Madison’s trail-running scene has found a new star: Divine, a 3.5-mile loop around the historic Holy Hill Catholic Basilica in Isthmus, is now drawing elite athletes and weekend warriors alike for its uniquely challenging terrain. Carved by ancient glacial sediment—some of the most rugged and rewarding in Wisconsin—this route has quietly earned a reputation as a must-run for those seeking elevation, technical footing, and panoramic views of Lake Mendota. What makes Divine stand out isn’t just the landscape, but the way it tests runners’ adaptability, blending steep climbs with loose, root-strewn descents that demand precision.
The trail, maintained by volunteers and overseen by the Madison Parks Division, has become a proving ground for local and regional runners. According to the Madison Running Association, participation in organized races on the Divine loop has surged by 40% over the past two years, with events like the Isthmus Hill Climb attracting competitors from as far as Illinois and Minnesota. The route’s popularity isn’t just a Madison phenomenon—it’s part of a broader trend of Wisconsin’s glacial trails gaining national attention for their raw, untamed appeal.
At the heart of Divine’s allure is its geological history. The sediment left by the Green Bay Lobe of the Wisconsin Glacier—deposited roughly 12,000 years ago—creates a trail surface that’s both unpredictable and exhilarating. Unlike the packed dirt of urban paths, the loose gravel and occasional rock outcrops force runners to adjust their stride constantly. “It’s not a trail you can zone out on,” says Eli Carter, a two-time Isthmus Hill Climb champion and local running coach. “Every step is a decision.” Carter, who has trained elite athletes on the route, notes that the combination of elevation gain—nearly 600 feet over the loop—and the trail’s technical sections makes it a favorite for those preparing for races like the Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago Marathon.
Why Runners Are Obsessed with Divine’s Terrain
The Divine loop isn’t just about the challenge—it’s about the setting. The trail winds through a mix of open meadows, dense woodland, and the basilica’s sacred grounds, offering runners a shifting backdrop of natural beauty and architectural grandeur. The basilica itself, a National Historic Landmark, serves as a focal point for many runners, who often pause to admire its Byzantine-style domes before tackling the final ascent. “There’s a spiritual quality to running here,” says Maria Rodriguez, a marathoner who completed the loop last month. “You’re moving through history with every step.”
For those new to the trail, the key is preparation. The Madison Parks Division recommends checking the weekly trail conditions—especially after rain, when the loose sediment can turn treacherous. Trail shoes with aggressive treads are a must, and runners are advised to carry water, as shaded sections can be cooler than the surrounding landscape. Despite its reputation, the trail is accessible to all skill levels, with shorter segments available for walkers and joggers.
Just crushed the Divine loop at Holy Hill—600ft of elevation in 3.5 miles, and every step was worth it. 🏔️💨 #MadisonRunning #TrailRunning
— @RunWithDivine (https://twitter.com/RunWithDivine)
Community and Competition: The Rise of Isthmus Hill Climb
The Divine loop’s profile has been elevated by the Isthmus Hill Climb, an annual race that has become a staple of Madison’s running calendar. First held in 2018, the event now draws over 300 participants each year, with a separate category for trail runners tackling the full Divine loop. The race’s organizer, Jake Reynolds, credits the trail’s unique character for its growing popularity. “It’s not just about speed—it’s about connection,” Reynolds says. “Runners here talk about the trail like it’s a character in their story.”
This year’s event, scheduled for September 14, promises to be the largest yet, with a new “Divine Challenge” category for runners aiming to complete the loop under 30 minutes. Registration is open, and organizers expect demand to outpace last year’s numbers by 15% based on early sign-ups. The event also includes a family-friendly 5K on a modified section of the trail, ensuring accessibility for all ages.
What’s Next for Divine and Isthmus?
Looking ahead, the Divine loop and Isthmus Hill Climb are poised to become even more integral to Wisconsin’s trail-running community. The Madison Parks Division has announced plans to expand trailhead amenities, including a new water refill station and shaded rest areas, with construction set to begin next spring. Meanwhile, local running clubs are pushing for the Divine loop to be included in the Wisconsin State Trails System, which would provide additional funding for maintenance and signage.
For now, runners are encouraged to explore the loop on their own terms—whether for a solo training session, a group run, or a race-day push. The trail’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to challenge, inspire, and connect runners to both the land and the community that cherishes it.
Have you run the Divine loop? Share your experiences or tips in the comments—and tag us in your trail photos with #DivineAtHolyHill. For those planning to tackle the Isthmus Hill Climb, registration closes August 15, so mark your calendars.
