Trail Running Calendar Alabama 2024-2025

Adventure-seekers looking for the best trail running experiences in Alabama should mark their calendars for a variety of events in 2024 and 2025. These races will take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes. Each race is a unique experience, offering a variety of trails that will challenge and invigorate runners of all skill levels.

Near Birmingham, the trail running scene thrives. With a variety of landscapes from rolling hills to dense forests, it's a top destination for runners seeking diversity in their routes. Montgomery, steeped in history, also grants trail runners the chance to connect with nature along the serene paths of its nearby parks. Travel south to Mobile to experience trail running in a coastal setting, where the city’s geographic diversity and lush greenery add to the satisfaction of trail runners.

Further north, Huntsville's proximity to the Appalachian foothills provides a more rugged terrain for those seeking a challenge amidst the beauty of the Monte Sano State Park and its surrounding areas. Tuscaloosa, with trails located along the Black Warrior River, offers runners the delightful combination of water views and woodland landscapes. Lastly, in Hoover, the suburban settings give way to unexpected natural retreats.

The Skunk Ape Trail Run is part of the Wild Thangs Trail Series organized by RunningLane Events. The event takes place in Huntsville, AL, offering both 5-mile and 10-mile race options. The series aims to provide competitive and enjoyable trail running experiences for both new and experienced runners..

August 2024

"In The Heat Of The Night" is a unique night trail running event held at Frog Pond Overlook in Anniston, AL, featuring distances of 100K, 50K, 25K, and 10K. This loop course, surrounded by the scenic Talladega Forest and Pinhoti Trail, offers runners a challenging experience with varying elevation g..

The Ridge to Blazing Ridge Trail Race is a challenging trail run in Pelham, AL, offering both a 20-mile and 10-mile option. Runners must carry at least 15 to 20oz of water or Tailwind at the start to participate. The race is part of the Southeastern Trail Series and starts at the Redbud Pavilion nex..

The Chupacabra Trail Race, part of the Wild Thangs Trail Series, takes place at Monte Sano State Park in Huntsville, AL. This event features a 10K and a half marathon, catering to both novice and experienced trail runners. Participants can enjoy scenic views, creek crossings, and aid stations stocke..

The Blue Heron Hundreds is a premier running event taking place over Labor Day weekend at the scenic Wheeler Wildlife Refuge in Mooresville, Alabama. Participants can choose from multiple distances, including a 100-mile, 100K, 40-mile, and marathon, all set on soft crushed gravel and dirt roads. The..

The Singing River 5k & 10k is the inaugural running event benefiting the Singing River Trail, a planned 200+ mile greenway system in North Alabama. Set in Mooresville, AL, the race features scenic courses on packed dirt and gravel roads, offering a shaded and forgiving environment for runners of all..

September 2024

The Rebecca Mountain 50 Mile is an annual point-to-point trail race set in the scenic southern sections of the Appalachian Chain, taking place on September 7, 2024. Starting at Porters Gap and finishing at Lake Howard, the race features a challenging course that includes 31 miles of single track tra..

The Iron Turtle is a unique backyard ultra running event held at Lake Lurleen in Tuscaloosa, AL. Participants run a 4-mile loop every hour until they can no longer continue, with separate divisions for male and female competitors. The event emphasizes personal achievements, allowing runners to conti..

The Darter Dash is an annual running event hosted by the Birmingham Ultra Trail Society and Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, featuring both 5K and 10K races. Scheduled for September 14, 2024, the event is limited to 125 participants, ensuring an intimate and enjoyable experience. Runners will navigate ..

The Chewacla Cha Cha is a scenic trail race held at Chewacla State Park in Auburn, Alabama, featuring both 5K and 10K distances. This event, part of the Southern Singletrack Trail Series, aims to benefit the Valley Rescue Mission. Participants can enjoy beautiful rolling trails, with awards for over..

The Go for the Gold Run Fest is a two-day running event held in McMullen Cove, AL, featuring a variety of distances including a Kids 1 Mile Fun Run, 5K Road Race, and challenging 25K and 50K Trail Runs. The event aims to raise funds for childhood cancer research, with participants enjoying a scenic ..

October 2024

The Lake Yahou 50K is an exciting trail running event taking place at Lake Yahou in Anniston, AL, featuring three race distances: 50K, 10 miles, and 5.5 miles. The trails are primarily non-technical, single-track dirt, making them accessible for both new and experienced runners. Participants can enj..

The Kettlebell Kountdown is a unique trail run competition held at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama. Participants will run a one-mile loop while carrying a 20-pound kettlebell, with time limits for each lap that decrease throughout the day. The race format is an elimination style, with onl..

The Wade Mountain Marathon, held in Huntsville, AL, is North Alabama's only trail marathon, featuring a marathon, half marathon, and 10K options. Set against the backdrop of stunning fall foliage, this event promises a unique running experience on low-traffic trails. Participants receive a hooded sw..

The Halloween Havoc Half Marathon is a thrilling night race set in the scenic Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, AL. Scheduled for October 26, 2024, participants can choose between two distances: 13 miles and 6 miles. The course features a mix of challenging hills and smooth trails, with aid station..

The Shady Lady Half Marathon is part of the Heritage Area Hustle Race Series, taking place at Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville, AL. This inclusive event welcomes participants of all ages and backgrounds, with proceeds supporting the League of Outdoor Women. The race features well-maintained tra..

The Oak Park Challenge is an exciting 7-mile trail running event held in Huntsville, AL, featuring a challenging lollipop route that ascends and descends Monte Sano Mountain. With a course that is approximately 95% singletrack, it caters to both novice and experienced trail runners seeking a fun and..

November 2024

The Pinhoti 100 is an exciting trail running event taking place in Sylacauga, Alabama. This challenging race features a point-to-point course that spans 100 miles, starting in Heflin and culminating at Lake Howard on the Sylaward Trail. Runners will navigate the stunning landscapes of the Talladega ..

The Cathedral Caverns Trail Run, taking place at Cathedral Caverns State Park in Woodville, AL, features both 5K and 15K races designed for runners of all experience levels. The scenic course includes a unique segment that runs through a cave, providing a memorable experience. Participants will rece..

The BUTS Bearly Ultra is a trail running event held in Birmingham, AL, offering a 27-mile and a 13.5-mile course. The race is suitable for all levels of runners, from beginners to seasoned athletes. Participants will experience a variety of terrains, including old rail beds and single tracks, with s..