We are thrilled and honored to welcome you to the scenic landscapes of Maine, USA, as we proudly host the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship. This year's event marks a celebration of both nature's beauty and the remarkable spirit of trail running enthusiasts from around the globe.
Maine's rugged terrain, captivating wilderness, and picturesque vistas have provided us with the perfect canvas to create an unforgettable trail running experience. As the heart of the XTERRA community, we're excited to share this exceptional journey with athletes who have traveled far and wide to be a part of this extraordinary event.
The XTERRA Trail Run World Championship is not just a race; it's a testament to the dedication, passion, and camaraderie that unites athletes from diverse backgrounds. We are immensely proud to see this event bring together athletes from every corner of the world, transcending borders and cultures to celebrate the sport we all love.
What truly sets this championship apart is the warmth and support of the local community. Maine's hospitality and sense of togetherness have laid the foundation for this remarkable event. We extend our gratitude to the people of Maine for their open arms and incredible enthusiasm in welcoming our international participants.
As you take on the challenges of the trails and navigate the courses that wind through our majestic landscapes, remember that you're not just running a race; you're part of a legacy that connects athletes, nature, and the pursuit of excellence.
On behalf of XTERRA and the entire community, we extend a heartfelt welcome to each and every athlete, supporter, and enthusiast. Let's embark on this journey together, fuelled by the thrill of competition, the bonds of friendship, and the shared love for the outdoors.
Here's to an exhilarating championship, memorable moments, and forging connections that will last a lifetime. Welcome to Maine, welcome to the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship!
On behalf of my esteemed colleagues on the local organizing committee, it is our true pleasure to welcome you to Maine. Our team is thrilled XTERRA has selected Sugarloaf Mountain as the destination for the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship!
This collaborative effort includes leaders from Sugarloaf, Carrabassett Valley, Maine Huts & Trails, the Maine Office of Tourism, the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, the Maine Sports Commission and trail running groups.
Whether you’re a resident running, this is a return trip or you’re discovering this northernmost New England state for the first time, carve out time to discover all the region and Maine has to offer. Scenic mountains, pristine lakes and the stunning coastline create a place for adventures…
Perhaps you’ve heard Maine is known for lobster and lighthouses? There is so much more to experience! You’ll find restaurants featuring award-winning chefs and farm to table choices - as well as those lobster rolls. Be sure to visit step back in time seaside towns and vibrant mountain villages, countless craft breweries and charming communities where you’ll be made to feel like neighbors.
Our group wishes you luck on your run and an XTERRA event at Sugarloaf, Maine you’ll always remember.
How exciting to greet you at the finish line in this beautiful place I call home.
Maine is all about nature. Its coastline spans over 3,000 miles with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and iconic lighthouses. Inland, you'll find dense forests, pristine lakes, and the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain in central Maine which boasts over 60 miles of scenic trails, spanning from 1,417 to 4,237 feet in elevation. As you traverse this natural landscape, you'll encounter tree-lined trails, bubbling streams, and unexpected vistas. Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the most prominent outdoor recreation destinations in the northeastern United States.
Whether you crave coastal beauty, mountain adventures, or serene forests, Maine delivers an unforgettable experience for anyone who craves movement or relaxation. The diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and dedication to preserving its natural heritage makes Maine's commitment to conservation well respected in their efforts to preserve wildlife and natural resources for future generations.
Inland Maine in the fall is characterized by vibrant natural colors, excellent opportunities for scenic drives, hikes, runs and mountain bike rides. Apple picking, harvest festivals, and the peacefulness of its lakes and rivers invites people from all walks of life to enjoy as they see fit.
As we move into the fall season with its fantastic display of colors, we need to be cautious of what the weather may have in store for us.
In the early days of fall, you can expect pleasant temperatures with daytime highs averaging in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit (15-25°C). You may also notice a gradual cooling trend, especially during the evenings, when temperatures can drop into the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit (4-15°C).
For fall weather in Maine, layering is essential. Start with a long-sleeved shirt with the option to add a sweater, topped by a versatile jacket or coat. Choose pants or jeans for your lower half. Pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket or raincoat for possible showers. Good socks and close-toed shoes are recommended for keeping your feet warm and dry.
Consider carrying a small backpack for these extra layers and throw some healthy snacks in there for extra fuel to temporarily raise your body temperature, giving you an extra sensation of warmth when you need it.
If you would like to explore the historical weather a bit further, you may look here.
The advised international airport to use is Portland, Maine Airport (PWM). To assist with those traveling this route, XTERRA has organised a shuttle bus which athletes may book to make their travel easier. The shuttle will pickup individuals on Friday, September 29, 2023 at 12:00 from the Portland, Maine airport (PWM) and head directly to Sugarloaf Resort. The shuttle will then leave Sugarloaf Resort on Monday, October 2, 2023 at 09:00 and head back to the Portland, Maine airport. Shuttle tickets are non-refundable and must be purchased as a roundtrip. Shuttle tickets must be purchased through the registration process. If you have already registered, you can go back into your My Active Account to make an additional purchase. Instructions can be found here.
Local airport information: Sugarloaf Regional Airport, located at 1220 Carrabassett Drive in Kingfield, Maine
Other nearby airports include:
Bus Information: Greyhound Bus Service to Portland, Bangor, and Waterville
Local and Statewide Taxi Service: All Points Transportation
XTERRA Shuttle
Reduce arrival and departure transportation stress by booking your spot on the XTERRA shuttle. The shuttle will pickup individuals on Friday, September 29, 2023 at 12:00 from the Portland, Maine airport (PWM) and head directly to Sugarloaf Resort. The shuttle will then leave Sugarloaf Resort on Monday, October 2, 2023 at 09:00 and head back to the Portland, Maine airport. Shuttle tickets are non-refundable and must be purchased as a roundtrip. Shuttle tickets must be purchased through the registration process. If you have already registered, you can go back into your My Active Account to make an additional purchase.
INSTRUCTIONS TO PURCHASE XTERRA SHUTTLE TICKETS
There is accommodation available at the event venue as well as nearby. Some options are listed below:
Sugarloaf Mountain Resort - Choose between the Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel, the resort's signature lodging, or a variety of other options including trailside condos or private premier properties. Book now.
Mountain View Motel and Campground - The Mountain View Motel & Campground is located just 6 miles north of Sugarloaf USA. Book now.
Spillover Motel and Inn at Stratton Brook - Nestled in the beautiful Western Mountains of Maine. Located 7 miles north of Sugarloaf. Book now.
Hostel of Maine - The Hostel of Maine is a cozy lodge with private and shared accommodations for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups. Book now.
The Inn on Winter's Hill - Tucked away in the Maine woods alongside the rushing Carrabassett River. Book now.
Flagstaff Landing - Nestled on the shores of Flagstaff Lake in Eustis, Maine, our renovated barn offers a serene and private getaway. Book now.
RV Camping - Information about RV camping at Sugarloaf can be found by visiting https://www.sugarloaf.com/rv-camping.
With it's majestic mountain and world-class trails, Sugarloaf is an standout venue to host the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship, but it is the resort itself, with its famous hospitality and first class facilities. lodging services and entertainment that make it the perfect place for XTERRA athletes to enjoy the peak event of the trail running season. Whether you are staying it the resort itself, or coming in for the day, you will find everything you need at the resort. Please visit the Sugarloaf Resort website for any further info you may need.
The XTERRA Expo will be the gathering spot for all the race-day action. Athletes can relax with a post-race massage treatment, visit one of our local partner booths, and enjoy live afternoon music. Athlete's family and friends can also catch all the action and excitement from the start and finish lines at the expo area. The expo area is located within Sugarloaf Village, so everything from delicious food to restroom facilities are right at hand.
With the event being held at Sugarloaf resort, there is a wide choice of restaurants and eatery options available. Below are some of the restaurants available at the resort.
Black Diamond Burritos
The Bag & Kettle - American Cuisine
Mas Amigos Mexican Style Grill
D'Ellies - Bakery and Deli
45 North - Restaurant and Bar
Plenty of parking is available at the resort and venue.
For those doing the full and half marathon, we provide a list of essential and recommended equipment and items you can prepare for the race. While the following gear will not be checked pre-race, and time penalties will not be given for missing items, we strongly recommend you bring the listed essential equipment for your own safety when running on the mountain. Additional safety measures will also be in place.
Make sure you bring the following for the race:
Be prepared for the weather and elements by preparing the following:
Courses will be open and available for pre-run during race week.
The Sugarloaf side of the highway , which includes all of the half marathon course and the first 15k and last 8k of the full marathon) will be marked by Tuesday or Wednesday of race week.
The river side of the highway, which includes kilometers 16-34 of the full marathon course, won't be marked until Thursday.
Runners may of course also explore the courses themselves using online maps or GPX files. Both can be found on the event page. Click through to find the appropriate race, and you will find the maps and GPX filers.
Join us on Friday morning at 9am for a run led by Patrick Caron, a prominent Salomon trail runner and founder of Move Free. Our run clinic promises an unforgettable experience, offering a sneak peek into the challenges that await Trail Runners. This short and manageable 5K run is open to all, regardless of whether you're participating in the World Championship or simply looking to enhance your trail running skills. Patrick will be your guiding star, sharing invaluable insights on terrain mastery, race strategy, essential gear, and optimal nutrition. Don't miss this golden chance to elevate your trail running game and soak up Patrick's expertise.
Athletes participating in the must attend the race briefing in Sugarloaf Village on Saturday at 14:00. The XTERRA technical team will present the course, rules and important safety information that athletes will need to keep in mind as they participate.
First check the official start list to confirm your bib number, and check your starting time.
The check in area can be found in the Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel, near the information desk. Check-in times are as follows:
Friday, September 29: All athletes may check-in from 14:00 - 17:30
Saturday, September 30: 5K and 10K runners can check-in from 07:00-09:00, full and half-marathon runners may check-in from 09:00 - 17:00
Sunday, October 1st: Last chance for check-in from 06:00 -07:00
Athletes only need to bring some form of ID to check-in. Athletes will need to pick up their own packets. Thank you for understanding.
On check-in, all athletes will receive their race pack containing the following:
Please use the pins to securely fasten your bib to the front of your shirt. It is important that your bib number is clearly visible throughout the race. Your racing chip is on the back of your bib, so keeping the number intact is crucial.
Athletes will not be required to provide any sort of medical certificate of licence to participate.
On race day, you only need to get yourself to the start-line with your running gear, with your bib safely fastened to the front of your shirt or top. Don't forget to double check your gear.
Wearing your race bib correctly is crucial to ensure a smooth and organized race experience. To properly wear your race bib, follow these simple steps. First, secure your bib to the front of your running shirt or outer layer. It should be centered and pinned at all four corners to prevent it from flapping or falling off during the race. Make sure it lies flat and is clearly visible to race officials and photographers. Avoid folding or crumpling the bib to maintain its readability. Additionally, ensure that your bib is not covered by clothing or accessories, such as jackets or hydration packs, as this could hinder race officials from identifying you.
Athletes may leave a bag at the bag drop located near the check-in area (located in Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel) for safe-keeping during their race.
Violators will be disqualified and withdrawn from the race if in the case of:
*Violations that are severe or intentional may result in banning from future races.
In the event of concerns or complaints related to time mats or reports from other runners, it's important to follow a clear and organized procedure. First and foremost, promptly communicate your issue to race officials or volunteers stationed at the race, providing as much detail as possible. They will document your complaint and initiate an investigation if necessary.
If your concern involves discrepancies in your race timing, provide your bib number and any available evidence (e.g., GPS data) to support your claim. Race organizers typically have protocols in place to address timing issues, and they will work diligently to resolve any discrepancies.
Regarding complaints from other runners, it's essential to approach race officials in a respectful and constructive manner. Share your concerns, and let them handle the situation according to the race's established rules and guidelines. Remember that fostering a positive and sportsmanlike environment is a key aspect of any racing event.
Information, rules and qualification criteria for the XTERRA Trail Run World Series can be found here.
Athletes qualifying for the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship in the full or half divisions are invited to join us for a night of celebrating the racing road to Maine.
All XTERRA Trail Run World Championship qualifiers will receive one (1) free Dinner of Champions ticket included with their registration. If athletes in the championship races wish to purchase additional dinner tickets, please do so through the registration process. Vegan dinners must be selected in advance. Child dinners are for kids under 10 years old.
Space is limited. Tickets are first come first serve and cannot be refunded. Tickets at the door will only be available if space allows.
If you have already registered, you can go back into your My Active Account to make an additional purchase.
INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL DINNER TICKETS
When: Friday, September 29 at 18:00
Where: King Pine Room, Sugarloaf Village
Awards will be handed out for each distance and race, on both the Saturday (5K and 10K) and Sunday (Half and Full Marathons). The main awards will be the crowning of the new 2023 XTERRA World Trail Running champions, which will take place on Sunday at Sugarloaf Village, starting from 12:30.
5K Awards Ceremony: Saturday, September 30th at 10:30
10K Awards Ceremony: Saturday, September 30th at 11:15
Sugarloaf Half Marathon Awards: Sunday, October 1st at 12:30
Sugarloaf Full Marathon Awards: Sunday, October 1st at 13:30
World Championships Half and Full Marathon Awards: Sunday, October 1st at 14:00
All 2024 XTERRA Trail Run World Championship qualifiers and 2023 XTERRA Trail Run World Champions will be emailed an invitation to enter next year's race following the event.
All award ceremonies will be held at Sugarloaf Village.
All athletes, friends and family are welcome to come and enjoy some live music on the Saturday and Sunday. We have live bands of various genres lined up to keep you entertained.
Saturday, September 30th
12:00 - 14:30: Chicken Street Band (Folkgrass)
15:00 - 17:30: Juke Joint Devils (Jump Blues and Swing combo)
Sunday, October 1st
15:00 - 18:00: Rose Alley (Jerry Garcia cover band)
18:30 - 20:30: Dryer and The Daydreamers (Rock covers)
Hopefully you managed to get in some rest after your race, so you can take to your feet one more time and join us on the dance floor. Come celebrate a race well run with the rest of the XTERRA trail community at the afterparty with DJ Max Dansky.
When: Sunday, October 1st, 21:00 - 00:00.
Where: Sugarloaf Village
This fun, free event is for all kids 10 and under. Groups will be split to provide an age-appropriate distance for each participant. Parents will be permitted to run alongside their young children if necessary. Registration in advance is required.
All finishers will be given an award, but unfortunately no shirts.
When: Saturday, September 30th
Where: Sugarloaf Village
Medical services and first aid care will be available at the venue, and will be provided by the Sugarloaf Mountain Safety Team.
Stay in the loop with all the XTERRA Trail Run updates, event highlights, and insider scoops by following us on Instagram and Facebook.Our social media platforms are your go-to sources for the latest news and action-packed content, ensuring you're always in the know about the event series and everything it has to offer.
Additionally, for on-the-go information during race week, be sure to download the Sugarloaf App at https://www.sugarloaf.com/sugarloaf-app. This handy app will provide you with valuable insights, event details, and real-time updates, ensuring you're fully equipped to make the most of your XTERRA Trail Run experience. Don't miss out on any of the excitement—connect with us online and stay informed every step of the way!
There will be multiple toilets and restrooms available throughout the resort. Please note that there are no public shower facilities available at the venue.
ATMs are available within Sugarloaf Resort and Sugarloaf Village. Restaurants and vendors may also provide credit card facilities.
Enduro Photos will be providing the athlete photo service for the event. Athletes will be contacted with details on how to get their finish line or race photos after the race.
Live results for the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship will be available here on the day of the event.
Results will also be available on-site after the race, with LCD monitors to display results and a kiosk for result printing.
The XTERRA Trail Run World Championship team asks that you respect the environment and the trails. Please leave no trace of rubbish on the trails or at Sugarloaf before, during, or after the race. Violations may result in time penalties or disqualification.
XTERRA strives to do its part as well. Athletes are encouraged to carry their own reusable, refillable hydration container. Compostable cups will also be available on course if needed. Virtual athlete event bags have been implemented to cutdown on paper. Trophies have been sourced locally, and medals have been made from 95% recycled materials. Athletes can also check out all the great things Sugarloaf is doing to protect our environment at https://www.sugarloaf.com/sustainability.
Athletes may contact trailrun@xterraplanet.com with any inquiries related to the event and race information. For on-site assistance and information please go to the expo area in Sugarloaf Village.
Contact number for Sugarloaf:
General assistance: 1-800-843-5623
Sugarloaf Hotel: 844-209-2979
Public Safety/Lost and Found: 207-237-6861
XTERRA is honored to be working with Teens to Trails as our beneficiary partner. Teens to Trails is a non-profit with a mission to connect Maine teens to life-changing outdoor experiences. Research shows that spending time outdoors offers many positive benefits to our mental and physical health and Teens to Trails is committed to improving the whole body health of Maine teens by engaging them in fun, inclusive outdoor experiences.
Working with local schools and community recreation departments, Teens to Trails provides adult and student leaders with training, financial support, and the reliable resources they need to start and sustain an exciting Outdoor Club.
Teens to Trails will be part of the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship weekend festival, so stop by and say hello. Find out ways you can help Maine teens gain the benefits of spending time outdoors by visiting https://teenstotrails.org/. #lifehappensoutside