Tower Tag Challenge
Hamden, United States • 5 Dec 2026
Trail Running at Sleeping Giant State Park
The Tower Tag Challenge takes place at Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, Connecticut. This event focuses on the Tower Trail, a path that ascends from near the park entrance to an Observation Tower. The course consists of a 3.3 mile out and back loop that participants repeat within a set timeframe.
Participants choose between two primary options:
- 8 Hour
- 4 Hour
The route starts at the park pavilion and follows a short paved section before transitioning onto the Tower Trail. This trail is a winding carriage road composed of crushed gravel. Each loop involves an ascent of over 600 feet over 1.5 miles to reach the summit of Mount Carmel. Once reaching the Observation Tower, runners travel counter-clockwise around the structure and descend back the same way to the pavilion.
The event follows a cupless policy to reduce waste, meaning runners must carry their own hydration vests, bottles, or reusable cups. An aid station at the start and finish area provides water, electrolyte drinks, and various food items such as potato chips, pretzels, and candy. Only laps completed within the four or eight-hour time limits are counted toward a participant's total. The top three male and female finishers in each category receive awards, and all participants receive a finisher medal and swag from event sponsors. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.