Premier U.S. Mountain running series expands to two of New England’s rugged ski resorts.
Vermont Business Magazine The Cirque Series is breaking trail in New England with two new races this summer: Cannon Mountain in Franconia, New Hampshire (Saturday, June 7), and Killington Mountain in Killington, Vermont (Saturday, June 28). Known for its high-energy, scenic races on renowned ski mountains, the Cirque Series brings people together at their favorite winter destinations and helps support the year-round outdoor economies that power ski towns.
With over 4,200 runners expected in the 2025 season, Cirque is now the largest trail race series in the U.S. Along with Cannon and Killington, Cirque is also adding Crystal Mountain, Washington, to its national lineup of eight races this year. Community engagement and environmental stewardship are at the core of Cirque Series, with a portion of proceeds from each race supporting local trail conservation efforts and a nonprofit partner.
Cirque Series founder Julian Carr wasn’t always a trail runner; his roots are on the snow as a renowned big-mountain skier, X Games gold medalist, world record holder for the highest invert on skis, and appearances in seven Warren Miller films. After spending his winters chasing deep powder, Carr turned to mountain biking in the summer, until a 2013 trail run with his dog ignited a new passion. In 2015, he launched the Cirque Series to fill the void of mid-distance, high-alpine events that blend physical challenge with natural beauty summiting at least one peak in every race. Until now, Cirque has thrived in the Mountain West, Alaska and Europe. Its 2025 expansion to the East Coast marks a significant moment for New England’s booming trail scene, where the rugged terrain of the White and Green Mountains rivals the West in both difficulty and reverence.
"I started Cirque to create the kind of mountain races I was looking for, competitions that are both extremely fun and undeniably challenging, summiting peaks in most efficient manner possible, with a party waiting for you at the finish line," said Carr. "Bringing the series to the East Coast is especially meaningful. The terrain is raw, the community is passionate, and these mountains match the grit of the runners who call them home."
To support its New England debut, Cirque has partnered with Tom Hooper, founder of SIX03 Endurance, a New Hampshire-based trail running organization. Hooper, who manages some of the region’s most prestigious trail races including the Loon Mountain Race, Sunapee Scramble, and Kismet Cliff Run, is helping showcase the Cirque experience for East Coast athletes.
“Trail running is still in its infancy, and it’s been incredible to watch how the SIX03 Endurance community has helped shape its growth while putting New England on the map as a trail running hub,” said Hooper. “To enhance a sport that welcomes all paces and abilities, events like Cirque are uniquely positioned to develop as inclusive and deeply rewarding experiences for diverse athletes.”
The East Coast debut of the Cirque Series kicks off at Cannon Mountain, where runners will take on the demanding Kinsman Ridge Trail. This 6.7-mile course features a 3,386-foot vertical gain, ascending to the summit of Cannon Mountain. Known for its steep, technical terrain and sweeping views, the route offers runners a true test of endurance. Participants will be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Franconia Ridge and Willoughby Gap before descending back to the base for a line celebration. At Cannon, Cirque is teaming up with Granite Outdoor Alliance (GOA) to support New Hampshire’s outdoor economy and host an immersive “Rock City” vendor village featuring local brands.
Later in the month, the series heads to Killington Mountain for a 7.2-mile course featuring 3,133 feet of vertical. The course winds through alpine trails and ridgelines with spectacular views of the Green Mountains, high-fives at Cooper’s Cabin, and a fast, technical descent near Skye Peak. Like every Cirque race, the day ends with a festive party celebrating every runner’s effort and adventure.
The Cirque Series welcomes all ages and abilities, true to anyone who wants to challenge
their body and spirit. Ages 6 to 82 have raced - proving it's not about winning, it's about
showing up. For more information, visit https://www.cirqueseries.com.
ABOUT CIRQUE SERIES:
The Cirque Series is a premier mountain running race series featuring short-distance, high-elevation trail races at iconic ski resorts across the U.S. Known for its challenging terrain, scenic views, and community atmosphere, Cirque is now the largest trailing running event series in the country, with over 4,200 runners expected to participate in 2025.
ABOUT SIX03 ENDURANCE:
SIX03 Endurance enhances New Hampshire’s endurance community by bringing together fun, adventurous folks of all levels -from first-time 5K runners to Ironman finishers - for races, group runs, and special events.
Franconia, New Hampshire; April 30, 2025: The Cirque Series
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