We, as endurance athletes, are a complex bunch. We want to race hard, and see results. We love compare our wattage, our gear, our training, and tracking progress. But we also like to have FUN, especially in beautiful places!

Mountain Epic is a concept event designed to appeal to the most hard-core of athletes who want an anaerobic-fest, and the most low-key aspiring athletes who want to enjoy the mountains at the best time of the year. Whoever you are and whatever your goals, Mountain Epic promises to inspire and challenge you.

What makes it special?

Take a traditional sport - running - put it in an unusual (and stunning) location, add some unique elements (The Checkpoint, the lift, the mudpit) and a huge party at the finish, and what do you get? Mountain Epic! Its like no other trail running race around - get dressed up, challenge your friends, make a relay, and get ready to have a blast. Mountain Epic is all about celebrating the mountain culture, so show us what that means to you!

Who can participate?

Anybody! Mountain Epic is designed to appeal to athletes of all abilities. However, it is a lifestyle event, so there are things that you will see and do that aren't the same as traditional trail running races. The goal is to push your limits, but also to truly appreciate the fantastic natural surroundings. It is critical that you sign up with the right attitude - this isn't the Western States 100-miler!

What do I need to do to train?

If you can run (or even just hike), you are well on your way to being ready for Mountain Epic. We recommend that you practice at least once on technical terrain (narrow path with rocks, roots, etc), so that you have a sense of how to navigate on trails. If you are doing the ascent, you should train on hills, to get used to pushing your upper aerobic systems and to train the right muscles. If you are desceding, you should practice running downhills, mostly to prepare your quads for the burn! The course is approximately 4 miles and will take most athletes between 45 minutes and 1 hour.

What is the terrain/course like?

The Mountain Epic course takes you over a wide variety of trails and terrains. You should be prepared to run on single-track mountain bike trails, wide gravel access roads, steep rocky pitches, grassy ski trails, and soft dirt hiking paths. Many areas have roots and/or rocks that you should be aware of. The course will be well marked and staffed with volunteers at key spots. There are aid stations every mile and a well-stocked checkpoint at the top.

What kind of race support will there be?

The Mountain Epic will be well staffed with volunteers and medical professionals. Any issues that come up on the course can be dealt with by Sunday River at their lodge. There will be ATVs throughout the route, prepared to respond to any problems that arise. If you have specific medical concerns that you would like to discuss with race management, please contact nicole@tri-maine.com.

How do I sign up and what happens after I do?

Signing up is easy - just click on the registration link and either do it online through Active.com or print out a paper form and mail it in. You can also stop by Tri-Maine's shop to sign up in person with check, cash or credit card. Once you have registered, you will receive a confirmation e-mail from us. You will then receive an athlete guide via e-mail with specific information about the race weekend. You will be able to pick up your number and goodie bag on Saturday, October 11th or on Sunday, October 12th before the race.