The course consists of rolling single track with two river crossings. There is a very short paved section through a parking area, but other than that, you will not touch pavement on this course. You will get 2000ft+ of vertical gain with a couple of healthy climbs. Some of the course is very technical and rocky, but there are other smooth and runnable sections. Variety is the name of the game on this course.
There are 3 areas of the course that involve out-and-backs. The first involves the climb to Valley Overlook, a stunning view overlooking the valley. There you will pick up a wrist band (50k athletes will end up with 2 wrist bands). You need to show us the wrist band at the finish line to get credited with a finish, but then the bands are yours to keep!
AID STATIONS
Aid stations will occur at approximately:
5.25 miles
8 miles
11.5 miles
16 miles
All aid stations will have Tailwind and Water as well as standard fair, both sweet and savory to keep you going. Everything at the aid stations will be real food, we will not have gels, etc. so if that is your preference make sure to carry them.
While many runners take on the 25K, the 50K has become more popular every year for those looking to go a little longer. The 50K consists of two loops of the 25K course, with the same aid stations available at the same points on each loop.
To officially complete the 50K, runners are required to pick up a wristband at the top of the Valley Overlook climb on each loop. You should finish the race with two wristbands.
We keep our cutoff policy fairly relaxed, but for safety and course timing, 50K runners must complete Loop 1 by 12:00 PM (noon) in order to begin their second loop. In other words, runners are allotted 5 hours per loop
The course is well marked with signs and arrows. Additionally, flagging is used to mark the course. Be sure to follow the facebook group http://www.facebook.com/groups/mdheatrace/ to see videos and tips for the river crossings!