Kismet Cliff Run

Kismet Cliff Run - North Conway, New Hampshire

The Kismet Cliff Run takes place in Echo Lake State Park near North Conway. The event on September 13, 2026, offers two trail race options:

• Beast of the East - Half Marathon
• Little Beast - 5 Miler

The Little Beast follows Cathedral and Whitehorse Ledges, starting on twisting double track that becomes steep, technical single track with two significant ascents and rocky descents through Conway granite. The half-marathon follows the Little Beast route and adds a loop over North Moat Mountain via the granite Red Ridge, including about 2,000 feet of climb on that loop and more than 4,300 feet of total vertical gain. Parts of the course are exposed to weather.

Aid stations are placed at 2.1 miles (only aid for 5 milers) and 4.1 miles; there is a water-only station near mile 9.9. There are no formal cutoff times, and course extraction options are limited in remote sections. Trekking poles are allowed only for half-marathon runners and must not be used until after the 4.1 mile aid station. If a half-marathon participant stops at the 5-mile turn, they will be marked DNF. Dogs are not allowed in the state park.

The event is included in the 2026 Skyrunner USA Series and lists Merrell as a presenting sponsor. A GPX file is provided by the organizer. Registration closes September 12, 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.