TARC Winter Classic
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Event
The TARC Winter Classic takes place Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Middlesex Fells Reservation in Stoneham, Massachusetts. Distances offered are:
- 8 mile
- 32 mile
- 40 mile
Entry fee is $25 across all distances. There is a discounted youth entry ($10 off) for participants 19 years old or under. Online registration closes before race week, there is no race‑day registration, and the event typically sells out. The event has a no refund and no transfer policy; a pregnancy deferral program allows deferral for up to two years with advance notice.
Course and logistics
The course uses loops of the white‑blazed Skyline Trail. Runners should expect roots, rocks, frequent climbs and descents, forest terrain, and occasional views of the Boston skyline. The start/finish area is on Fallon Road; official parking is at Hall Memorial Pool & Splash Pad (4 N Border Road), a 0.5 mile walk from the start/finish. The trail is open to the public; runners must yield to hikers, walkers, and bikers.
Support, rules, and safety
The course is marked only with white blazes; participants are encouraged to review maps and download the GPX file. If a runner goes off course they must backtrack; GPS reviews may be used and failing to follow the marked course can affect official results. Aid stations: one at the start/finish and one about halfway around the 8 mile loop. This is a cupless race; bring personal hydration. Some aid station items include hydration, bananas, pickles, snacks, quesadillas, and soup. Restrictions include no trekking poles, no snowshoes, and no dogs. Pacers are allowed only on the final 8 mile loop for the 32M and 40M; crew access is limited to the start/finish area. Adaptive athletes are welcome with course capability and possible approvals for equipment. The event follows Leave No Trace principles. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.