Ghost Run
COME SUFFER WITH US
The Maine Event
Welcome to “The Maine Event”, a trail running experience crafted for the intrepid soul. This seven-day journey through Maine’s most challenging and magnificent landscapes is designed for those who seek adventure in its purest form. From the towering peak of Mt. Katahdin to the demanding terrains of the Bigelows and the unrelenting grind of the Moohusac Notch, prepare to test your limits.
Your expedition will be punctuated with days of intense trail running followed by necessary rest and recovery. Expect to be self-reliant but supported, carrying what you need but guided by our extensive planning. The days will be tough, the terrain unforgiving, but the reward lies in the achievement and the raw beauty of Maine’s wilderness.
Transportation, campsites, logistics, and most meals will be provided, along with the tools for navigation and tracking. This trip is for the experienced athlete who values the journey, tall stories, and memories of a lifetime.
Who Should Come? You if you’re ready. You must be okay with very hard terrain. You don’t need speed here you just need consistency. Everyone will be slow due to the terrain but its those that can take the abuse and march on that will succeed. You will also need to be comfortable with camping conditions, lots of rocks, animals, and traveling long distances with all the food required. We will help you with what is needed and techniques for success but the grit must come within.
General Itinerary Overview
Subject to minor changes
Day 1- Meet -Setup – Travel
- Arrival at Portland Maine
- Food stop
- Drive to destination
- Dinner
- Set up camp
- Gear Up
- Sleep
Day 2 – Mt. Katahdin – 10 Miles
- Choose between Knife’s Edge or the Saddle route to the summit
- Come down the AT route to Katahdin Spring campground.
- If you want bonus miles we can also pick up at Adol bridge or you can add several routes up top
- Dinner and drinks at campground
- Followed by tall stories of the day
- Sleep
Day 3 – Travel
- Wake by 8am
- Breakfast
- Drive to Kingfield, Maine and setup at campground.
- Lunch
- Will have a few options on this day to run, hike or massages will discus as a group
- Dinner at restaurant
- Head back to camp and prepare for a big day
- Sleep
Day 4 – Bigelow Traverse – 15 Miles
- Breakfast
- Drive to trailhead
- North trailhead drop off
- Hike/Run 15 Miles southern AT trailhead
- Dinner at campground
- Disbelief of what just happened
- Sleep of or with angels
Day 5 – Travel
- Wake by 8am
- Breakfast
- Drive to Bethel Maine and setup at campground.
- Lunch
- Will have a few options on this day as well. Possibly tubing down river. Extra cost
- Dinner at campground
- Prepare for the hardest upcoming day. You will need to upload a lot of food. Will have you organize this.
- Sleep
Day 6 – Mahoosuc – 31 Miles
- There are two options on this day. We can pull you out at about 8 miles in or you can do the entire Mahoosuc notch. Please keep in mind that it can take up to 24 hours to do the full 31 miles.
- Breakfast will be bars as we have to move quick
- There will be two wake times 3am with a trailhead arrival at 4am. Second is 6am with arrival around 7:30am
- Dinner will be given to the runner as they come in
- Sleep
Day 7 – Departure & Reflection
Pack up and head towards the airport with a stop for one final group meal, sealing the experience of the wilds of Maine in camaraderie and shared memories.
Cancellation Policy
Deposit: All deposits made for the trip are non-refundable as they secure your place on the retreat.
Cancellation by Participant:
Cancellations must be communicated in writing by the individual who completed the booking form. The effective date of cancellation will be the date the written notice is received.
If a cancellation is made within 90 days prior to the start of the retreat, the entire payment is non-refundable. If another participant is found to take your place, a refund may be considered at our discretion.
After submitting your written cancellation, it must be confirmed by Hardwin to be officially recognized.
Location
Maine
Date
8/19-8/25
Fee
$1,964*
Deposit is half the cost up front. Remaining is due 30 days before the event.
*Payment process will start once you have been approved.
What we Provide
- Transportation to all stated trailheads, camps, and airports.
- Camping spots
- Trip logistics and route planning
- Large duffel bag to carry all gear shipped ahead of time to participant,
- packing list
- Printed maps
- GPS files
- Breakfast – Day 2 – Day 3 – Day 4 – Day 5 – Day 6 – Day 7
- Dinner – Day 2 – Day 4 – Day 5 – Day 6
- Packaging of gear when needed due to time
- Images and videos
- Beer and mixers
- Cooking materials
- Water
- Electrolytes
- All permits and park entrance fees
What we do not provide
- Airfare
- Guides – although we might be on the trails with you this is an unguided trip. Runners must be able to take on navigation and all the trails within could throw at you.
- Any camping gear unless rented
- Travel insurance. You should get this
- Extra expenses due to a change in itinerary or in case of you having to shorten the day or trip as a whole (including personal return trips to the airport/next destination/etc.)
Required Gear
- A small one or two man tent or bivy. The smaller the tent the better as we have limited space. If you have someone coming with you could share the tent to save space. We also rent tents that will save you a ton on space with your gear.
- A filtered water bottle – Our favorite is the – Salomon or Katahdhin. This is must in Maine as you will go long distances without water from the crew.
- Your duffle bag that is sent to you before the trip. This will be where all your stuff is carried.
- Cell phone.
- Headlamp with extra battery or two headlamps
- Three extra water bottles besides the filter or a large camel pouch equal in capacity
- Software that supports GPX files. Our favorite for this particular endeavor is Gaia GPS. You can also download the maps here for offline use.
- Wind breaker jacket. Our favorite is the Houdini
- Puffy coat for night time
Weather Policy
WEATHER During the late summer months, the weather is typically pleasant; however, it is crucial to note that mountain weather can be unpredictable and may change rapidly. Trail conditions can shift drastically within hours. Consequently, hiking routes may be adjusted to ensure the safety of all participants. It’s important to add that while runners have the discretion to continue under adverse weather conditions, this decision must not endanger the crew or other individuals. Safety remains our top priority, and we reserve the right to alter plans as necessary to maintain a secure environment for everyone.