Established in 1977 - MOUNTAIN GOATS ONLY.

There are qualification standards - see below for details.



THE TRAIL is viewed by many as an exaggeration of the term.

It is extremely rocky and a runner must expect to navigate over boulders, downed trees, gullies and hidden roots the entire distance. Contestants must be prepared to deal with any of the forest's natural barriers, such as bees, slippery rocks, porcupines, black bears (not probable, but possible) and anything else that can be found in the forests of the Catskills. There are numerous places where runners must climb hand over fist to scale a rise, conversely, extremely steep downhill sections add not only challenge to the course, but also a high degree of unwelcome danger. There are sections of the course that travel along cliffs. If you're not careful, you could fall to your death. Very few runners go the distance without taking at least one painful spill. Most runners take many. Believe me, you're going to take a flop or two, or more. Bees!!! In 1987, we ran into lots of them. If you are allergic to bee stings, you MUST run with your own medication.

THIS IS NOT A CARRIAGE TRAIL it is a treacherous hiking trail.

There won't be a vehicle to fetch you if you if you should decide to quit and it is your responsibility to get to the finish line. This is not a Run-For-All and we are not trying to hype it or make it something it is not. There won't be people telling you where the trail goes, doctors to wipe your blisters, or a bus to give you a ride to the finish if you decide you can't continue. This is a wonderful run across wonderful country, a run in which we will share the experience and the friendship with those qualified runners who choose to participate. No awards, no age group categories. Just runners, mountains, and some refreshments at the finish line.

THE CREATOR Dick Vincent.

The trail was his playground, a place upon which he and friends shared many runs. In 1977, Dick made it an event and has brought it forward since. He also provides The trail was his playground, a place upon which he and friends shared many runs. In 1977, Dick made it an event and has brought it forward since. He also provides coaching services