Tarc to Hale and Back

Event overview

The Trail Animals Running Club TARC To Hale and Back takes place at Hale Reservation, Powissett Lodge, Westwood, Massachusetts on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Race options include:

• 6 Hour
• 3.5 Mile

The event is organized by the Trail Animals Running Club, a nonprofit whose event profits are donated to land conservations and trusts. The race is held on land originally home to the Wôpanâak (Wampanoag) people.

Course and race logistics

The course is an approximate 3.5 mile loop of single track and double track "fire road" trails. It is mostly wooded, runs along a pond with short beach sections, and includes roots, rocks, small streams, modest hills, two crossings of Carby Street, and boardwalks/wood bridges that can be slippery when wet. The loop starts and finishes at Powissett Lodge and will be marked with flags, directional signs, arrows, and pink ribbons. The aid station at the start/finish provides water, an electrolyte drink, PB&J, and quesadillas or grilled cheese at minimum; additional participant-provided food appears during the 6 Hour event. This is a cupless event; participants should bring their own cup or bottle.

Entry, rules, and logistics

Online registration closes at the start of race week and the event typically sells out; a waitlist is used and open spots are automatically charged. The race maintains a no-refund policy and transfers or deferrals are not generally allowed; a pregnancy deferral option of up to two years is offered with advance notice. Pacers are not allowed; crew access is limited to the start/finish aid station. Adaptive athletes are welcome but must be able to run the course and may use tethers, guides, prosthetics, or approved assistive devices. Parking can be tight and may require up to about 0.75 mile walking from some lots. Volunteers are used for many race functions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.