Delaware Trail Marathon (formerly the Triple Crown Trail Marath - Race Reviews

This was my first-ever trail marathon and I was very pleased to have completed it in the nation's first state. I found the course very doable for a road runner. Yes, there is some power-hiking involved (and wading through knee-deep creek crossings), but most of the course is easily traversable with street shoes. Nonetheless, I would suggest that road runners consider one extra layer of clothing. Much of the route is shaded and, because the path is replete with hazards (fallen trees, creek crossings, rocky and root-covered climbs), the slower pace means lower body temps than a typical road race. When I first got to the frigid creek crossing I momentarily considered taking off my running shoes before finally jumping in and getting the full trail experience. The water is less of an issue than the mud from the exit points; wet shoes dry but mud remains heavy. On my second pair of crossings I sought out alternate routes to get back on the trail. Also memorable was the single track above the creek, and the open meadows and series of trail moguls in the penultimate loop. And UDel coeds were serving up plenty of fun snacks at most water stops, including boiled potatoes, Swedish fish, donuts, M&Ms, pop tarts, cookies, pretzels, and potato chips. I don't train with any of the aforementioned foods but ended up eating potatoes on my second time around along with munching on some pop tarts. (Couldn't resist.) I have always found runners to be nice, but trail runners are even nicer - especially the leaders. I know this because the 10K group came charging at me on single track when I was nearly halfway done, and the front-runners all thanked me for standing aside in the forest. I wasn't terribly bothered by this, but a 50-stater within earshot mumbled, 'Poor planning.' Oh, keep the eyes on the ground. I met a runner who had tripped early in the 26.2 and was limping his way to the end, and I saw another gent turn to talk to his buddy while running in a narrow bike rut through a field only to scream out and grab his hammy after a misstep. Even tilting one's head back to take in fluids has to be done with care. The grill was closed when I finished (just shy of six hours) but I did manage to grab the last hamburger. Looked like quite a nice party when I passed by the pavilion at the halfway mark. Two small negatives: the medal is super-dinky, and there was no photographer at the marathon finish. For some reason the mid- and lower-priced Newark hotels all received negative reviews so I stayed in nearby Elkton, MD. Only a few more minutes away. My quads were pretty beat up (in some unusual places) post-race, but my knees and ankles and soles had no idea we all just did a marathon. The experience has me looking at trail shoes. Those darn trail dawgs might be on to something...

This was the first marathon in a back-to-back for the weekend, and I am very happy it was the first, if not, I'd probably still be in the woods, LOL. On the website, the RD tells 50 staters that this 'is the hard way' to get Delaware. Nonsense, I think this run was a perfect way to cross DE off my list, and I recommend everyone to do so. It was a challenge no doubt, but not my worse time, pretty much right in the middle of all my finishes. The course is very fun to run, and you will encounter a little bit of everything: Open medows, two track ORV trails, gravel roads, 12' wide deer paths, logs to jump, branches to duck, and of course the creek crossing (4X). With such a small field, I was alone a good deal of the time, but all the other runners were great! There are very steep inclines up the sides of hills that will kick your butt. I had to climb these (everyone else I saw did too), as opposed to running them, but boy were the downhills fun! My biggest complaint is that you will have runners coming right at you, and this can be very tricky. Especially when you are going up one of the steep hills, and other runners are flying down them, and the path is about a foot wide. We brushed by each other a few times, but there were no hard hits that I saw. John the race director was fantastic, as was the post-run spread. I finished with a time of 5:42:something and there was plenty of food still available. I'm sure that was the case for the people behind me as well. Overall a tough course (but not impossible), and very enjoyable. If you need DE for your 50, run this one!

Trail running should be on everyones list. My first trail marathon and it didn't disappoint. The Triple Crown is a must&the weather was perfect and the course was challenging, but delightful. Logistically everything was very convenient...getting to the start and parking was a snap. This race is a great value for your money! Fluid stations were plentiful and the volunteers manning them were awesome too&very enthusiastic bunch. The veggie burgers at the end was an extremely thoughtful gesture for those of us who don't eat flesh.

I've run a bunch of marathons but this was my first trail marathon (early in my quest for 50 states). It was AWESOME! Really well organized. Simple. A run for runners! Fun to cross the river...even 4 times! It is a 'real' trail, but a pretty easy gentle trail. It was a little surreal finishing my first loop as the 10k came charging toward me...but it was an interesting change of scenery. Kudos to the race organizer!

This was my 11th marathon, my slowest time, but by FAR MY FAVORITE marathon! The course was amazing - we crossed a stream 4 times (water over my knees!), and ran over several logs, lots of hills, rocky paths and through meadows. The runners were SO friendly; the camaraderie was great. I was running alone for a good portion of the race but would catch up with people or people would catch up with me along the course. Since we ran through the woods, there weren't too many spectators, but they were very enthusiastic at the finish line. This is definitely a small race - only 83 marathon runners. I never thought I would like a small marathon or a trail marathon. I LOVED this race! There were plenty of aid stations and the organization was fantastic, as was the post-race BBQ. Really SO amazing - I can't speak highly enough about the race!

This is one of the best trail marathons I've done. The course was beautiful, hilly, and full of tripping hazards. Isn't that why we run trails? I attribute my fresh-feeling legs to the brisk water crossings on the route. I never felt so good! It is a trail, so don't expect spectators, but the triple crown runners I encountered on my second loop were incredibly supportive and shouted encouragement as we crossed paths. There was plenty of water and snacks on the route and the tables were left well stocked after the volunteers left (after 4 hours). The after-race meal was complete with hot dogs, burgers and veggie burgers. For a small race, this was incredibly well put together.

This was a raw, rugged and no holds-barred trail race, from the 4 river crossings to the forced walk up 6 to 10 incredibly steep hillsides. The varying and beuatifully rugged terrain kept you engaged from gun to finish. Be aware if you are tall that there are numerous low-hanging trees/branches coupled with multiple trees lying across the trails. Miles of moguls will take their tolls on your knees, but the icy river helps.... This is a must-do, but be prepared to run much slower and fall in love with trail runs. Great organization and small group of participants made it very personable as well.

This event is why I run. The course was an A+, just perfect: enough of everything but not too much danger. Gliding through the forest on a pine needle carpet was glorious. The uphills and downhills were challenging enough, but not demoralizing. The weather was perfect (well done RD) and the dudes fishing trout in the river were even pleasant. The four creek crossings were a blast! They actually felt fantastic. I wanted to sit down on the 3rd and 4th trips but was having so much fun I did not want to stop. Everyone was so darn NORMAL - the way runners should be. I did not stay for the barbeque but everyone seemed to be having a ball when I left. Volunteers were excellent - especially the kids from U.D. Nice job Blue Hens. This was my 74th marathon and might just be my favorite. Home Run Trail Dawgs.

This was my first trail marathon, and only the third run I've ever done on trails. I was very nervous about it coming in, but it was very manageable. Organization was great, trails were well marked (even if I did manage to get a mile off course - my fault!), and the end-of-race BBQ was terrific. I think I'll run this again - even though DE is now "checked" in my quest for 50 states plus DC.

These people know how to put on a race. The organization was top notch. The trail is very scenic, challenging, well marked and so much fun. Being from out of state, I was amazed how the volunteers, other runners and even the bikers cheered me on. The aid stations were adequate and even the creek crossing was welcome. This is a peaceful race for runners who enjoy the outdoors and love running on trails.

Newark, Delaware is #46 in my ongoing quest for 50 states plus DC - and to date, the most satisfying! Race Director John states this is "the hard way" for 50 staters to run DE, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I went all the way to Wyoming and Oregon last year to make sure I had a couple of REAL trail marathons under my legs before attempting this one, and I have to say TRAIL DAWGS is the REAL THING!! The course is nearly all single track with minimal overlaps to hinder progress. The course is very well marked with bright colors, so if you can drive (i.e., follow traffic signs) you can't get lost on this course. Many thanks to the farmer who allowed us to run through his barnyard TWICE; the BOYSCOUTS cheered as we tore through their campsite, the few mountain bikers sharing the trail that morning were friendly and generous with right of way, and it is BEAUTIFUL out there. The 4 distinctly different levels of terrain went from woodland to riverbank to high meadow to overgrown, each with its own varying challenges, so PAY ATTENTION or you might end up in the stream when you didn't intend to be there! Many, many thanks to the WONDERFUL VOLUNTEERS who came out early and stayed late to assure the SUCCESS of this GREAT RACE in its 13th edition. So... 50 staters, are you ready for a true challenge ? THIS IS YOUR RACE !!!

I have run some torturous courses before. There is the start and finish of St. Malachi's run (both 2- and 5-miler) the start and finish of the Doggy Doo 5K, and of course the end of the Marine Corps Marathon where the .2 that actually get you are at the end. None of those compare to the Triple Crown Delaware Trail Marathon. I say this and tell you there could not have been a more perfect way to run a trail marathon in the First State. This course comprised three linked loops in White Clay Creek State Park. The trails were tough and technical. The hills were steep, endless, and at points were covered with obstacles. This was the most amazing race I have been on in a long time. The creek crossing was something I was worried about, but after the first of four, I was looking forward to the next three. The volunteers were amazing, with stuff like boiled potatoes, M&Ms (no W's), cookies, frozen towels, and of course a bunch of encouragement. I thought the course was well marked but I heard of people getting lost. One point is that it was marked with pie plates that were at head level. This is a problem with trail races. We are never looking that far up. Two real issues: the 10K, which started 2.5 hours after the marathon start, went in the opposite direction of the first loop. This caused for some near misses as we went head-long into each other. The other: what is up with the long-sleeve shirts, people? Overall, I couldn't be prouder of my 5:14 finish. My slowest marathon ever, but I earned every bit of it. Lets just call it a new PR.

The weather was excellent - cool in the woods and a bit warm in the meadows. Stream was easily crossed but is more like 80 feet-wide (not 80 yards-wide as race info said, thankfully!). The course is beautiful and a bit challenging. One area has many downed trees and logs across the trail, which required walking on my part. As a slower marathoner, it was disconcerting to be worried about mountain bikers coming around the bend towards me. I also encountered runners from the other races heading in my direction, but everyone was respectful and encouraging. Water stops were plentiful, with friendly, helpful volunteers and good snacks. It became self-serve as the day progressed, but that was no problem. You may well be running alone for long periods of time, so you do have to pay attention to trail markings. Even late in the day, there were still some people to cheer as you finish, hand you a nice medal (date on the medal would be nice, along with the word "marathon," for future reference). The grill remained open for a nice juicy burger. Overall, a nice trail marathon and very well organized race.

I ran the half-marathon. I had never run on a trail before, and it was great running through the woods. It was more challenging than I expected. You definitely will be going over downed trees that are over a foot thick. I enjoyed going through the river, which was probably two feet-deep at parts. I wore regular running shoes, and it turned out fine. I was dreading what it would be like going through the stream. The hills were more than I expected, especially the last couple miles on the first loop. But for this being my first race ever, and considering that I only trained on pavement, I finished the race and loved it!!! Next time I want to prepare better for the hills. I wore a Garmin, and it read that the half-marathon distance was 13.01 miles. Great atmosphere; great people! I want to do the full marathon next year!

I won it for the second year in a row. Great course, and a well organized race. In 2009, the marathoners started 10 minutes after the half-marathoners, and it was a BIG help. The five-minute gap in 2008 made it tough for the first 30 minutes of the race. Water support in 2009 were much improved over 2008. In 2008, I was the first person to the first aid stop on the second loop. I asked what position I was in and they told me I was last. LOL. Great food after the race. I highly recommend this race. However, the awards took place almost two hours after I finished. I didn't really want to hang around THAT long.

Great fun. The first loop is a bit crowded, what with the half-marathoners sharing. Passing was pretty easy, though, and everyone was very considerate. The day got hot (up over 80), but the volunteers at the water stops were great. The creek was wonderful; I wallowed like a pig in it the 4th time through, and it was that refreshing. No complaints, other than my time (worst ever) - but it was still good enough for a pretty high finish. This was great fun, and I will be back. Thanks!

You will find yourself awestruck, running solo, at peace in the woods, engulfed by the glory of nature. Everything about this marathon is special. Think of it as a marathon in a wooded obstacle course. There's a creek-crossing and great finish-line picnic. Super runners, organizers, and volunteers. I will definitely run it again and encourage others: DO IT!

The website for this small but well organized trail marathon does not do it justice. This is one of the best running experiences I have ever had. One point: I think the course is longer than 26.2. I ran the first half of this double-loop marathon at what felt like 1:50 pace, but the clock read "2:10." While the difficult, up-and-down, single-track trails definitely slowed me down, I can't imagine that I was that slow. The race website guarantees at least the distance you paid for; I would love to hear from anyone who ran it with a Garmin.

The race was very good, but please use a better way to give trail directions. A runner's motivation could be lost if the runner feels lost. Save some post-race food for marathoners. The refueling table and trail people were a big help. Much love to all. Thanks for the director (John) telling the truth about the race being hardcore. A runner will get stronger and smarter running this course.

This was a very difficult, hilly race. I ruined shoes, scratched up my legs and got a bee stuck in my shirt. That being said, I had a fantastic time! The race was wild. I do a lot of trail running and I run lots of marathons but that was the first time I combined them and ran a trail marathon. It was definitely more challenging and it was my worst time ever, but what a memorable route, fun volunteers and great organization. Crossing the river was the best part. It was a hot day and the water was rejuvenating. Surprisingly, it didn't bother me a bit to run in wet shoes. It's also for a good cause. I'd highly recommend it to others.

The Triple Crown Trail Marathon is held in one of the best trail systems in the Mid-Atlantic. The marathon consists of two loops - you can also enter a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon, or what has to be unique: the "Triple Crown" - 13.1 race plus 10K race plus 5K race (for a total of about 22 miles). There are staggered starts for the 10K and 5K to make this possible. The trail aid stations were good - the race had Gatorade at the stops, even after advertising that they didn't. Be prepared to cross White Clay Creek up to your knees (or waist, if it's been a wet year) four times. If I ran this race, I would probably improve the race shirt (long-sleeve, cotton). The design is quite ridiculous. The coffee mug is a nice touch! Other than that, it's an amazing race. Everything is runnable and smooth, except for the downed trees at the end of the loop. But those will probably be cleared up for next year's race, and new obstacles will await!

I enjoyed this marathon a lot. I usually race on roads, but like trail races, because of the faster recovery. This is a good race for the occasional trail racer, or for someone who wants to get into trail ultra racing, since it is an easy course (by trail racer standard). The race consists of 2 13.1 mile loops. You can pretty much run the whole race, with maybe the exception of one steep hill before the water-crossing. I definitely recommend shoes and tech socks that drain well, since you will cross a river 4 times. The aid stations were well stocked with all kinds of goodies. There were virtually no spectators, but that is normal for trail races (who else is crazy enough to jump over downed trees for fun on a Saturday morning). Barbecue was nice afterwards. It would have been nice to have at least the top 3 per age group (you just got another finisher medal) to give the middle of the pack some extra incentive to race. However, very pleasant experience, nice volunteers and fellow runners. Would run this one again.

A great trail marathon, with challenging hills, four river crossings, lots of logs and trees to navigate over and under, wonderful supportive volunteers, and varied terrain. If you like running through the woods, this is one for you!

Overall, I had a great experience running this marathon. This was my 5th Marathon and 1st trail marathon. I loved running the 26.2 miles out in the woods and fields in a serene environment drastically different from the big road races I have run in the past. The first loop of the 13.1 mile course was run with half-marathoners who started 5 minutes ahead of the full marathon. This made for a bit of a congested first 5-7 miles on single track trails. Once I got clear, things got a lot nicer. When I hit the end of the first loop, there was zero recognition or instruction for marathoners but a small sign telling me to go left and start my loop over again. This lack of direction was a bit odd, but I headed off on the next loop and found myself completely alone for the next hour or so. It was just incredible to be running a marathon without another person around for who knows how long. I loved the second loop! I passed one other person in the first ten miles of the second loop and was caught by 3 or 4 in the last mile. Seeing 5 other runners for the last 13.1 was crazy! The course was hilly, as expected. The hills were not extremely challenging but were harder the second time around and there were quite a few hills toward the end that were grueling. If you're not worried about time, and you shouldn't be for this one, you'll have a great time. I recorded my worst marathon time yet, but my highest finish: 18th. It was pretty cool to be "out-in-front" of a marathon pack, and still finish just over 4 hours. It is hard to worry about your time when at four points in the course you will have to walk through knee deep water for about 50 yards to cross a stream. This was interesting to say the least. It was a bit of a momentum killer and my shoes were soaked for the next few miles. But I got over it and my shoes dried out just in time to walk through the stream again. The only time this was enjoyable was at mile 23 when the excuse to walk for a minute was more than welcome! Pros: Beautiful course: you'll have to see for yourself, but it was awesome. No hassles: you can register on the morning of the race day and your hotel will be less than a few miles from the start where you can park your car right at the start and the finish! Refuel at the half way point: leave your water bottles or Gatorade in a cooler and grab it as you go off on your second loop. Bathrooms: Running in the woods for 26.2, the bathroom is all around you! Not sure if this is a stress reliever for anyone else, but not having to worry about finding a port-a-potty was really comforting to me. Post-race BBQ: Free BBQ afterwards that hit the spot. Spectator-friendly: If your supporters don't mind only seeing you once during the race and are looking forward to sitting out in a park for a few hours, this race is perfect for them too! Spectators: The lack of them was awesome! And one of the guys at the last water stop on the loop was really supportive. Cons: Not many, but some worth mentioning" Wet shoes: It made the race more interesting, I guess. Water stations: They were there, and I think I am just bitter that I picked up an empty cup as I started a hilly climb and didn't turn around to get another cup. Probably my fault, but I was tired and running a marathon! Overall, they were good, and actually had Gatorade which would have been nice to know since I opted to carry a bottle of Gatorade instead of water because that is what was advertised on the website. Final Words: Not sure what the other Delaware Marathon is like, and this one may be hard for 50 staters to get to, but it was well worth it. I had a blast! I hope it stays as enjoyable in the future.

I didn't run the marathon, but ran the same trail as the marathoners on the accompanying "triple crown"(a half, then a 10K, then a 5K). Scenery varied from wide trails with shaded trout streams (they were apparently biting), to wooded hillsides, to gentrified fields with trees in bloom everywhere. The club members ran with us, encouraging everyone with bottomless cheer and enthusiasm. The BBQ afterwards was a great event and even offered veggie burgers. The only improvement I'd suggest would be to better delineate the finishers' chute, as people were congregating there unawares. I used this marathon as an opportunity to get in one 22+ run before the marathon I am currently training for, and will have to come back and do the marathon another year. This being a small trail run, those who need spectators should probably look elsewhere, but you couldn't beat the cameraderie!

I did this marathon because I needed to get a marathon in Delaware and couldn't make the May 18th one. I have no regrets. It was well organized, with plenty of aid stations and good food and drinks. In addition, there were hamburgers and other goodies for the finish. I was one of the last 10 and the nice people were still there cooking hamburgers and serving us. The people were great. For someone wanting to do a marathon in Delaware, this would be a great choice. Not that it's a fast course, but who cares about finish time (especially when you're back in the race where I finish). Well done!

This was my 9th marathon and first trail marathon. The course was 2 loops of scenic trails. There was almost no running on roads and only a few short section in fields. The rest was in the woods. I think the course was well marked, but another runner and I were talking and missed one turn adding about 1.3 miles to our day. As the race website says, there was no charge for the extra miles. While this was my first trail marathon, it won't be my last. It was a great day.

This was the hardest race I have ever done and by far the hardest marathon. I was in so much pain the last 6 miles it was unreal. First trail marathon for me and by no way the last. The course was awesome. What sights. Even with struggling and my legs screaming in pain I still looked around at the hills and the trees in awe. Great, great race. Prima donnas, hill sissies and speed freaks need not apply. Check your ego at the door and enjoy the ride or else you'll miss out on a great event.

I will start with first stating I am a low mileage occasional runner. I ran the half marathon on an impulse, and it was the farthest I have run since high school X-C nearly 30 years ago. I do most of my running with my dog on the the trails on the east side of the course. My wife and I even chose our 2nd daughters name while taking a walk on the David English trail ( a.k.a. the Molly Trail)! With all that being said, I must say the run was the most fun I have ever had in a running event. I have never raced longer than a 5K so the half was quite a challenge, but the course, the mud and especially the people who put it together were exceptional. I will be looking forward to next year, and I may have to actually train for the run! Thanks for a great event!

Dude, ya gotta do this one... took two headers, covered in mud, runnin' through creeks, slippin', slidin' and runnin' all over the place.... Loved this race... great race!!!! Yeah, excellent BBQ after, and just an all-around great race. I wouldn't change a thing....

This is a marathon that you won't want to miss. Beautiful scenery, with single track trails that take you through woods and rolling fields, and across White Clay Creek (4 times). A very well marked course with plenty of aid stations and enthusiastic volunteers. Good post race barbeque too! T-shirts, mugs, and medals given to all marathon finishers. A few helpful comments...have a well marked, roped off area for marathoners to continue a smooth transition from loop one to loop two. Wasn't sure where to go after completing one loop. It was a bit chaotic around the barbeque area which was situated right in the middle of the marathoner's path. T-shirts could be made of a heavier cotton fabric. Could we put 'Delaware' somewhere on the T-shirt and mug? I am proud to have run in Delaware! Could we put 'marathon' on the medallion? Congratulations and thank you to the race director, his staff, and all of the volunteers for putting on a first rate race. Awesome! I will be back.

A very tough run, but loved it. Hills, mud, trees to jump/climb over, the creek/river.... Almost too much fun for an adult to handle. The organization was great, but wish the BBQ was around longer for us enjoying the trail more than others. I heard it was great also. Overall, BZ on a great time!

This was my first trail marathon (10th marathon overall), and if I had known how difficult the course was, I never would have gone. Now that I've completed the course, I'm so glad that I went! It was a challenging course - muddy and incredibly hilly, with technical trails and 4 stream crossings (water was knee-deep in places from the rain). This was a worthwhile adventure - definitely not a race to run for time, but a must-do to enjoy camaraderie, enthusiastic organizers, beautiful scenery, and a chance to push yourself in ways that a road-race just can't rival. So much fun... and a tasty post-race BBQ too. :o)

This was my 32nd marathon and one of the more fun ones. Doing Boston 2 weeks earlier and the up-and-down nature of the course made it more difficult but if you ever thought about running an off-road marathon, this is the one. What a perfect day weather-wise. Save your energy on the first loop with the half-marathon folks. Make sure you don't try to steeplechase over logs the last 10 miles as you'll fall for sure! It's great for a family to do as there is a playground by the finish and my wife ran the 5K.

This was my second Trail Dawgs Marathon. The first, a couple of years ago, was a soggy mess, and I had an absolute blast. This, in contrast, was probably the most lovely day ever in my 102 marathons to date. Dogwoods blooming, creek not too high, and a great day for a run.

This was my first half-marathon trail event, so I was a little unsure of what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised by the beauty and peace of the course. It was definitely a challenge for me not being a trail runner, but well worth the experience. The multiple creek crossings, navigating through low-hanging branches, stumbling over tree roots, and hopping over fallen trees give this course wonderful character that any trail and brave road runner would love. The organization could be a little better, but this is a small race, so don't expect a lot of signs and fanfare. There were plenty of aid stations and the few spectators were very encouraging, especially after a few miles of being at one with nature. Paying close attention to the trail markings is VERY important, as getting lost is very easy to do (one of my fellow runners got lost and ran 31 miles). Overall good experience.

Very well put on marathon. It is important to listen to the race directors instructions prior to this run. The course was very diverse, with trails in the woods, trails in the meadows, and some running through a cool creek. What more can you ask for?! What an experience. I will be back after I have run all 50 states.