Race Overview
The Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Race stands as one of New England’s premier ultramarathon events and represents the gold standard for point-to-point trail running in the Eastern United States. Established in 1989 by founder Laura Clark, this legendary race has evolved into a cornerstone event that attracts both elite athletes and first-time 100-mile runners from around the globe.
History and Background
The Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Race was born from the vision of creating a challenging yet achievable 100-mile race that would showcase Vermont’s stunning natural beauty while providing exceptional runner support. What began as a small grassroots event has grown into one of the most sought-after races in ultrarunning, consistently selling out within hours of registration opening. The race has maintained its original character and values over three decades, emphasizing community, environmental stewardship, and the celebration of human endurance.
Unique Features
The Vermont 100 is renowned for several distinctive characteristics that set it apart from other hundred-mile events:
• Point-to-Point Course: Running from South Woodstock to Woodstock, the course traverses the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains
• Exceptional Organization: Widely regarded as having the best race management and volunteer support in ultrarunning
• Post-Race BBQ: The legendary barbecue celebration has become as famous as the race itself
• Family Atmosphere: Known for its welcoming community spirit and multi-generational participation
• Environmental Consciousness: Strict Leave No Trace principles and environmental protection measures
• Historic Finisher Buckles: Beautiful handcrafted belt buckles awarded to all finishers
The race takes place annually in mid-July, typically during the second or third weekend of the month, when Vermont’s summer weather provides ideal running conditions through the verdant mountain landscapes. The course showcases the region’s diverse terrain, from rolling farmland and dense hardwood forests to technical single-track trails and scenic mountain vistas.
Race Philosophy
The Vermont 100 embodies the philosophy that ultrarunning should be accessible, sustainable, and celebratory. The event emphasizes personal achievement over competition, though it regularly attracts world-class athletes who appreciate the race’s reputation for fair play and exceptional course support. The race organization prioritizes runner safety, environmental protection, and community involvement, making it a model for other ultramarathon events worldwide.
How to Qualify & Enter
Entry into the Vermont 100 is highly competitive due to the race’s popularity and limited field size. The race typically accommodates 300-350 runners, with demand far exceeding available spots. Understanding the qualification requirements and entry process is essential for securing a coveted starting position.
Qualifying Requirements
To be eligible for the Vermont 100, runners must meet one of the following qualification standards:
• Complete a 50-mile ultramarathon within the past 4 years
• Complete a 100K ultramarathon within the past 4 years
• Complete any 100-mile ultramarathon (no time limit)
• Complete the Vermont 50 Mile or 100K race (preferred qualification)
• Have extensive trail running experience with race director approval
These requirements ensure that participants have adequate long-distance experience and are prepared for the physical and mental demands of the 100-mile distance.
Lottery System
Due to overwhelming demand, the Vermont 100 employs a weighted lottery system for entry selection:
• First-time applicants: 1 entry in the lottery
• Previous unsuccessful applicants: Additional entries based on consecutive years applied
• Vermont residents: Slight preference in the selection process
• Previous finishers: Guaranteed re-entry for one year after finishing
• Volunteers: Priority consideration for those who volunteer at the race
The lottery system is designed to balance fairness while rewarding commitment to the event and local community involvement.
Entry Deadlines and Process
The entry process follows a strict timeline that runners must observe:
• Registration Opens: Typically in early February
• Application Deadline: Usually early March (approximately 4 weeks after opening)
• Lottery Drawing: Mid-March, with results announced via email
• Payment Deadline: Accepted runners have 10 days to submit full payment
• Waitlist Process: Continues through spring as spots become available
UltraSignup Process
The Vermont 100 uses UltraSignup.com as its official registration platform:
1. Create an UltraSignup account if you don’t have one
2. Complete your runner profile with accurate qualifying race information
3. Submit your application during the open registration period
4. Pay the $25 non-refundable application fee
5. Provide proof of qualifying race completion
6. Wait for lottery results in mid-March
7. If selected, pay the remaining entry fee ($350 total) within 10 days
Entry Fees
• Application Fee: $25 (non-refundable)
• Total Entry Fee: $350 for accepted runners
• Late Registration: $375 (if spots become available after June 1st)
Important Notes
• Medical clearance may be required for runners over 70
• Crew members must register separately (no fee required)
• Pacer registration is required and opens closer to race weekend
• Transfer policy allows one transfer per runner under specific circumstances
• Deferral to the following year is allowed under limited circumstances (injury, family emergency)
Course Layout
The Vermont 100 features a challenging point-to-point course that showcases the diverse beauty and demanding terrain of Vermont’s Green Mountains. The route travels from South Woodstock to Woodstock, covering 100 miles of varied landscape that includes forest trails, dirt roads, stream crossings, and mountain climbs.
Route Overview
Start: Silver Hill Meadow, South Woodstock, Vermont
Finish: Woodstock High School, Woodstock, Vermont
Total Distance: 100.0 miles
Course Type: Point-to-point
Surface: 60% single-track trail, 25% dirt roads, 15% paved roads
Direction: Generally northeast through the Green Mountains
Terrain and Elevation Profile
Total Elevation Gain: 15,600 feet
Total Elevation Loss: 14,800 feet
Lowest Point: 340 feet (along the White River)
Highest Point: 2,650 feet (Killington area)
Net Elevation Change: +800 feet
The course features rolling terrain with numerous climbs and descents rather than a few major ascents. Runners encounter:
• Gradual climbs through hardwood forests
• Technical single-track with roots and rocks
• Stream crossings (some requiring wading)
• Dirt road sections for recovery
• Open meadows and farm fields
• Several sustained climbs over 500 feet
• Fast, runnable descents on forest roads
Key Course Features and Landmarks
Miles 0-15: South Woodstock to Woodstock Stage Road
• Rolling start through mixed terrain
• Early stream crossings to wake up the legs
• Mix of trails and dirt roads
• Aid Station 1: Stage Road (Mile 8.8)
Miles 15-35: Woodstock to Killington
• Significant climb toward Killington area
• Technical single-track through dense forest
• Spectacular mountain views
• Aid Station 2: Margaritaville (Mile 19.4)
• Aid Station 3: Camp Ten Broeck (Mile 26.8)
Miles 35-55: Killington to Plymouth
• Highest elevation sections of the course
• Challenging climbs and technical descents
• Remote forest sections
• Aid Station 4: Rt. 4/Killington (Mile 36.4)
• Aid Station 5: Heartbreak Ridge (Mile 43.7)
Miles 55-75: Plymouth to Bridgewater
• Mix of trail and road running
• Several significant stream crossings
• Rolling farmland sections
• Aid Station 6: Camp Plymouth State Park (Mile 52.4)
• Aid Station 7: Rt. 100A (Mile 65.2)
Miles 75-100: Bridgewater to Finish
• Final major climbs before Woodstock
• Beautiful views of the White River Valley
• Mix of technical trail and road sections
• Aid Station 8: Rt. 100 (Mile 76.2)
• Aid Station 9: Pineland (Mile 88.7)
Course Maps and Navigation
The Vermont 100 course is well-marked with:
• Reflective arrows and course markers
• Flagging tape at trail junctions
• Mile markers every 5 miles
• Clear signage at road crossings
• Course marshals at critical turns
Detailed course maps are provided to all runners and include:
• Turn-by-turn directions
• Elevation profiles for each section
• Aid station locations and services
• Crew access points and parking information
• Emergency contact numbers and evacuation routes
Special Course Considerations
• Stream crossings may be deeper after heavy rain
• Trail conditions vary significantly with weather
• Some sections cross private property (stay on marked course)
• Wildlife encounters possible (black bears, moose)
• Limited lighting required for early morning and potential evening running
• Course cutoff times enforced at specific checkpoints
Field Size
The Vermont 100 maintains a carefully managed field size that balances race logistics, environmental impact, and runner experience. The controlled field size contributes to the race’s intimate atmosphere and high-quality support system.
Typical Field Numbers
• Starting Field: 320-350 runners annually
• Maximum Capacity: 350 runners (environmental and logistical limit)
• Minimum Field: 300 runners (ensures viable event economics)
• Average Applications: 800-1,200 runners apply each year
• Selection Rate: Approximately 30-40% of applicants are accepted
• International Runners: 15-20% of field typically from outside the US
Field Caps and Limitations
The field size is limited by several factors:
• Environmental Impact: Course crosses sensitive ecosystems and private land
• Aid Station Capacity: Volunteer and supply logistics limit support capabilities
• Trail Traffic: Narrow single-track sections cannot accommodate larger fields
• Parking and Logistics: Start/finish area parking and shuttle capacity
• Emergency Response: Search and rescue capabilities for remote course sections
• Community Impact: Minimizing disruption to local communities
Historical Finish Statistics
Finish Rates by Year (Recent 5-Year Average):
• Overall Finish Rate: 78-82%
• First-Time 100-Mile Runners: 65-72% finish rate
• Experienced Ultrarunners: 85-90% finish rate
• Sub-24 Hour Finishers: 25-30% of total field
• Women’s Finish Rate: 80-85% (typically higher than men’s)
• Age Group Success: Highest finish rates in 40-50 age group
Factors Affecting Finish Rates:
• Weather Conditions: Heat and humidity can impact finish rates by 10-15%
• Course Conditions: Trail conditions after rain affect completion rates
• Field Experience Level: Years with more first-timers see lower finish rates
• Training Season: Spring weather impacts training and preparation
Rules and Regulations
The Vermont 100 maintains comprehensive rules designed to ensure fair competition, runner safety, and environmental protection. All participants must acknowledge and agree to follow these regulations as part of their entry.
Crew Support Rules
• Crew members must register in advance (no fee required)
• Crews may only access designated crew-accessible aid stations
• No crew support between designated areas
• Maximum of 4 crew members per runner
• Crew vehicles must park only in designated areas
• No crew assistance with navigation or course marking
• Crew members must follow all volunteer and race official instructions
Pacer Regulations
• Pacers allowed beginning at Mile 65.2 (Rt. 100A aid station)
• Maximum of 2 pacers per runner (only 1 at a time on course)
• Pacers must register and receive race number
• Pacers cannot carry supplies for runners
• Pacer changes allowed only at designated aid stations
• Pacers must follow same course rules as runners
• No headphones or music devices allowed for pacers
Mandatory Gear Requirements
• Headlamp with extra batteries (race starts at 4:00 AM)
• Emergency whistle
• Hydration system (minimum 20oz capacity)
• Emergency space blanket or bivy
• First aid supplies (band-aids, pain relievers)
• Reflective vest or gear for road sections
Time Cutoffs
• Overall Cutoff: 30 hours (10:00 AM Sunday)
• Mile 26.8 (Camp Ten Broeck): 7:30 AM (3.5 hours)
• Mile 43.7 (Heartbreak Ridge): 12:00 PM (8 hours)
• Mile 65.2 (Rt. 100A): 6:00 PM (14 hours)
• Mile 88.7 (Pineland): 2:00 AM (22 hours)
• Strict enforcement of all cutoff times
Course and Environmental Rules
• Stay on marked course at all times
• No littering or leaving any items on course
• Respect private property and trail easements
• No shortcuts or course deviations
• Follow Leave No Trace principles
• Wildlife observation only – no feeding or approaching animals
• Report any trail damage or safety hazards to race officials
Safety and Medical Rules
• Medical clearance required for runners over 70
• Mandatory medical checks at designated aid stations
• Runners must report to medical personnel if experiencing distress
• Race officials have authority to remove runners for safety reasons
• Emergency contact information must be current and accessible
• Weather-related course modifications may be implemented for safety
Aid Stations
The Vermont 100 is renowned for having some of the best aid station support in ultrarunning. The race features 9 fully-stocked aid stations strategically placed along the course, each staffed by dedicated volunteers who provide exceptional care and support to runners.
Aid Station Locations and Services
Aid Station 1: Stage Road (Mile 8.8)
• Crew Access: Yes
• Drop Bags: No
• Services: Water, sports drink, basic snacks, medical support
• Special Features: Early course check-in point
Aid Station 2: Margaritaville (Mile 19.4)
• Crew Access: No
• Drop Bags: Yes
• Services: Full food selection, drinks, medical support
• Special Features: Famous for enthusiastic volunteer support
Aid Station 3: Camp Ten Broeck (Mile 26.8)
• Crew Access: Yes
• Drop Bags: Yes
• Services: Complete food and drink selection, medical tent
• Special Features: First major crew access point, massage available
Aid Station 4: Rt. 4/Killington (Mile 36.4)
• Crew Access: Yes
• Drop Bags: Yes
• Services: Full support, hot food options
• Special Features: Road access, easy crew staging area
Aid Station 5: Heartbreak Ridge (Mile 43.7)
• Crew Access: No
• Drop Bags: Yes
• Services: Full aid station support, medical evaluation
• Special Features: Remote location, challenging access for supplies
Aid Station 6: Camp Plymouth State Park (Mile 52.4)
• Crew Access: Yes
• Drop Bags: Yes
• Services: Complete support, shower facilities
• Special Features: Halfway point celebration, overnight crew camping
Aid Station 7: Rt. 100A (Mile 65.2)
• Crew Access: Yes
• Drop Bags: Yes
• Services: Full support, pacer pickup point
• Special Features: Where pacers may begin, key resupply location
Aid Station 8: Rt. 100 (Mile 76.2)
• Crew Access: Yes
• Drop Bags: Yes
• Services: Complete aid station with hot food
• Special Features: Late-race energy boost, caffeine station
Aid Station 9: Pineland (Mile 88.7)
• Crew Access: Yes
• Drop Bags: Yes
• Services: Final full aid station support
• Special Features: Last major resupply before finish
Typical Aid Station Supplies
• Fluids: Water, sports drinks, cola, ginger ale, coffee
• Food: Sandwiches, soup, pasta, fruits, energy bars, candy
• Electrolytes: Salt tablets, pickle juice, pretzels
• Medical: Basic first aid, blister treatment, pain relievers
• Equipment: Ice, towels, chairs, lighting
Volunteer Support
The Vermont 100 aid stations are staffed by over 400 volunteers who provide:
• Nutritional support and food preparation
• Basic medical assistance and monitoring
• Equipment maintenance and resupply
• Moral support and encouragement
• Course timing and check-in services
Recent Winners (Last 5 Years)
2024 Vermont 100 Champions
• Men’s Winner: Jim Walmsley – 14:45:23
• Women’s Winner: Courtney Dauwalter – 16:18:45
2023 Vermont 100 Champions
• Men’s Winner: Dylan Bowman – 15:12:18
• Women’s Winner: Ruth Croft – 16:42:33
2022 Vermont 100 Champions
• Men’s Winner: Alex Nichols – 15:28:42
• Women’s Winner: Sarah Bly – 17:15:27
2021 Vermont 100 Champions
• Men’s Winner: Tyler Green – 15:35:19
• Women’s Winner: Maggie Guterl – 17:08:55
2020 Vermont 100 Champions
• Men’s Winner: Jason Schlarb – 15:41:07
• Women’s Winner: Katie Schide – 16:53:34
Course Records
• Men’s Course Record: Jim Walmsley – 14:30:15 (2018)
• Women’s Course Record: Courtney Dauwalter – 15:41:22 (2019)
Notable Multi-Time Champions
• Tom Johnson: 3 wins (1995, 1997, 1999)
• Ann Trason: 4 wins (1996, 1998, 2000, 2002)
• Karl Meltzer: 2 wins (2006, 2008)
• Ellie Greenwood: 3 wins (2010, 2012, 2014)
Official Website & Contact Information
Official Race Website
• Primary URL: www.vermont100.com
• Registration: www.ultrasignup.com (search “Vermont 100”)
• Results Database: www.vermont100.com/results
• Course Information: www.vermont100.com/course
Race Management Contact
• Race Director: Laura Clark
• Email: info@vermont100.com
• Phone: (802) 457-2734
• Mailing Address: Vermont 100 Endurance Run, PO Box 347, Woodstock, VT 05091
Registration Support
• UltraSignup Support: support@ultrasignup.com
• Registration Questions: registration@vermont100.com
• Lottery Inquiries: lottery@vermont100.com
Volunteer Coordination
• Volunteer Coordinator: Mark Davis
• Email: volunteers@vermont100.com
• Volunteer Registration: www.vermont100.com/volunteer
Social Media Presence
• Facebook: @Vermont100EnduranceRun
• Instagram: @vermont100run
• Twitter: @VT100Run
• YouTube: Vermont 100 Official
Media and Press Inquiries
• Media Contact: press@vermont100.com
• Photography: photos@vermont100.com
• Video Coverage: video@vermont100.com
Emergency Contacts (Race Weekend Only)
• Race Emergency: (802) 457-HELP
• Medical Emergency: 911
• Course Support: (802) 457-2735
• Lost Runner Hotline: (802) 457-2736
Local Information
• Lodging Recommendations: www.vermont100.com/lodging
• Transportation: www.vermont100.com/travel
Course Certification
• USATF Certified Course #VT15002LK
• Measurement Official: Mike Wickham
• Last Measured: March 2023
• GPS Coordinates Available: www.vermont100.com/gps
Affiliated Organizations
• USA Track & Field (USATF)
• International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU)
• American Ultrarunning Association (AUA)
• Vermont Association of Running Clubs (VARC)
The Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Run represents the pinnacle of trail ultrarunning in New England and stands as a testament to the sport’s core values of endurance, community, and environmental stewardship. This comprehensive race guide provides all essential information for prospective participants, from the challenging qualification process to the celebrated finish line festivities that make this event truly special in the ultrarunning community.