Boyden Lake Half-Marathon 2025: Race for a Mission Through Maine’s Scenic Beauty

Writer: Gerry Caron | Mar 19, 2025 | 6 min read

Run for the Brave: The Inaugural Boyden Lake Half-Marathon

Lace up your running shoes and set your sights on Downeast Maine! On Sunday, April 6, 2025, the Bold Coast Runners and Pottle Tree Farm invite you to the inaugural Boyden Lake Half-Marathon. This isn’t just a race—it’s a high-energy mission to support our nation’s heroes.

Set in the tranquil landscapes of Perry, Maine, this 13.1-mile loop encircles the pristine waters of Boyden Lake. Whether you are a competitive runner, a steady walker, or a dedicated rucker, every step you take helps provide life-changing resources for disabled and recalibrated veterans.

🏃‍♂️ Choose Your Challenge: Race Categories

This event offers a variety of ways to participate, ensuring athletes of all levels can contribute to the cause:

• Half-Marathon (13.1 Miles): Challenge yourself on a scenic loop featuring quiet roads, peaceful forests, and glimpses of local wildlife like eagles and loons.

• The Ruck (13.1 or 5 Miles): Honor our veterans by carrying a weighted pack (minimum 35 lbs required).

• The Walk (2.5 or 5 Miles): A beautiful out-and-back experience perfect for enjoying the Downeast scenery at your own pace.

• The Relay (2 or 3 Persons): Split the 13.1-mile distance with teammates. Exchanges are at Kendall Lane and the Boyden Lake Boat Landing.

Course Highlight: The route starts and finishes at the Pottle Tree Farm, offering stunning views of rolling hills and open fields that capture the true essence of Maine.

🇺🇸 Racing for a Purpose: Supporting Our Veterans

All proceeds and fundraising efforts from the Boyden Lake Half-Marathon benefit three premier organizations dedicated to veteran wellness and recovery:

1. House in the Woods (Lee, ME): Founded by Paul and Dee House in memory of their son, Sgt. Joel A. House, this nonprofit provides free outdoor retreats—including hunting, fishing, and kayaking—to help active military and veterans heal through the power of nature.

2. The Travis Mills Foundation (Mt. Vernon, ME): Supports recalibrated veterans (post-9/11 veterans with life-changing physical injuries) and their families. Their world-class retreat offers adaptive activities like cycling and ropes courses to foster resilience and rest.

3. Achilles Freedom Team: An extension of Achilles International that provides wounded veterans with training and specialized adaptive equipment, such as hand-crank wheelchairs, to compete in mainstream marathons and reclaim an active lifestyle.

2025 Dedication: This year’s race is dedicated to Brian Manza, a Vietnam veteran and Baileyville native who was a beloved member of the Washington County running community.

📝 Event Details & Registration

• 📅 Date: Sunday, April 6, 2025

• 📍 Location: Pottle Tree Farm, South Meadow Rd, Perry, ME

• ⏰ Start Time: 9:00 AM EDT (Early start options available for those expecting to take over 3 hours).

• 🎟 Registration: $45 (Price increases on race day). Relay and Ruck categories vary.

• Registration Link: RunSignUp – Boyden Lake Half-Marathon

Contact Bold Coast Runners:

• Email: [email protected]

• Phone: (207) 214-2877

The Ultimate Sanctuary: Moose River Lookout

While you’re visiting the Downeast region for the race, find your permanent basecamp for adventure at Moose River Lookout in Rockwood. Nestled at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, our cabin is the premier HQ for your Highlands winter and spring exploration.

• Elite Trail Access: Direct backyard access to ITS66 for late-season snowmobiling or the first spring ATV runs.

• Riverside Luxury: Private dock on the Moose River—perfect for a morning cast or watching the sunrise over Mt. Kineo.

• Highlands Adventure: Minutes from the best fishing and sightseeing in the region.

Book Your Stay Today:

• Phone: 800-544-0300

• Email: [email protected]

• Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd, Rockwood, ME 04478

• Website: Moose River Lookout