The Froggy Five Mile was created in 2008 and historically held in conjunction with ARE Event Productions’ Trail Running Camp in Warrensburg, NY. For 2025, the event has moved to Beartown State Forest in Great Barrington, MA. Other than the change of location, the general scope remains the same. The …
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The Froggy Five Mile was created in 2008 and historically held in conjunction with ARE Event Productions’ Trail Running Camp in Warrensburg, NY. For 2025, the event has moved to Beartown State Forest in Great Barrington, MA. Other than the change of location, the general scope remains the same.
The Froggy Five Mile is a challenging trail run that sends you on an undulating loop generally circling Benedict Pond. It includes some gorgeous views of the Berkshires. Be prepared for some serious climbs on mostly single track trail.
The Hard as Hell Half Marathon debuted in 2020 and features about 1,600 feet of elevation GAIN that is 85% dirt roads/10% pavement/5% trail. You will NOT PR but you will definitely enjoy the serene backroads and low key atmosphere that made this a quick favorite among its participants.
Both races are DIFFICULT courses. A LOT of elevation change and the 5M has tough footing in many places. This is only for individuals who have EXPERIENCE on this type of terrain.
Course
Froggy Five Mile
Elevation Gain: ~950′
The course is quite varied, including easy and wide sections of trail, relentless uphill grinds on single-track mired in rocks and roots, and everything in between. IT IS HARD with horrific footing at times. ONLY for those with serious trail running/hiking experience.
Hard as Hell Half Marathon
Elevation Gain: ~1600′
This will probably be among the hardest half marathons you ever run that is not on trail. You will never get a break, and the first 4 miles will have you begging for mercy. You’ll then get a 7 mile break that will feel amazing, before the last ~2 miles that may very well break your spirit – but crossing the finish line will make it all worth it!
A post race BBQ awaits you! Along with an energetic race atmosphere with music and announcing to make you smile and entertain your spectators. It is otherwise a low-key event; there is not a physical item giveaway. There are no awards. You are welcome to jump in the pond after the race or relax in a nearby creek.
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Nice small hilly race in the woods
Race is hard, but not bad. 1500' elevation gain. Course is on gravel and rock road. Wear trail shoes, with rock plate to ease you comfort, and deeper tread. Water … MORE
Race is hard, but not bad. 1500′ elevation gain. Course is on gravel and rock road. Wear trail shoes, with rock plate to ease you comfort, and deeper tread. Water stops were great, food after was also. Shirt was nice, and optional. There is no medal. You can grab a tiny frog stuffed animal at check in with the race name on it.
There is a 5K that starts after the half so there is no mixing of people. Both races are related to the trail running camp that has been going on there the week before. So there are many runners that did the camp that are doing the race. Less than 100 people total for both races together and I may of been the only one from out of state. I met some nice people and enjoyed the challenge.
Not many bugs, only killed 2 deer flies. Course was mostly shaded and no spectators, except for the other runners families and the volunteers. No porta potties along the course, but lots of trees and only 1-2 cars on the road the whole time.