Trail Running Calendar Alabama 2025-2026

Adventure-seekers looking for the best trail running experiences in Alabama should mark their calendars for a variety of events in 2025 and 2026. 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 Tranquility Trail Run, part of the Southeastern Trail Series, features 3-mile and 6-mile races set in the scenic Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, AL. The event is designed for both beginner and experienced runners, with the 3-mile course consisting of a single loop around Tranquility Lake, whi..

The Full Southeastern Trail Series is a popular running event held annually in the Birmingham area, designed to promote trail running and cater to both new and experienced runners. The series consists of six races, starting with shorter distances and gradually increasing in length and difficulty, cu..

Lost Falls is an exciting running event taking place at Desoto State Park in Fort Payne, Alabama, featuring a 10K and a Half Marathon. Set in a stunning 3,500+ acre park with over 30 miles of scenic trails, participants can enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls and creek crossings. The race emphasi..

The Rockin Choccolocco 50K and Half Marathon is an exciting annual running event taking place on April 26, 2025, in Heflin, Alabama. Participants can choose from a 50K ultra-marathon, a half marathon, a 10K, or a Kids Fun Run, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Pinhoti Trail. The courses fea..

May 2025

The Noccalula Falls Spring Trail Run, set in the scenic Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden, Alabama, features two main events: a 5-mile run and a half marathon. The course meanders through beautiful wooded trails, offering participants views of the surrounding landscape and highlights the new Black Cre..

The Run for Kids Challenge is a fundraising event held at Oak Mountain State Park, designed to support Smile-A-Mile, an organization dedicated to helping families affected by childhood cancer. This event features a 12-hour challenge and a 10K race, with participants completing a scenic 3.4-mile loop..

Muddy Crudd's Ultra Trail Party is an exciting running event taking place along the scenic banks of the Chattahoochee River in Valley, AL. This year marks the third edition of the event, featuring timed challenges such as 12-hour and 6-hour races for those looking to push their limits, as well as a..

The "Run to the MAX" for Mental Health is a 5k trail run and fun walk taking place at Noccalula Falls Black Creek Trails in Gadsden, Alabama, on May 10, 2025. This event aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and support the nonprofit organization MAXimizing Mental Health, Inc., which pr..

The Smoke Rise Trail Run, taking place at Blevins Gap Land Trust in Huntsville, AL, features a scenic course designed for both novice and experienced trail runners. Participants can choose from three distances: a Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K. The event emphasizes sustainability by being a "cupless rac..

The Race to the Tower Trail Run, taking place in Oneonta, AL, offers a thrilling challenge for runners of all levels on May 17, 2025. Participants can choose from various distances: 5K, 10K, 15K, and 20K, with the unique option to climb a tower for a finisher's medal. The course features a mix of pa..

The Do It In The Bush 5K is a trail running event organized by the Port City Pacers, taking place at Medal of Honor (Cottage Hill) Park in Mobile, Alabama. This event supports the Port City Pacers Scholarship Fund and features a cross-country course designed for participants of all ages. Awards are..

The Memorial Day Trail Run is an exciting running event taking place on May 25, 2025, at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, AL. Participants can choose between two challenging distances: 6 miles and 12 miles, featuring climbs to the highest point in the park. The race is part of the Southeastern Tra..

June 2025

The Race to the Lake in Pelham, Alabama, is a 10-mile trail running event designed to promote outdoor activity in a fun and inclusive environment. Organized by BUTS, the race features a challenging lollipop course with approximately 2,000 feet of vertical gain, showcasing some of Alabama's best sing..

The FARM Barn Burner is an exciting running event taking place in Birmingham, AL, featuring both a half marathon and a 10K race. Participants will enjoy scenic trails, including the Dunnavant Valley Greenway and various nature paths, with elevation gains of approximately 2000 feet for the half marat..

The Big Foot Trail Run, taking place on June 14, 2025, in Huntsville, AL, is the inaugural event of the Wild Thangs Trail Series. Participants can choose between a 5K and a 10K race, designed for both novice and experienced trail runners. The series features four races from June to August, offering..

Delirium is an exciting running event taking place in Anniston, AL, featuring two distances: a challenging 32K and a 15K. Participants will navigate four distinct trails, each requiring runners to check in at various checkpoints and collect colored wristbands to confirm completion. The 32K course in..

The Night Howler 50 is a unique overnight 50-mile running event taking place at Hoover Sports Park East in Hoover, Alabama. Unlike traditional races that start at sunrise, this race begins at sunset, challenging participants to navigate through the night. The course consists of a 2.5-mile loop, clea..

July 2025

The BTC Peavine Falls Run is a celebrated annual event held on July 4th in Oak Mountain State Park, Pelham, Alabama. This 8.2-mile race has become a local tradition, attracting participants who prefer a more intimate running experience compared to larger city races. The event offers a scenic course..

The Shiner Ridge Revival Trail Run is a 7.4-mile race set in Pelham, Alabama, celebrating its second year on July 4, 2025. Participants will run through the scenic trails of Double Oak Mountain, known for its historical significance during the prohibition era. The event culminates at King’s Chair, o..

The Jackalope Trail Run, part of the Wild Thangs Trail Series, takes place in Huntsville, AL, featuring 4-mile and 8-mile race options. This event is designed for both novice and experienced trail runners, offering a scenic course with bluff views, creek crossings, and waterfalls. Participants will..