The Mountain Goat Trail Race

Welcome to the Mountain Goat Trail Race!

• Date: September 20th, 2026
• Location: Merck Forest and Farmland Center, 3270 VT-315, Rupert, VT
• Start Time: 8:30 am
• Course: 8.5 mile loop with approximately 1,800 ft of climbing

Race Description:

• Start Line: Begins at the Sap House
• Climb: Up to the summit of Mt Antone
• Route: Continue down Masters Mtn Trail to Hidden Valley Road junction
• Finish: Back down to the farm and finish at the Sap House

Aid Stations:

• Locations: At the Glen and the junction of Masters Mtn Trail and Hidden Valley Road
• Offerings: Light snacks, fruit, and hydration (Skratch & water)
• Bibs: Runners must have bibs clearly visible
• Kids Run: A fun ~0.75 mile loop surrounding the farm

Packet Pick-Up:

• Friday: Available from 11am-6pm at the Mountain Goat in Manchester
• Race Day: From 7:45am-8:15am at the start line near the Sap House

Parking:

• Location: Main lot at Merck Forest
• Distance: Approximately ¼ mile walk to the Sap House

Bathrooms:

• Location: Visitor center near parking
• Options: Primitive bathrooms near the Sap House and start line

Dogs:

• Policy: Dogs are not allowed on the race course
• Reason: To ensure the safety of runners and respect community members

Maps & Courses:

• Updates: GAIA and STRAVA maps will be available soon
• Gaia Map: Here
• Strava Map: Here

See you there!

-Mountain Goat & Merck Forest and Farmland Center

For more information, visit The Mountain Goat Trail Race.