While some runs such as the People’s United Bank Vermont City Marathon take athletes through city streets and around downtown blocks, the Kingdom Run is all country. Now in its 12th year, this fundraiser for the Northeast Kingdom Spay-Neuter Program invites joggers and walkers to stretch their legs in a half marathon or a 5- or 10-K run/walk. The out-and-back dirt-road courses begin and end on the historic Irasburg Common and boast stunning views of Jay Peak, farm country and even a castle-style home. Still need convincing? Trees offer shade along much of the route, and there are no monster hills.
