The Loon Mountain Race: July 13th, 2025

Conquer the Climb: Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Loon Mountain Race

Each year during the month of July, Loon Mountain comes alive with the energy of one of the Northeast’s most challenging and iconic trail races: the Loon Mountain Race. Hosted by Six03 Endurance, this leg-burning, lung-busting event brings together elite mountain runners, local competitors, and trail enthusiasts for a race that’s as rewarding as it is steep.

Set for Sunday, July 13, 2025, this is not your typical 10K. The Loon Mountain Race is 6.03 miles of technical trail and ski slope with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain—including the infamous final climb: Upper Walking Boss, a brutal black diamond slope that pitches to nearly 40% grade.

What is the Loon Mountain Race?

The Loon Mountain Race is a USATF-certified mountain running challenge that takes runners up and across the slopes of Loon Mountain in Lincoln, New Hampshire. While the distance may not sound intimidating at first glance, the combination of elevation, terrain, and heat makes this course a true test of endurance and grit.

The race starts at the base of Loon Mountain and winds up through a mix of service roads, dirt paths, grassy ski slopes, and rocky terrain—all leading to a summit finish near the gondola at North Peak. Along the way, runners will battle significant elevation gain and technical footing, but the views and bragging rights are worth every step.

The Infamous Upper Walking Boss

The final stretch of the course is what most runners will remember long after the finish line: Upper Walking Boss. This section climbs straight up one of Loon’s steepest black diamond ski trails with a pitch that approaches 40%. It’s only about a kilometer long, but it’s the defining moment of the race.

And this year, there’s even more reason to push hard through this section. Thanks to the Upper Walking Boss Challenge presented by Northeast Delta Dental, a $1,500 prize purse will be split between the top three men and women who complete this segment the fastest:

– 1st place: $400

– 2nd place: $250

– 3rd place: $100

Timing mats at the base and top of Upper Walking Boss will track these segment times independently from your overall finish.

When, Where, and How to Sign Up

The 2025 Loon Mountain Race will take place on Sunday, July 13, at Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln, NH. The event kicks off early, with separate start times for men and women:

– 7:30 AM – Women & U20 Division

– 8:00 AM – Men’s Open Division

All participants should check in at the Governor Adams Lodge, where bib pickup opens at 6:00 AM on race day. Early bib pickup will also be available the day before, Saturday, July 12, from 3–6 PM at the same location.

Registration Details:

– Entry Fee: $60 (plus processing fees)

– Registration Deadline: July 4 at 11:59 PM ET – no race-day registration allowed

– Where to Register: six03endurance.com/loonmountainrace

– Note: You must sign the Loon Mountain Resort waiver online before bib pickup.

The post-race celebration will feature awards, refreshments, and a beer garden sponsored by Sam Adams at the Governor Adams Lodge. Runners can ride the gondola down from the summit or take a 1.5-mile trail back to the base.

Organizers encourage spectators to cheer from both the base area and the summit—gondola service opens at 7:30 AM, making it easy for friends and family to watch you finish your climb.

Cutoffs, Course Notes, and Final Tips

– Cutoff Time: Runners must reach the top of Bear Claw Extension (~mile 5.1) by 11:00 AM or be pulled from the course

– No Poles Allowed: Trekking poles are prohibited under USATF rules

– Hydration Stations: There are water stops along the route and hydration available at the summit

– Parking: Opens at 6:00 AM; carpooling is highly recommended

Ready to Take on the Mountains?

Whether you’re racing for the podium, competing in the Upper Walking Boss Challenge, or simply hoping to cross that finish line, the Loon Mountain Race is a true badge of honor for trail runners across New England and beyond.

Don’t wait—register now to secure your spot and start training for the climb of a lifetime. For more information or to sign up, visit six03endurance.com/loonmountainrace.

See you at the summit.