About This Race
Set in the mountains of Tioga State Forest near Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon, the Green Monster Trail Challenge lives up to its name with a reputation for testing even experienced trail runners. This multi-distance event offers 15K, 25K, and 50K options, all sharing the same challenging terrain that has built a devoted following over more than a decade. The race organizers, the Tyoga Running Club, are refreshingly straightforward about what awaits: rolling singletrack, steep climbs, numerous stream crossings, and technical descents that demand both fitness and focus. With a capacity limited to 350 participants and a history of selling out before registration closes, the Green Monster has cultivated an intimate atmosphere where runners of varying abilities can choose their level of suffering. The course design emphasizes the natural beauty and difficulty of the region, making it as much about the experience as the finish time. The race's no-nonsense approach extends to logistics, with clear cutoff times for the 50K and a firm no-refund policy that keeps things simple.
The course winds through the mountainous terrain of Tioga State Forest, featuring rolling singletrack trails punctuated by demanding climbs and technical descents. Runners navigate multiple stream crossings throughout the route, adding both challenge and scenic variety. The terrain showcases the natural beauty of the area near Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon while testing runners with elevation changes and technical sections that require careful footing.
Practical Info
Mid-October in Pennsylvania typically brings cool temperatures with potential for variable conditions ranging from crisp autumn weather to possible rain or early frost.
ELM - Elmira/Corning Regional Airport
Wellsboro is a small town with limited lodging options, so early booking is recommended given the race's popularity.
Best For
Notable Features
The Green Monster stands out for its intimate field size, multi-distance format allowing runners to choose their challenge level, and location in the scenic Tioga State Forest near Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon. The race has maintained consistent popularity for over a decade, often selling out before registration closes, creating a tight-knit community atmosphere where the focus remains on the pure challenge of the terrain rather than commercial polish.