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Ultra-runner Tara Dower smashes overall speed record on Vermont Long Trail, completing a stunning 273-mile journey in under 4 days

Last year, Dower broke the record for fastest completion of the Appalachian Trail.

Ultra runner Tara Dower breaks overall speed record on Vermont Long Trail: covers 273 miles in...
Ultra runner Tara Dower breaks overall speed record on Vermont Long Trail: covers 273 miles in under 4 days

Ultra-runner Tara Dower smashes overall speed record on Vermont Long Trail, completing a stunning 273-mile journey in under 4 days

Tara Dower Sets New Record on the Long Trail

Tara Dower has once again made history in the world of ultra running, setting a new overall supported fastest known time (FKT) on Vermont's Long Trail. On August 19, 2025, Dower completed the 272-mile trail in an impressive time of 3 days, 18 hours, and 29 minutes[1][2][3][4][5].

The Long Trail, constructed between 1910 and 1930, is the oldest continuous footpath in the US, with approximately 68,000 feet of vertical gain, running from the Canadian border to the Vermont-Massachusetts border[1][2][3]. This significant historical footpath, which inspired the creation of the Appalachian Trail, is known for its challenging terrain and long-distance footpath with significant elevation gain[1][2].

Dower's time for the Long Trail is three days, 18 hours, and 29 minutes, which, if confirmed, will beat Will "Sisyphus" Peterson's time by nearly three hours[1][2][3][4]. In 2024, Peterson set the previous overall supported FKT of 3 days, 21 hours, and 9 minutes[1][2][3][4].

Dower's performance on the Long Trail follows her impressive achievements in the ultra running community. In 2023, she set a new FKT on the 567-mile Colorado Trail, completing it in eight days[1]. In September 2024, she set a new overall speed record on the Appalachian Trail, with a time of 40 days, 18 hours, and 5 minutes[1][2][3].

Dower's preference for footwear remains the zero-drop approach of Utah-based brand Altra. During her record-breaking run on the Long Trail, she used the Altra Mont Blanc BOAs for long-distance races[1].

In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Dower has also demonstrated her commitment to giving back to the community. She completed a 273-mile trail to raise funds for the Green Mountain Club, surpassing her fundraising goal of $10,001[1].

Despite a setback at the Western States 100 in June, where she dropped out before the finish, Dower's latest ultra running record on Vermont's Long Trail is a testament to her resilience and determination. With this new record, she continues to demonstrate exceptional endurance on one of the toughest trails in the US.

[1] [Source] [2] [Source] [3] [Source] [4] [Source] [5] [Source]

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