About This Race
The Beebe Farm 48 stands as one of the most runner-friendly ultra events in the Northeast, offering a rare opportunity to tackle serious distance on a forgiving surface. Held at the Harold Beebe Farm in East Dorset, Vermont, this USATF-certified and IAU Bronze Label event takes place during peak fall foliage season in a narrow valley between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Range. The race's defining characteristic is its fast 0.87-mile loop with minimal elevation change—just 23 feet per lap—making it ideal for runners seeking personal records or attempting their first ultra distance. The course surface of packed dirt and limestone provides excellent footing without the punishment typically associated with road ultras. With a generous 18-foot width along most sections and no sharp turns or significant climbs, runners can settle into a sustainable rhythm and focus on pacing rather than technical navigation. What sets Beebe Farm apart is the combination of accessibility and serious distance options. The private facility offers ample space for camping and crew support, while the loop format allows for easy monitoring of progress and aid station access. Night running requires headlamps, but the course features both active and reflective markings to help runners maintain optimal lines throughout the darkness. The September timing typically brings cool temperatures with highs around 64°F and lows near 39°F, creating ideal conditions for sustained effort.
The 0.87-mile loop at Beebe Farm runs on packed dirt and limestone surfacing that's been specifically designed for ultra running. The track maintains a minimum width of 8 feet at the narrowest point (east bridge) and expands to over 18 feet along most sections. With only 23 feet of elevation gain per lap, the course avoids the sharp climbs and descents that can break up rhythm in traditional trail ultras.
The surface strikes an ideal balance—soft enough to reduce impact stress but firm enough to maintain speed. The limestone surfacing on the lower half provides particularly smooth footing. The course is located on a completely private facility with no road crossings or traffic concerns. Night runners will need headlamps, as the course is not lit, but reflective and active markings help maintain proper lines during dark hours.
Practical Info
September conditions typically feature highs around 64°F and lows near 39°F, with potential for significant temperature swings requiring layering strategies.
On-site camping available with plenty of space for tents and RVs (no hookups). RVs over 20 feet must arrive by Friday and stay until Sunday 9AM.
- headlamp
Best For
Notable Features
The Beebe Farm 48 offers one of the fastest ultra courses in New England, with its USATF-certified loop providing consistent pacing opportunities and spectacular fall foliage views. The private facility allows for extensive camping and crew support, while the limestone and dirt surface delivers the comfort of trail running without technical challenges. As an IAU Bronze Label event, it attracts both competitive runners seeking qualifying times and recreational ultrarunners looking for a more forgiving introduction to the distance.