TARC Winter Classic

Event overview

The TARC Winter Classic is a trail running event on Saturday, December 6, 2025, in Stoneham, Massachusetts. Distances offered are:

• 8 mile
• 32 mile
• 40 mile

The event sells out and the organizer states there are no refunds, no transfers, and no deferrals. Volunteer opportunities are part of the event operations.

Course and logistics

The course uses loops of the white-blazed Skyline Trail in the DCR Middlesex Fells Reservation. The trail includes roots, rocks, frequent climbs and descents, and wooded New England scenery with views of the Boston skyline. The start/finish area is on Fallon Road. Parking is at Hall Memorial Pool & Splash Pad, 4 N Border Road, a 0.5 mile walk from the start/finish; overflow parking will be on Fallon Road with volunteer direction. A specific driving note: from I-93 southbound use Exit 35; there is no northbound exit.

Course marking follows the trail white blazes with minimal additional markings. Participants are expected to review course maps and the GPX file and to backtrack if they go off course; GPS files may be reviewed and failure to follow the marked course can affect official results.

Aid stations, gear and cutoffs

There is an aid station at the start/finish and one approximately halfway through the 8 mile loop (about 3.5 miles counterclockwise or 4.5 miles clockwise). The race is cupless, so participants must bring their own hydration system. Portable restrooms and menstrual products will be available at aid stations. Participants in the 32 and 40 mile races must start their final 8 mile loop by the published cutoff. A headlamp is required if a participant begins their last loop close to that cutoff. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.