In what will be a landmark moment for New England trail running and regional heritage, the Midstate Massive Ultra Trail will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the historic Midstate Trail with a special edition of its challenging trio of ultra-distance races on October 10–11.

Organized by New England Race Events, this year’s event pays tribute to a century of trail history, drawing runners from across the region and beyond to take on sections of the iconic Midstate Trail—a scenic route that stretches the length of Massachusetts, linking communities from north to south.

Participants can choose from point-to-point distances of 50K, 50 miles, or 100 miles and navigate rugged mountains, dense forests, open fields, river crossings, and picturesque terrain framed by peak New England fall foliage. Known for its formidable challenge and deeply immersive atmosphere, the Midstate Massive Ultra Trail delivers an experience where every finish reflects determination, resilience, and a true spirit of adventure.

Co-directors Rich Mazzola and Andy Marx, who started the Midstate Massive Ultra Trail eight years ago, encourage participants, volunteers, and spectators to join the celebration of trail heritage, athletic achievement, and outdoor culture at this once-in-a-lifetime centennial edition.

As part of the celebration, special commemorative items, historic trail exhibits, and recognition for runners who embody the trail’s centennial spirit will be featured at the race expo and finish line festivities.

“Reaching a centennial is incredibly rare, and it’s a privilege to celebrate the 100th year of the Midstate Trail with runners who embody perseverance and community,” Mazzola said. “This year’s race isn’t just about covering miles—it’s about honoring the legacy of the trail and those who’ve walked and run it over the last century.”

In the mid-1920s, a trail was blazed from Mount Watatic to Mount Wachusett, but it fell into disuse. In 1972, the Worcester County Commissioners proposed a trail that would recreate the abandoned route and extend the trail through the length of Worcester County. The trail was created primarily through the efforts of local volunteers. The Appalachian Mountain Club was heavily involved in the process and remains involved today.

The southern stretches of the Midstate Trail wind across terrain defined by rocky outcrops and ledges of gneiss and schist, with occasional bands of granite. In the central section, the route ascends the slopes and summits of glacial drumlins, including Moose Hill and Buck Hill in Spencer, Massachusetts. Farther north—particularly around Mount Watatic—the trail follows rugged ridgelines composed of 400-million-year-old, heavily metamorphosed schist and quartzite known as the Littleton Formation.

Click here to register for the Midstate Massive Ultra Trail races.

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