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Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge

Name: Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge
Start: 2026-12-12
End: 2026-12-12
Location: Melrose

Melrose, United States • 12 Dec 2026

The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge

The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge returns for its 20th edition at the Mount Hood Golf Club in Melrose, Massachusetts. This December event features a cross-country course over hilly terrain within the Greater Boston area. A notable characteristic of the race is that the course layout changes every year, providing a different experience for returning participants.

Participants can choose between two main options:

3.5 Miles: A competitive cross-country run for individuals and teams.
2 Miles: A non-competitive walk.

The event is hosted at the Melrose Fish & Game Club, located approximately 0.2 miles from the starting line. Due to parking arrangements being situated closer to the main clubhouse, participants can expect a short walk or jog to reach the venue. The race has a participation limit of 250 entrants.

Amenities include a post-race pasta lunch provided by the Melrose Fish & Game Club and a cash bar. Awards, specifically nutcracker figurines, are presented to the top three overall male and female finishers, the top three in various age divisions ranging from 19-under to 70-over, and the top three teams in each division. The event supports local beneficiaries, including Housing Families, Inc. and the Melrose High School cross-country teams. Please note that strollers are not permitted on the course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

United States Massachusetts Melrose

Race information

Registration

4 mi

3.5 Mile Xc Run

2 Mile Walk

Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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