Race for the Refuge

Race for the Refuge

The Race for the Refuge takes place at the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge in Sudbury- Massachusetts. Organized by the Highland City Striders- this trail event utilizes a loop course that starts and finishes at the ARNWR Visitor’s Center. Participants run through a landscape of freshwater wetlands- pine and oak forests- and historical sites including former military bunkers from the Sudbury Training Annex.

The course consists of double-track trails made of hard-packed earth and gravel. It is designed to be accessible for those new to trail running while offering a fast surface for experienced athletes. This is a cupless event focused on environmental conservation- and participants are expected to adhere to a leave-no-trace policy. Littering within the delicate ecosystem is grounds for disqualification.

The following distances and categories are available:

• 10K Trail Race
• 30K Trail Race
• 6-Hour Trail Race
• Pacer for 6-hour Race

The 10K consists of a single loop- while the 30K requires three loops. Participants in the 6-hour event may complete as many loops as they choose within the time limit. For the timed race- the final loop must begin before 2:00 PM and finish before 3:00 PM to be recorded.

Two aid stations provide water- hydration mix- and various snacks. One station is located at the start/finish area and another is positioned approximately halfway through the loop. Prizes are awarded to the top male- female- and nonbinary finishers in each event. Proceeds are used for nature education- trail improvements- and local charities. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.