The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge

The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge

We are looking forward to next year's 20th edition of the race - MHNC XX! We plan to have some special features associated with the event. As part of this, if anyone has some interesting displays of nutcrackers over the years which you don't mind sharing (by name or anonymously), please email photos to mhnc@melroserunningclub.com.

Race Overview

• Event Date: 2026-12-12
• Location: 100 Slayton Rd., Melrose, MA
• Race Type: 3.5-mile cross-country race
• Course: Changes every year

Race Details

The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge is excited to welcome runners and walkers again for this year's 20th round over the hilly Mount Hood Golf Club. This race features:

• Team Competition: Participants can compete individually or as a team.
• Challenging Course: Designed for an invigorating XC running experience.
• Festive Atmosphere: Many participants arrive dressed for the holiday season.
• Non-Competitive Walk: A 2-mile walk for those wanting a lighter option.

Race Start Time

12:00 pm for both the 3.5-mile XC race and 2-mile walk. The starting line this year is 0.2 miles from the Melrose Fish & Game Club.

Venue

The host venue is the Melrose Fish & Game Club. For directions:

• Location: Same as for the Mount Hood clubhouse.
• Route: Take the road to the left of the clubhouse (Stillman Rd.) and travel 1/3 mile further.
• Parking: Majority is closer to the clubhouse, expect a warm-up walk or jog.

Race Limit

250 entrants

XC Team Registration Procedure

See Teams Info page

Awards

• Overall Awards: Top 3 M&F overall
• Age Division Awards: Top 3 M&F in age divisions (19-under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-over)
• Team Awards: Top 3 teams in each division
• Walk: A non-competitive event.

Amenities

• Awards: Nutcracker figurines for winners
• Post-Race Meal: Melrose Fish & Game Club’s famous post-race pasta lunch
• Drinks: Cash bar available

Beneficiaries

Housing Families, Inc. and the Melrose HS XC teams.

Strollers

No strollers allowed

Race Day Registration Hours

10:00 – 11:30 am at the Melrose Fish & Game Club

Bib Pick-Up Location & Hours

• Friday, 12/11/26: 3 - 7 pm at Marathon Sports, 401 Main St., Melrose
• Race Day: 10:00 - 11:45 am, Melrose Fish & Game Club

More Information

For more details and to register, visit The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge page.