Trail Running Calendar Alabama 2026-2027

Adventure-seekers looking for the best trail running experiences in Alabama should mark their calendars for a variety of events in 2026 and 2027. 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.

Run the scenic Frozen Trash Panda at Monte Sano State Park with 10K and half marathon options across bluff views, creek crossings and waterfalls. Limited to 400 runners, entries include a tri blend shirt, finisher award and pizza at finish.

Start 2026 on the scenic Cahaba River trails with the New Years Resolution 6K Trail Run, featuring a RUCK division and riverside single track. Proceeds benefit Designs for Hope and awards honor overall and age group finishers.

Frozen Goat at Monte Sano State Park joins the Winter Wild Thangs Trail Series with 4 Mile, 15K and 30K courses featuring bluff views, creek crossings and waterfalls. Scenic trails and a cupless format promise a true trail challenge.

The Huntsville Slam is a four race endurance challenge across Huntsville from November to January. Finish all four races within the official time limits to claim a custom embroidered Lululemon finisher garment.

Tackle a rugged 50K through Monte Sano State Park and Huntsville Land Trust trails, featuring rocky single track, creek crossings and steep, upper body sections. Limited to 525 runners, every finisher gets a hand made slate.

Southern Freeze 50/50 is a winter urban run along the Chattahoochee Riverwalks in Columbus and Phenix City, starting and finishing at Scofflaw Brewing. Distances range from 25k to 100 miles with hearty aid station fare and finisher swag.

Tackle the Southern Singletrack Trail Series, four scenic trail races around Columbus, Georgia and east Alabama from Feb to Dec. Pick Short or Long series, run all four to compete for overall prizes and earn exclusive series swag.

February 2026

Run scenic single track around Lake Guntersville at Eagle Ridge, featuring bluff viewpoints and over 30 miles of trails. Choose from 50K, half marathon, or 5K in a friendly field capped at 350 runners.

Join the Ultra Donut Dash 5k at Oak Mountain State Park on Feb 7, 2026 for a scenic 3 mile loop with nearly 1,000 feet of climbing and three mandatory donut stops. Celebrate after with coffee, mimosas and a finisher shirt and mug.

White Plains Chocolate 5K Saturday Feb 7 2026 in Anniston invites runners to a scenic trail through community hills, starting and finishing at White Plains HS. Proceeds support the track teams and the race includes timing and awards.

Join the Alabama Nature Center on Feb 21 for the Critter Crawl 5K trail run and a one mile Yeti Dash with costume required for medal eligibility. Enjoy music, food, vendors and family friendly fun while supporting ANC education programs.

Choose a scenic 5K or 10K at Russell Crossroads near Lake Martin Alabama, on rustic sand clay and gravel roads past Kob's Knob to Heaven Hill. Finish by The Stables with a grits bar, live music, and support for Alexander City Schools.

Mount Cheaha 50K finishes atop Cheaha Mountain, sending runners 50K of mostly single track on the Pinhoti through Talladega National Forest. Expect scenic overlooks, creek crossings and waterfalls for a rugged, rewarding trail day.

March 2026

Join the ASF 5K in Hoover for a 5.56k course that loops through Black Creek Mountain Bike Park and finishes at Brocks Gap Brewery. Night trail sections and heavy divisions with 35 lb vests add a fun challenge with only 300 spots.

Celebrate the 20th Delano Park running in Decatur, AL with 50 Mile Solo, 12 Hour Solo or 12 Hour Relay on a USATF certified 1 mile unpaved loop. Mostly flat, tree lined laps with aid on course. Register by March 6, 2026.

Take on the Tranquility Trail Run in Oak Mountain State Park on scenic 3 and 6 mile single track routes. Tackle climbs and shaded woodlands, then celebrate at the finish in this lively Southeastern Trail Series stop.

Thunder Kiss at Double Oak Park near Birmingham on Mar 14, 2026 offers rugged single track with ridge running, rocks, roots and a waterfall. Multiple distances from 20 mile to 100 mile for climbers and ultrarunners by Zombie Trail Races.

Take on rugged Southern trails with 100 or 200 mile ultramarathons across Georgia and Alabama from March 18 to 22, 2026. Expect remote terrain, mandatory navigation gear and a gender specific technical shirt included.

Run Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama on single track trails with 50K, 25K, and 6 mile options. Courses climb to Double Oak Mountain and pass scenic Peavine Falls and Shackleford Point for a rugged, rewarding trail experience.

April 2026

Run the Lake Martin 50/50 on April 4, 2026 at Russell Lands in Alabama, a scenic 25 mile loop with rolling hills and rocky terrain. Choose the 50 mile two lap challenge or the 50K and enjoy well stocked aid stations.