Kismet Cliff Run

Kismet Cliff Run

Kismet Cliff Run is an annual mountain running event held each September in New Hampshire’s White Mountains with a base at Echo Lake State Park. The event offers two distances:

• Beast of the East - Half marathon with loop over North Moat Mountain.
• Little Beast - Five mile race on Cathedral and Whitehorse Ledges.

The Little Beast follows roller coaster trails that begin on twisting double track and move to steep, technical single track with two significant ascents and rocky descents across Conway granite. The half marathon uses the Little Beast course plus an additional loop that climbs roughly 2,000 feet to cross the granite Red Ridge and produces over 4,300 feet of total vertical gain. Runners are exposed on ridgelines and should be prepared for variable weather.

Aid stations are located at 2.1 miles and 4.1 miles; the 4.1 mile station is the last general aid point before a long dry stretch, and there is a water only station near mile 9.9. The 5 mile race has only the first aid station. Trekking poles are permitted only for half marathon runners and only after the 4.1 mile aid station. The organizers note there are no formal cutoff times and the course is remote.

Logistics note the event address as Echo Lake State Park. Entry fees are listed in event materials for each distance. A GPX file and course photos are provided by the organizers. Dogs are not allowed at the state park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.