Each autumn, the Groton Forest Trail Races in Groton, Vermont, invite runners of all levels to meet a route that is fiercely itself—unyielding, natural, charged with the pulse of the forest. Here, paths weave through a robust mixture of hardwood and evergreens that lean over narrow, sometimes rocky trails, daring you to keep pace with their shifting rhythms. Expect climbs that push lungs and legs, with an average elevation gain of 800 feet over the 15k course, challenging but fair for those prepared.

The terrain ranges from soft dirt packed by countless feet to jagged roots and occasional stones that demand focus and steady footing. The forest floor crunches underfoot as leaves turn, hinting at the race’s peak in September and October. The air carries the scent of damp earth and pine, while streams crossing the trail provoke a lively negotiation with slippery rocks, reminding you that nature leads this race with a steady, unhurried hand.

Starting at the Groton State Forest trailhead, runners quickly find themselves enveloped by the forest’s dense canopy. The contrast of open meadows offers brief moments of sun and expansive views of the surrounding hills, rewarding climbs with a glance into Vermont's deeply green countryside. The course loops cleverly to keep the challenge fresh — at times narrow and technical; at others, wide enough for pace adjustments but requiring constant attention.

From a planning perspective, hydration stations are well spaced but never assume you’ll find water at every mile. Carry at least one liter in a pack or handheld bottle. Good trail shoes with solid grip and protection against roots and rocks are essential to avoid slips and bruises. Timing the race for early morning helps runners miss afternoon heat and afternoon-thickening fog that sometimes rolls off the nearby lakes.

Groton offers more than a test of speed: it demands respect for its raw, unfiltered character. It’s a place where the forest breathes, pauses, and then pushes back. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or aiming simply to finish, this race is a practical adventure in endurance, awareness, and connection to a Vermont landscape that insists you move with intent.