About This Race
The Nanny Goat Trail Race stands as one of ultrarunning's most welcoming family affairs, hosted on a private horse ranch in Turner, Maine. Now in its 17th year, this Memorial Day weekend fixture offers an unusual format: runners choose from six time-based distances (3, 6, 12, or 24 hours, plus 100-mile and relay options) on a flat, one-mile loop course of mostly dirt and grass. What sets Nanny Goat apart is its intimate, homegrown character. Race director Shelli Sexton and her family open their property not just for the race but for a complete weekend experience, with free camping from Thursday through Monday morning. The course design ensures support is never more than half a mile away, making this an ideal choice for runners attempting their first ultra or those seeking a controlled environment for time or distance goals. The race's accessibility extends beyond the flat terrain. Families and crews are genuinely welcomed, with amenities including swimming and ample space for children to play. Every finisher who completes at least one lap receives a medal, while 100-mile finishers earn coveted buckles—special editions for sub-24-hour performances. The race director has indicated that 2026 and 2027 may be the final years at the current location, adding poignancy to this grassroots gathering.
The Nanny Goat course consists of a simple one-mile loop on the Sexton family's private horse ranch. The terrain is predominantly flat dirt and grass with good footing throughout, designed to be wide enough for easy passing. The loop format means runners are never more than half a mile from the start/finish area, providing constant access to support and crew.
The straightforward nature of the course removes technical challenges and navigation concerns, allowing runners to focus purely on time and distance goals. This makes it particularly suitable for runners new to ultrarunning or those using the race as a testing ground for pacing and nutrition strategies.
Practical Info
Late May in Maine typically offers mild temperatures with potential for variable conditions including rain
Free camping available on-site from Thursday morning through Monday morning. RV, tent, and trailer camping welcomed.
Best For
Notable Features
The Nanny Goat experience extends far beyond the running itself. This is one of the few races that truly embraces the concept of a weekend gathering, with free camping available from Thursday through Monday morning. The private ranch setting provides a rare intimacy in ultrarunning, where the race director's family personally hosts every participant. Swimming is available for post-run recovery, and the environment genuinely welcomes families and children, creating a community atmosphere that many find as memorable as the running itself.