About
Seven Sisters Trail Race was first run in 1991. It has always donated all net proceeds to the Friends of the Mt. Holyoke Range, a nonprofit organization that helps the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) purchase, preserve, and steward land in the Mt. Holyoke Range. In addition, the Friends also has numerous programs that promote the Range, like their Summit House Concert Series. Since Seven Sisters’ first edition, the race has donated more than $100,000 to the Friends.
Seven Sisters is possible thanks to the efforts of DCR staff. Their employees, with support from volunteers and staff at the Appalachian Mountain Club, maintain the section of the New England National Scenic Trail (NET), also known as the Metacomet-Monadnock Trail, where the race takes place. In addition to these maintenance efforts, DCR offers expertise and assistance the day of the event. Along with many community partners and volunteers, DCR offers important support to Seven Sisters runners and race coordinators. It is thanks to the DCR’s year-round land stewardship that the race can take place on the Mt. Holyoke Range.
Event Policy
The 7 Sisters Trail Race is a Beast Coast Trail Running event. For more information on Equity and Inclusion, and Environmental Policy, please read the Beast Coast Trail Running Event Policy.
The Course
The race starts on a spur trail on Military Rd near the Notch Visitor Center in South Amherst. It quickly joins the NET due west, following the ridgeline to Old Mountain Road in Hadley, and then retraces the same route back to Route 116. The singletrack trail is marked with white, rectangular blazes. A map of the course and surrounding trails can be found here.
Water Stops
You are required to carry your own water. There are 2 staffed water stops for refilling your hydration system at roughly miles 2 and 4 on the way out, and the same stops are at miles 8 and 10 on the way back. The turnaround at mile 6 is staffed and offers water, fruit, gels, and other goodies. This a cup-less race. As trail runners, we seek to protect our natural resources.
Time Limit
While outbound, runners must reach the turn-around in 2.5hrs; and reach the Summit House while inbound in 3hrs. Anyone not making those cutoffs will be removed from the race. Data shows that the second half is slower for just about all runners–it is uphill coming back.
Awards
Awards will be given to Top Three Overall finishers and the Top Runner in each age group (under 29, 30-39, 40-49. 50-59, 60+) in the male and female categories.
Post-race Refreshments
Pizza, fruits, cookies and beverages will be available.
Parking
Parking opens at 7am on race day. There is limited parking at the Bunker lot. Please consider carpooling to the race. The Bunker lot closes at 2pm. All vehicles must be out of the Bunker lot by 2pm.
Race day bib pick-up
Starts at 7:00am and open until 8:00am on race day. The pickup tent is near the start/finish area off Military Road in Amherst, MA.
Waitlist
Due to trail considerations and permitting requirements, the race is capped at 500 runners. Since race demand has continued to grow in recent years, we started a waitlist for those who wish to register after this cap has been reached. When a spot becomes available, the first person on the waitlist will be automatically placed in the race and their credit card will be charged. If you are on the waitlist and no longer wish to race, it is your responsibility to notify the registrar to be removed from the waitlist.