New England Green River Marathon 2025

• Scenic course with a net 1,400-foot descent, ideal for personal bests and Boston qualifiers.
• Marathon runs from Marlboro, VT, to Greenfield, MA, featuring an 1870s covered bridge.
• Community-focused event supporting the Connecticut River Conservancy.
• Starts at Potash Hill, finishes at Greenfield Community College; no start-line parking.
• Course closes 1:30 p.m.; requires 14:53 min/mile pace.

The New England Green River Marathon is a point-to-point, net downhill course that starts in Marlboro, Vermont, and ends in Greenfield, Massachusetts. It features a scenic route that includes an 1870’s covered bridge and concludes with a finish-line celebration under maple trees at Greenfield Community College. The course has a net drop of 1,400 feet over a rolling, downhill terrain, which has helped many runners achieve personal best and Boston qualifying times. It is USATF-certified (Certification MA18003JK) and is ranked as the 17th fastest course in the nation and the fastest in New England by FindMyMarathon.com. The race is known for its beautiful scenery and challenging yet rewarding course.

Expect morning temperatures between 50-55°F (10-13°C), rising to mid 70s°F (23-24°C) by the finish. The course offers ample shade, though the last 5 miles are sunnier and more exposed. Be ready for potential rain showers and high humidity, which can affect performance, especially in the final stretch.

The New England Green River Marathon offers an exhilarating point-to-point journey from Marlboro College in Vermont to Greenfield Community College in Massachusetts. This net downhill course is primarily on packed dirt-and-gravel roads, with some pavement in the final stretch, leading runners through breathtaking landscapes alongside the Green River.

As you embark on this adventure, you'll enjoy sweeping views of lush forests and historic farms, with highlights like crossing an 1870s covered bridge at mile 10.1 and passing the iconic granite post marking the Vermont-Massachusetts state line at mile 13.3. The course’s challenging elevation profile includes notable climbs, such as the hill at mile 9.7, the aptly named "Airstream Hill" at mile 17, and the formidable "Heartbreak Hill" at mile 20.8.

This marathon is not just a race; it's a journey through some of New England's most picturesque and historically rich terrain. Whether you're tackling the varied surfaces or soaking in the serene beauty of the Green River Crib Dam, this marathon promises a memorable and rewarding experience.

Visiting Greenfield, Massachusetts, for the New England Green River Marathon offers more than just an athletic challenge; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the town's natural beauty and cultural richness. Nestled in the heart of New England, Greenfield is a charming destination with plenty to explore.

If your visit coincides with July, the Green River Festival is a must-attend event, celebrating music and arts with a vibrant atmosphere. For year-round entertainment, the Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center showcases local talent through live music, theater, and dance. Art enthusiasts will appreciate The Pushkin Gallery, which features works by regional artists. Don't miss the Greenfield Energy Park, a downtown greenspace with renewable energy exhibits and public art, or the panoramic views from Poet's Seat Tower in Rocky Mountain Park.

Cultural highlights abound in Greenfield. Explore the Crossroads Cultural District for diverse experiences, and visit the Historical Society of Greenfield to delve into the town's past. Bee Fest celebrates the legacy of Lorenzo Langstroth, the "Father of Modern Beekeeping," with bee-themed attractions, including unique downtown sculptures.

Extend your stay beyond the marathon to fully enjoy Greenfield's cultural and natural offerings. Whether you're exploring the local arts or taking in the scenic beauty, this Massachusetts gem promises a memorable experience.