Amy Dowley's Staging Area

Spectacular views on well-maintained trails. This one-and-only race in the Camden Hills State Park is a must.

Megunticook had all the elements I look for in an endurance event. There was a nice mix in the terrain and you got the chance to explore all parts of the park, leaving no stone unturned. The out and back sections offered opportunities to see other runners, cheer them on and feel the camaraderie. The aid stations were well-placed and at regular intervals throughout the race.

I was worried the night before about encountering a wet and slippy course, but even with the recent deluge, the trails were easy to navigate. Volunteers were strategically placed at important turns and turnarounds so I wasn’t left to guess. I would say that flagging was a bit sparse and I would recommend brighter colored tape in addition to actual flags on the ground so you don’t have to look up to know you’re on course. The race director had warned that there was a supply shortage on electrolyte mix and to pack your own, so I was pleasantly surprised to find electrolyte options at the aid stations along with other yummy snacks. I like to invest my money in good causes and I was happy to know that my race fee went to to the Coastal Mountain Search and Rescue that supported runners during the event as well as to the Camden Hills State Park that hosted.

Regarding travel logistics, a number of my friends camped in the park the night before, making it an easy roll-out-of-bed to the start line. I also talked to out-of-staters who planned to visit Acadia with their family after the event, incorporating the race into a fun vacation itinerary. I treated myself to a post-race feast near the Belfast waterfront, so don’t narrow your options to Camden venues that might be full on a Saturday night.