The JFK 50 Mile is the oldest continuously run ultramarathon in the United States, first held in 1963 in Boonsboro, Maryland as part of President John F. Kennedy’s push to promote national physical fitness. The race follows a historic and scenic route that combines the rugged Appalachian Trail, the flat C&O Canal Towpath, and rolling country roads leading into Williamsport. Drawing more than a thousand participants each year, it attracts both elite ultrarunners and first-time ultramarathoners seeking a challenging yet iconic experience. The event is exclusively a 50-mile race, with no shorter or additional race distances offered. Its enduring popularity and rich tradition have made it a cornerstone of the American ultrarunning community.
Race
The JFK 50 Mile is a historic ultramarathon in Maryland that spans 50 miles across the Appalachian Trail, C&O Canal towpath, and rural roads. As the nation’s oldest 50-mile race, it challenges runners with a demanding mix of terrain and endurance over its full distance.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
How long is the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
Where does the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon take place?
What is the elevation gain of the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
How can I prepare for the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
How do I choose the right training plan for the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
The JFK 50 Mile is a historic ultramarathon in Maryland that spans 50 miles across the Appalachian Trail, C&O Canal towpath, and rural roads. As the nation’s oldest 50-mile race, it challenges runners with a demanding mix of terrain and endurance over its full distance.
The JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon is 80km long.
The JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon takes place in Boonsboro, Maryland, USA.
The JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon elevation gain is 1066 metres, which Runna classifies as a Flat race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
The JFK 50 Mile is a historic ultramarathon in Maryland that spans 50 miles across the Appalachian Trail, C&O Canal towpath, and rural roads. As the nation’s oldest 50-mile race, it challenges runners with a demanding mix of terrain and endurance over its full distance.
How long is the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
The JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon is 80km long.
Where does the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon take place?
The JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon takes place in Boonsboro, Maryland, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
The JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon elevation gain is 1066 metres, which Runna classifies as a Flat race.
How can I prepare for the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the JFK 50 Mile Ultramarathon?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by JFK 50 Mile or Cumberland Valley Athletic Club (CVAC). All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the JFK 50 Mile website.
