RACE DAY INFORMATION
We look forward to seeing you this Sunday, September 20th at the Summit Run 5K.
The starting gun goes off at 9:30 AM.
Check-in and Bib Pick-up opens at 8:30 AM. Please Check-in by 9:15 AM.
Here is some important information and logistics to help you with your race day.
Directions to Parking and the Starting Line: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ffifYfHpqUaZ6P2x7
Coming from the South – Follow Route 91 North, to Exit 19. Turn right onto Route 9 East. Turn right onto Bay Road to Route 47 South. Follow directions from Route 47 South (below).
Coming from the North – Follow Route 91 South to Exit 20 on to Route 5 South. At the first lights, turn left onto Damon Road. Turn left onto Route 9 East. Proceed over the Connecticut River, and turn right onto Bay Road to Route 47 South. Follow directions from Route 47 South (below).
From Route 47 South - Race parking is in a big field on the LEFT side just past Mitch's Marina.
Look for signs that say “Race Parking,” between two large trees on the LEFT. A flagger will be by the entrance.
Runner Check-In and Bib Pick-up
- Check in opens at 8:15 AM and is located about 900 feet south of the parking area.
- All runners should Check-in by 9:15 AM at the Check-In / Registration Table to allow time to get their bib.
- You do not need to provide identification, but you will need to state your name to the volunteer.
Your Bib must be attached to the front of your shirt or shorts. Please make sure your bib is visible to ensure we accurately time your race.
Porta-potties
There will be four port-potties by the check-in. Don't wait to the last moment to use them!
T-Shirts - For those who registered by 8/31/26, your Summit Run 5K T-shirt is available to be picked up at the T-Shirt Table after checking-in.
*Extra shirts (for those registering after 9/1) - there may be extra shirts available on a first-come, first serve basis at the refreshment area.
Bag Drop - You can leave a gear bag with clothes or a jacket for after the race that we will transport to the finish line for you.
- Look for the Runner's Gear Bag sign near the check-in area.
- Your gear will be waiting for you at the Summit near the Summit House.
The weather can be chilly at the Summit..
Spectators - Friends and families can drive or hike to the finish area to cheer you on. We love "cowbells!"
- The park gate opens at 8:00 AM until 9:30 AM. Cars will not be allowed up the road while the race is in progress.
- We recommend that spectators that are driving to the top get to the gate no later than 9:15AM.
- The road will reopen at the end of the race around 11:00 AM.
- You can also park by the park gate and walk up the park road to the finish area - about 1.6 miles.
Warm-up
If you want to warm-up, please only run on Mountain Road, NOT on Route 47.
The Race
Starting Line - Runners should line up at the starting line on Mountain Rd by 9:25 AM. It's a three minute walk from the check-in area. (Walk on the side of Rte 47 or through the field.)
After a few announcements the race will start promptly at 9:30 AM.
The Course
Please stay on the RIGHT side of the road.
The course begins on Mountain Rd. with a short, .4 mile run uphill to the corner by the Skinner Park Gate. Turn RIGHT and enjoy a fast .4 mile downhill (running on the RIGHT) to the turn around and reach Mile 1. Cheer on runners you pass on your way back up the hill to the Skinner Park Gate. Shift to your climbing gear as you head up .6 miles on the park road to Mile 2 and the water stop. After another short climb you reach a relatively level area where you can pick up your pace. At mile 2.7 you reach the two challenging switchback turns as you dig in to reach the finish line. When you see the parking area and the Summit House, it's time to push hard to the finish with a big smile.
Course Map: Click here to check out the course!
Finish Line Area
Refreshments - Water, apples, clementines and cookies will be available a short walk from the finish area.
Bag Drop Pick-up - Look for the sign to find your “stuff.”
Bathrooms - There are public bathrooms in the lower level of the Skinner House.
* Medical Assistance from Hadley FD EMT is available if needed, by the Bathrooms.
Results
Your results will be available instantly from Rat Race Timing by scanning the QR code on your bib or going to results.aratrace.com.
Photos
There will be two photographers at the start, out on the course and at the finish to capture the racers. Give a fist pump and big smile.
Photos will be posted on the website and are free to download.
You can also upload your own images from the race to the race website to share with others.
Enjoy the View from the top
A short walk from the finish area beyond the refreshment will afford you a spectacular view of the Connecticut River valley.
A view that will take your breath away
Awards
Awards will be presented at about 10:30 am at the refreshment area.
Awards will be given to all age group winners and overall winners. (male and female).
Age Group Divisions: M/F/NB
* = 5 Year Age Groups 65+
Getting Back Down
You’re on your own to either walk, jog or run back the 1.6 miles to the starting area. When you get to the Skinner House Park Gate, make a right and head down the hill to the parking area. There are also several hiking trails available. Watch out for traffic as the park road will open around 11:00 AM.
Weather
We always hope for perfect conditions, but the race will go on if it rains. Fingers crossed for a perfect fall day!
Questions
Please email any questions or concerns to the Race Directors at
summitrun5k@sugarloafmounatinathletic.org
We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!
Your Race Directors
David Martula
Brian Williams
Kathie Williams
Grant Ritter
David Theoharides
UPDATED 9/16/2026
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