TARC Winter Classic
Stoneham, United States • 6 Dec 2025
Event overview
The Trail Animals Running Club Winter Classic takes place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Middlesex Fells Reservation in Stoneham, Massachusetts. Distances offered are:
- 8 mile
- 32 mile
- 40 mile
Entry fee is $25 across all distances, with a youth discount available. The event typically sells out and the organizer maintains a no-refund, no-transfer policy. Volunteer opportunities are available to support bib pickup, aid stations, course direction, parking, and other race-day roles.
Course and logistics
The course uses loops of the white-blazed Skyline Trail. The trail surface includes roots, rocks, and notable elevation changes with frequent climbs and descents. Minimal additional course marking is provided, so participants are advised to review course maps and GPX files beforehand. The route is on open, public trails; no trekking poles, snowshoes, or dogs are allowed.
There are two aid stations per 8-mile loop: one at the start/finish and one roughly halfway (3.5 miles counterclockwise or 4.5 miles clockwise). This is a cupless race; participants must carry their own hydration system. Portable restrooms and compost bins will be available at the start/finish aid station.
Parking is at Hall Memorial Pool & Splash Pad, 4 N Border Road, a 0.5 mile walk to the start/finish. Overflow parking will be on Fallon Road. Pacers are allowed only for 32M and 40M participants during the final 8-mile loop, and crew access is restricted to the start/finish area.
Cutoffs and safety
Participants in the 32M and 40M must start their final 8-mile loop by 2:00 p.m. A headlamp is required if starting the last loop within 30 minutes of that cutoff. Course closure is enforced for participant safety.
Course records
Current course records by category (time, year): Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- 8M male: 55:53 (2023)
- 8M female: 1:32:17 (2023)
- 8M nonbinary: 1:47:02 (2023)
- 32M male: 4:09:53 (2018)
- 32M female: 5:50:20 (2018)
- 32M nonbinary: To be determined
- 40M male: 5:29:48 (2018)
- 40M female: 7:11:54 (2018)
- 40M nonbinary: To be determined