. Navigation is the runner's responsibility and extra distance on the course is not charged.
The event was discontinued in 2012 and revived in 2022 with an effort to preserve an old school atmosphere. Proceeds after costs support local trail organizations; proceeds from the 2022 race primarily funded a new bridge at the north end of Breakneck Pond. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
