Tortoise & Hare Trail Race

Tortoise & Hare Trail Race

The Tortoise & Hare Trail Race is a trail running event held entirely within Buttermilk Falls State Park near Ithaca, New York. The main course is a 10K plus route (roughly 6.5 miles) that uses a mix of meadow paths, service roads, and singletrack. Terrain includes an easy meadow loop, a semi-technical Bear Trail, rolling paths around Treman Lake, and one long steep climb that gains about 450 feet in under a mile followed by a long downhill to the finish.

Distances:

• 10K plus roughly 6.5 miles
• 1 mile kids fun run, non-competitive and untimed

Online registration is required; the 10K entry fee is $20 with a $5 discount for club members, and runners 18 and under may register free. A coupon code is available to waive the entry fee for those with financial need. There is no in-person race day registration.

Facilities and logistics include park vehicle entrance fees or an Empire Pass for parking, nearby paid and a free parking option less than half a mile away, restrooms and a bathhouse with cold showers, and post-race water and food for participants. Results are posted through race timing services and the club. The event is part of the FLRC Trail Circuit and awards top finishers in multiple age categories, plus top non-binary finishers regardless of age.

Course hazards include uneven footing, mud, fallen logs, insects, and vehicle crossings. The event prohibits dogs, headphones, and jogging strollers and may be modified or canceled for hazardous conditions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.