Blood Root Ultra

Welcome to the Bloodroot Ultra, an epic endurance challenge set against the stunning backdrop of Vermont’s Green Mountains. Returning June 23–26, 2027, at Riverside Farm in Pittsfield, this Spartan Summer Farm Experience event is a tribute to Joe De Sena's original trail race concept and offers runners a unique opportunity to explore some of the most challenging terrain within the Green Mountain National Forest.
The Bloodroot Ultra spans multiple distances—10 miles, 50 kilometers, 50 miles, 100 miles, and an ambitious 200-mile route—that cater to athletes looking for everything from a grueling half-day challenge to a multi-day adventure. Each distance is designed to test your physical limits while immersing you in the rugged beauty of Vermont’s wilderness.
The race course features steep climbs, technical trails, and breathtaking views that make Bloodroot Ultra a true test of endurance. Participants will encounter challenging terrain throughout their journey, requiring careful planning for nutrition, hydration, and gear management. Aid stations are strategically placed along the route to provide essential supplies such as water, electrolytes, and limited snacks, but runners must come prepared with additional provisions tailored to their specific needs.
Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring that every athlete can fully experience this event’s spirit of self-reliance and accomplishment. From course setup to finish line support, volunteers help create an environment where athletes feel supported throughout the race week. If you're interested in being part of this dynamic team, email Travis Ketcham at travis.ketcham@spartan.com for volunteer opportunities.
Pacers are not permitted during any distance of Bloodroot Ultra, emphasizing individual effort and self-reliance as key elements of the event’s philosophy. Drop bag access is provided to help runners manage their gear efficiently; specific drop points vary depending on your chosen distance.
Safety remains a top priority at all times. Athletes must adhere strictly to course cutoffs and mandatory procedures such as carrying headlamps for night running, checking out properly upon completion or withdrawal from the race, and returning timing chips before leaving Riverside Farm.
Traveling to Pittsfield is straightforward with several airport options within driving distance: Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport (RUT), Burlington International Airport (BTV), Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), and Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. Detailed travel information can be found on the event website, along with links to view course maps for both Riverside Farm and Bloodroot Trail sections.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping is available in nearby Green Mountain National Forest areas like Michigan Road in Pittsfield/Stockbridge at no cost but requires your own tent and supplies. Remember that this camping option is separate from the event facilities provided by Peak Races or Riverside Farm itself.
Join us for an unforgettable journey through Vermont’s wilderness with Bloodroot Ultra, where every step taken pushes you closer to discovering what lies beyond your perceived limits.