Marathon Monk Ultra
Efland, United States • 5-7 Jun 2026
Marathon Monk Ultra, Hillsborough, NC
The event takes place June 5 to 7, 2026 at Sky Maple Farm near 2719 NC-57 in Hillsborough, North Carolina. It is presented as a small ultramarathon gathering with multiple distance options.
Distances offered include:
- 108 Miles
- 81 Miles
- 54 Miles
- Marathon
The gathering features a Marathon Monk from Japan who completed the Kaihogyo, a thousand-day walking meditation practiced by Tendai Buddhist monks on Mt. Hiei. The Kaihogyo tradition involves long-term walking meditation over seven years and extensive mileage.
A central element is a one-mile forest loop where participants may run or walk alongside the Marathon Monk at their own rhythm, without clocks or competition. Participants receive a mala bead for every lap completed so distance can be tracked without clocks or cell phones.
When not on the loop, the program includes contemplative practices across the farm. Offerings listed for the event include floating sound baths, sunset yoga, binaural meditations, and equine-assisted meditation. Evenings feature a vegetarian farm to table dinner and sessions of teachings, meditation, and open dialogue with the Ajari-sama. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.