Sunday, July 16, 2023 • Warrensburg, NY • Course Map
It’s all in the name: these races are not for the faint of heart. However, if you love sprawling mountain views, steep climbs up (and down!) back roads, and a morning spent running in the wilderness, the Froggy Five Mile and Hard as Hell Half are for you.
The Froggy Five Mile was established in 2008 as a capstone challenge as part of the Albany, NY-based ARE Event Productions’ annual Trail Running Camp, hosted each year for fitness enthusiasts in New York’s Capital Region and beyond.
The Hard as Hell Half, added to the lineup in 2020, is “among the hardest half marathons you ever run that is not on trail.” The terrain is composed predominantly of dirt roads, with some paved sections.
Featuring nearly 1,400 feet of elevation gain in the half (and 900 feet in the 5 mile), organizers warn that these races are best suited to those with previous Adirondack mountain running or hiking experiences.
Departing from the start/finish line at Dippikill Wilderness Retreat, the half marathon course begins with a sharp 2.25-mile dirt road descent. Runners then tackle the paved 2.75-mile section of the course before looping around for the brutal climb back toward the start/finish line.
There, the second leg of the race begins, as runners drop down for an out-and-back section along Glen Creek. The final mile, organizers claim, “may very well break your spirit – but crossing the finish line will make it all worth it!”
Photos by ARE Event Productions
Take Note
Importantly, both races are cupless events. Bottle refills are available at key points on the course—and you’ll pass your car at the start/finish line, if you want to grab your own aid items—but participants should come prepared with their own bottles.
Please also note that the half marathon is not suitable for walkers. Runners must be able to maintain a 13:00 pace or better in order to complete the course within 2:50:00.
Race Weather & Climate
Nestled in the Adirondack mountains, Warrensburg, NY, typically experiences relatively mild weather in July, with average temperatures ranging from 58°F to 78°F.
Past Results
Course Map
See the race course map for the Hard as Hell Half Marathon here.
Starting Time
- 8:30 AM for the half marathon
- 9:00 AM for the 5 mile
Fees
- $40-$60 for the Half Marathon
- $25-$40 for the 5 Mile
Discounts are available for ARE members.
Registration
To secure your spot in the 2023 running of the Froggy Five Mile and Hard as Hell Half, register at the official race website below.
Official Race Website
Comments
Ever run in the Froggy Five Mile or Hard as Hell Half Marathon? Share your impressions here, or post your review in the Comments below.
