Racing 100 miles or 100 kilometers is a big undertaking. Below are answers to some of the most frequent questions we get. Information is organized by relevant sections to help you quickly find what you need. Thank you!
The VT100 lottery, and resulting registration, take place in early to mid January of each year. Both lottery and registration will be hosted through RunReg.com. Those participating in the lottery will be randomly selected, in accordance with the registration limits for the event. There is no fee to enter the lottery. If you are chosen in the lottery, your credit card will be charged immediately and you’ll be notified via email. For more information about the registration process, check out the Race Entry page.
If you are running the 100 mile race, then YES. Runners in the 100 mile event must submit a qualifier. A full description of the requirements is included on the Race Entry page. To summarize, a 50 miler in 12 hours or less or a 100k in 16 hours or less must be completed within 18 months of the event, or a 100 miler in 30 hours of less must be completed within 2 years of the event. Qualifiers must be submitted by June 1st. Those who don’t submit their qualifier on time won’t be able to participate in the 100 mile race.
If you are running the 100k event, then no you don’t need a qualifier.
Yes. 8 hours of trail work or volunteering must be completed by all participants within 12 months of the race date, or runners can opt to pay the volunteer buy-out fee. A full description of what is allowable is included on the Race Entry page. Pacing or crewing do not count as volunteer time. Work on your local trail or volunteer at a race (trail and ultra races preferred but not required). It’ll be well worth your time.
VT100 welcomes runners who commit to fundraising for Vermont Adaptive, and have set aside several spots in the event for these runners.
Registration for the Team is currently open. Visit our Team Run 2 Empower page, or Email the RD if you are interested in learning more and potentially joining.
Yes. Links will be posted following the lottery.
View the 100k start/waitlist
View the 100m start/waitlist
Runners are welcome to join the waitlist on a first come, first served basis following the lottery. At that time, follow the registration link to join the waitlists.
Download the 2024 Runner’s Handbook.The current year’s edition will be posted around July 1st of the current year. If you download the previous year’s edition, be mindful to check back closer to the race date to get the most updated information.
YES, THIS IS A CUPLESS RACE. Bring your own cup, bottle, or both, and keep it with you like a security blanket. You’ll need it for the Friday dinner, throughout the race, and at the post-race meal. Check out this cup.
Here is the Google map link to Silver Hill, however we ask that you follow the written instructions as some local roads are closed to race traffic.
Packet Pick up is Friday of race weekend, at race HQ, beginning at 11 am and ending prior to the pre-race meeting.
At this time, there is no medical check in.
The mandatory pre-race meeting is on Friday at 4:15pm.
The pre-race meal is Friday following the pre-race meeting. You will be given a wrist band that is your meal ticket. Family and friends and pacer meal tickets ARE NOT included in your entry fee. Extra meal tickets will be available at the Merchandise Table.
4am Saturday for the 100 mile.
9am Saturday for the 100k.
We’ll hand out buckles and finisher awards as you cross the finish line. However, top finishers will be recognized with awards (and other random awards will be given) at the post-race meal on Sunday at 10:30am.
The post-race BBQ is on Sunday at 10:30am.
Unfortunately, no, unless they are service animals. While we love our pets, please leave your dogs at home. We are guests at Silver Hill. Also, we share our home base with horses, who can easily be spooked by dogs.
Unfortunately, no. There is a pond on site, and a hose available across the road from the runner’s camping.
Yes! There are labeled recycling bins and compost containers at race HQ. Recycling bins are also available at aid stations, and work with aid stations to promote composting.
Yes. Both 100 milers & 100k’s will receive a pair of finisher’s shorts upon crossing the finish line. In addition, 100 k finishers will receive a custom horseshoe and 100 mile runners will receive a buckle. Solo/uncrewed runners will receive a VT100 commemorative glass.
Awards are given to the top 3 in the male and female category of the 100k, and the top 5 in the male and female category of the 100 mile. Awards are also given to top solo finishers, top athlete with disabilities, and age group winners (40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+) for each gender category and each distance.
Here’s the 100-mile elevation profile:
Here’s the 100-km elevation profile:
The 100 miler has 17,000 ft of elevation gain, the 100k has 9,000 ft of elevation gain.
We do not publish course maps because most of the VT100 is on private land. We deeply respect our landowners’ privacy and are very thankful they generously grant us access to run on their land for the weekend of the VT100. Without these landowners, the VT100 would not be possible. Thank you, landowners!
Gravel / Trail – Jeep road / Paved
100 Mile: 68.5% / 29% / 2.5%
100-km: 66.5% / 32% / 1.5%
The 100 mile course will be marked with large yellow plastic dinner plates, with bold dark black arrows indicating direction (right, left or straight). Where the course turns, there will be one arrow plate BEFORE the turn, two plates at the turn, and another plate AFTER the turn. On some stretches you will see confidence plates with a large C (for confidence) on it, to assure you that you are still on course. The 100K will be marked with LAVENDER plastic dinner plates only until it joins the 100 mile course (at Lillian’s Aid Station, about mile 5.6), at which point everyone will follow yellow plates. At night, in addition to the plates, there will be green glow stick/chem-lites marking the route.
The 100k course starts at Silver Hill Meadow and proceeds approx. 6.5 miles to Lillian’s Aid Station, which is approx. mile 44 for the 100 milers. From Lillian’s to the finish, the two courses are identical.
You can, but a road shoe would probably be sufficient.
They can be. It depends on how much rain falls before race day, or on race day. Normally there isn’t much mud…but some years there is plenty!
The temps could be as low as 50 degrees, but typically fall between 65-70 degrees with lots of fog.
Historically, it’s about 75-85 degrees. Rainy days can be cooler, between 65-75 degrees.
Running with horses is safe. The horses will not run you over; they actually want to slow down to your pace. If a horse and rider want to pass you, they will ask you to step aside. If you want to pass a horse, speak with the rider and wait until they says it’s okay. At night, in particular, talk to the rider as soon as you’re within earshot; until the horse knows you are a human, the horse may be frightened. And above all, don’t point your bright flashlight towards horses – they like that even less than us runners do! Enjoy the experience of running with horses, it’s the only remaining runner and rider event in the world.
The 100 mile cut-off time is 10:00 a.m. on Sunday.
The 100 K cut-off time is also 10:00 a.m. on Sunday.
Aid station listings & closing times are listed here for the 100 mile race and here for the 100 km race.
TBD. In the past we have had brands like Base Performance Hydro. All runners were also given a tube of the Base Performance Electrolytes, to use in conjunction with the Hydro. If you plan on using any products we supply, it is strongly suggested that you try that product in your training. Thank you.
Minor aid can be obtained along the course at the handler stations, if an EMT is present. All manned aid stations will have basic first aid kits and electrolyte caplets. We have HAM Radio communication at all handler stations in order to connect injured runners with medical personnel.
Yes. WE ARE A CUPLESS RACE. Bring your own cup, or bottle, or both.
No. Most of our aid stations are on private property. We are guests there. As a courtesy, please leave your pets at home.
Yes, there is a free shuttle that runs from the start/finish area to Camp 10 Bear starting around 11am and running throughout the night. The shuttle will also take folks to the Spirit of 76 and Bill’s Aid Station if requested. Shuttles aren’t on a schedule (i.e. we can’t tell you when they’ll leave), but are constantly driving back and forth… so there is typically one arriving at each location at least every 30 minutes, and more frequently during busier times.
Yes. Drop bags should be soft sided, waterproof and durable. A small backpack or gear bag about 9”x9”x16” (or smaller) is acceptable. Larger bags will not be considered. For more information, go to our blog and read this post: Drop Bag Instructions for Your VT100.
These locations can be found in the Runner’s Handbook.
All drop bags must be in place on Silver Hill by 5:30pm on Friday of race weekend. No exceptions. They will be returned to Silver Hill as aid stations close, and should all be back by 10am Sunday.
All drop bags MUST be labeled with runner name & number, as well as aid station number & name. They will be sorted by bib # in the aid stations. For example:
J SMITH #77
CAMP 10 BEAR #11
Sharpie marker on duct tape works well.
Since runners pass through twice, Camp Ten Bear is aid station #11 and aid station #17. There will be 2 drop bag areas; one area for #11, and one area for #17. If you want to use one drop bag for both areas, clearly mark the drop bag “Camp Ten Bear #11.” After you use the drop bag on your first time through Camp Ten Bear, drop the bag in the #17 pile before you leave and the bag will be there when you return.
Check out our 2018 post on pre race activities. Each year will feature similar activities and schedules.
Yes, kinda. Vermont is remote, and live timing is challenging. Just try to get a cell signal while you’re up there! We do our best, and upload live timing from the aid stations that have the ability to do so – but please understand that there are very few able to achieve this.
Runners are allowed ONE crew vehicle and will receive a car hang tag for their crew. Crews will be required to display this car hang tag to enter aid stations.
Directions to aid stations are provided in the Runner’s Handbook.
Aid can ONLY be given at crew/handler aid stations. Any runner given aid outside of handler/crew stations will be disqualified. See the Runner’s Handbook for a list of handler/crew aid stations.
Runners, or their crew, MUST let an aid station official know if a runner has dropped. Bibs must be turned in. Sometimes DNF means ‘did nothing fatal’.
Criteria for entry into the VT100 AWD category is as follows:
- AWDs must be able to run the course.
- Tethers may be used for athletes with a visually impairment.
- Leg prosthetics may be used for amputees.
- Crutches, braces, or poles may be used if indicated/necessary, with approval from the RD.
- Since there are plenty of mucky Vermont trails on-course, it is not suitable for athletes in wheelchairs (see more on this below – AWD Division Breakdown).
- AWDs must be able to finish within the 30 hour cutoff (100 mile) or 20 hour cutoff (100km).
AWDs will follow the same registration process as the general registration, and will register for the distance race they plan to run. If an AWD requires additional time to register (e.g. due to visual impairment), contact the RD for early registration.
Based on International Paralympic Committee impairment descriptions, the VT 100 will *recognize two types of AWDs based on clearly defined eligible impairments: Visually impaired and mobility impaired.
*Depending on number of AWDs registered, the VT100 may choose to group all AWDs within one division or recognize each division listed below individually:
1. VISUAL IMPAIRED DIVISION
Individuals with vision impacted by an impairment of the eye structure, optical nerves or optical pathways, or the visual cortex, may be granted registration as an AWD but will not be allowed extended time on the course.
A couple things to note about our course for visually impaired athletes:
- Course Markings
The Vermont 100 uses colored plates (yellow) to mark the course during the day and glow sticks (yellow) to mark the course at night. AWDs, with assistance from their guide as needed, must be able to follow the course as marked. Unfortunately, the Vermont 100 is not able make accommodations for athletes with visual impairments by altering the standard course markings. - Canines
In general, dogs aren’t allowed at Silver Hill or at other venues associated with the VT100 (aid stations, race course, etc.). If an athlete with a visual impairment requires a guide dog, please contact Race Director for permission to have the dog at Silver Hill and the aid stations. Again, only at the start/finish grounds and designated aid stations. Dogs will still not be allowed on the course.
2. MOBILITY IMPRAIRED DIVISION
Individuals with permanent physical disabilities that affect their ability to walk/run, may be granted registration as an AWD but will not be allowed extended time on the course.
This includes:
- Limb deficiency
Total or partial absence of bones or joints as a consequence of trauma (e.g. car accident), illness (e.g. bone cancer) or congenital limb deficiency (e.g. dysmelia). - Leg length difference
Bone shortening in one leg due to congenital deficiency or trauma. - Short stature
Reduced standing height due to abnormal dimensions of bones of upper and lower limbs or trunk, for example due to achondroplasia (dwarfism) or growth hormone dysfunction.
Unfortunately, due to course restrictions and safety concerns related to the trails of the VT100.
This does not include:
- *Athletes in wheelchairs and duo teams in hand cycles, push-rim cycles, or racing wheelchairs.
*All AWDs must be fully ambulatory, the use of any mechanical device will not be allowed.
AWDs and their guide(s) will follow the same rules as all participants:
Start times, Course, and Time Limits
- AWDs will start with the rest of the athletes for their race (4:00am. for 100 mile, 9:00am for 100km).
- AWDs will run the same course as the rest of the athletes.
- The course time limit is the same for AWDs as for all participants for their race (25 hours for 100km, 30 hours for 100 mile).
Guide Rules
- Guides are expected to follow the same rules as all other pacers.
- AWDs may be accompanied by one guide at a time to complete the VT 100. Accommodations may be made if an AWD requires more than one guide at a time.
- Guide exchanges will take place at crew-accessible aid stations. Accommodations may be made for exchanges at other manned aid stations upon request.
- Athletes are responsible for bringing their own guides to the race.
- Guides are not official entrants in the VT100 and are not timed, scored, or listed in the official results. If a guide wants to be officially timed, scored and listed in results, they need to register as a VT100 participant including paying entry fees and qualifying for the event.
- Guides participate free of charge, but must sign a waiver prior to participation.
- Athlete and guide are regarded as a team and must be together at all times along the course.
- Guides must wear a GUIDE bib on the front and back of their outermost layer, kept visible at all times.
- Guides may not use a bicycle or other mechanical means of transport.
- Guides cannot pull the athlete, or propel the athlete forward by pushing.
- Guides cannot mule for the athlete, or run ahead to aid stations to fill water bottles or otherwise unfairly advantage their athlete.
- Guides must adhere to the same standards as Pacers (see Runner Handbook for full rules)
- Guide may have a drop bag, separate from their athletes drop bag, at aid stations that allow drop bags.
- Guides are encouraged to attend the pre-race briefing on Friday at 4:15pm, however it is ultimately the AWD’s responsibility to attend the meeting and inform their crew and guides of all race rules/regulations.
Guide Responsibilities
- Assure that drop bags (the guide’s’ and AWD’s) are placed in the correct corral in the staging area, immediately following the race briefing.
- Work with AWDs to ensure safety of the AWD. This includes communication between the AWD and guide to stay out of the way (typically running on the side of the trail/road) when being approached from behind by horses, faster runners, or officials on the course in order to avoid collisions.
In 2017, the VT100 deepened our commitment to adaptive sports by becoming the first trail ultra ever to recognize mobility and visually impaired athletes in their own division: Athletes With Disabilities (AWD).
Yes. We allow folks (runners, crew/pacers, volunteers) to camp at Silver Hill for free on Friday and Saturday nights. Camping is limited, and it’s basically space in a large field (you get what you pay for!). There are no designated sites.
Unfortunately, RVs are not allowed to stay at Silver Hill. There is no parking or hookups for RVs. Runners with RVs should park their campers at designated RV parks. Check out Crown Point Camping Area, Getaway Mtn Campground, and/or Running Bear Campground.
Here’s a detailed link to all your race weekend needs: Gas Food Ice – Where to Buy It Along the VT100 Race Route.
There’s an EMS about a 40 minute drive from race HQ:
18 Glen Rd, West Lebanon, NH 07384
Omer & Bob’s is another great choice for last minute gear, also about 40 minutes from race HQ:
Brownsville Butcher & Pantry
871 Rte 44 Brownsville
Managed by: Lauren & Peter
Excellent eatery, Vermont gifts, basic staples, ice, delicious pastries.
Monday- Friday 7am–8pm, Sunday 7am–3pm
There are plenty of off-site hotels, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, and AirBnB accommodations within a drivable radius of the VT100 start/finish.
Search Google for results in: West Windsor VT, Ascutney VT, White River Junction VT, Woodstock VT, and Lebanon NH.
Also check out the Windsor Town Welcome Center for more local lodging & helpful tips.
Mt Ascutney State Park, Running Bear Campground, or Getaway Mountain Campground. These are just a few of the local campgrounds. Many more are within a ½ hour drive.
- Hartford CT is 2 hours
- Albany NY and Boston MA are 3 hours
Hartford Chamber of Commerce
5966 Woodstock Rd, White River Junction, VT 05001
(802) 295-6852
Woodstock Chamber of Commerce
3 Mechanic St, Woodstock, VT 05091
(802) 457-3555
Greater Claremont, NH Chamber of Commerce
24 #100 Tremont St, Claremont, NH 03743
(603) 543-1296
We’re so glad you asked!!
Read more about volunteering here, or email our volunteer coordinator Carolyn at vt100volunteers@gmail.com. Thank you!
Check out our Run Formula blog post on training tips.
VT100 happens every year during the third weekend of July. Summer in Vermont means heat and high humidity. Please plan accordingly.
Historically, we don’t have rain race day, but it can rain; it is summer in New England. Again, prepare for the worst, and hope for the best.
While there are no long, sustained climbs, this is a hilly course! Again, train accordingly.
Also, check out the movie Head/Heart/Feet about training & running the VT100, and check out these ultrarunning training plans from Trail and Ultra Running and Runner’s World.
YES!
We are pleased to inform you that the 2025 Vermont 100 Endurance Race has again been selected as a qualifying race for the 2026 Western States 100.
Runners who complete our 100-mile race within our time limit (30 hours) will qualify to enter the lottery where the runners for Western States will be selected.
New this year (2025)! Runners who complete our 100k race within 17 hours (the Western States requirement) of our 20-hour time limit will qualify to enter the lottery where the runners for Western States will be selected.
The qualifying period for the 2026 Western States will be from November 4, 2024 through November 2, 2025.
Great question. We’re one of the oldest hundred mile races in the United States, a part of the Grand Slam of Ultra Running, and the only remaining race that simultaneously features runners and riders. Our history page tells all.
For more on the VT100 Endurance Ride, visit the Endurance Ride website, or learn by checking out this three-part podcast: Davy Crockett’s 3 history of endurance riding. It’s well worth the listen.
http://ultrarunninghistory.com/endurance-riding-1/
http://ultrarunninghistory.com/endurance-riding-2/
http://ultrarunninghistory.com/endurance-riding-part-3/
For over 30 years our race has been one of the largest annual fundraisers for Vermont Adaptive.
Vermont Adaptive empowers people of all abilities through year-round inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of their ability to pay.
With nearly 400 active volunteers, plus generous partners, sponsors, and individual fundraising efforts like yours, Vermont Adaptive is able to stay at the forefront of sports and recreation for those with disabilities.
As the world’s first trail and ultra race to supports and recognize visually and mobility impaired athletes with their own awards, we believe in what Vermont Adaptive does every day for its participants and we encourage your continued support.
DONATE TODAY or check out Fundraising page to learn more.
We’re here for you! Email us at vt100@vermontadaptive.org
