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Madeline Harms: Mom, Professor, and Ultramarathoner Joins SHTA Board.

December 22, 2025

Madeline running by Bean and Bear during the Superior 100. Photo by Howie Stern.

Madeline is a college professor, avid runner, and mom to a 4-year-old daughter. She has been intrigued and somewhat intimidated by the Superior Hiking Trail since she first set foot on it around 10 years ago. In 2024, she conquered her fears and ran the Superior 100 trail race, which only deepened her connection to the SHT. She joined the SHTA board in 2025 hoping to contribute to outreach and fundraising efforts through her knowledge of education and human psychology. She is currently serving on the Fund Development and 40th Anniversary Committees.

What is your connection to the Superior Hiking Trail?

“I have primarily connected to the SHT through running and hiking. Since moving to Duluth, I have also been able to engage in some volunteer trail work, which has been very rewarding.”

Madeline’s volunteer crew working on the Bean and Bear Lakes Loop reroute in October 2025.

Why is the SHT important to you?

“Now more than ever it seems important to preserve and protect our public lands so we can continue to have those wild spaces in nature. I think the SHT is a unique and underrated trail, it doesn’t get the same attention as the Appalachian or John Muir, but I think anyone who spends some time on it can really appreciate what it has to offer (and it’s difficulty!).”

Do you have a most special or deeply impactful SHT moment?

“Running through Section 13 during the Superior 100 mile. The sun was in that low point in the evening where it’s just beautiful, and it’s one of my favorite sections of the Trail. I was even lucky enough to get my photo taken by Howie Stern!”

Madeline tackling Section 13 during the Superior 100 trail race. Photo by Howie Stern.

Why did you decide to become an SHTA Board Member?

“I had been thinking about it for a while because I felt very connected to the SHT after moving to Duluth and running the 100-mile. I wanted to contribute in a more consistent and sustained way. I talked to my friend Mike Ward (former board member) about it, and he convinced me to apply.”

What is your vision for the future of the SHT?

“I hope we can get more people from diverse backgrounds who might not initially consider themselves hikers or outdoorsy types to experience the SHT. The SHT is neat because you never have to go too far without being close to some form of civilization. The Trail is really accessible in that way.”

Welcome to the SHTA Board of Directors, Madeline! We’re grateful you chose to contribute your valuable time, experience, and knowledge to guiding our work of protecting and maintaining the Superior Hiking Trail for all.