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.

A trail event in Huntsville offering 5K and 10K distances as the first race of the Wild Thangs Trail Series, capped at 400 runners with cupless race policy, aid stations, packet pickup, course views and on-site pizza at the finish.

An overnight 50-mile loop race at Hoover Sports Park East where runners complete twenty 2.5-mile laps. A central aid station serves each lap, pacers are allowed, and finishers within 16 hours receive a custom belt buckle.

July 2026

Celebrate the 4th of July at Oak Mountain State Park with an 8.2 mile run through Central Alabama. Join the Birmingham Track Club for this long standing holiday tradition and enjoy beautiful park scenery.

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Huntsville with the certified Firecracker 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run. The event features a greenway course, finisher medals, and post-race home-baked food. Early registration includes a technical tank top.

A 7.4 mile trail run in Pelham, Alabama that reaches the King's Chair overlook on Double Oak Mountain; this is the third edition and includes race swag and a post-race party, with registration opening March 27, 2026.

Trail races of 4 and 8 miles at Monte Sano State Park with aid stations, a cupless policy, and finishing shirts and awards. The event is the second race in the Wild Thangs Trail Series and is limited to 400 runners.

Trail races at Oak Mountain State Park near Pelham, Alabama offering 9 and 18 mile routes with climbs through Double Oak Mountain and Peavine Gorge. Entry is limited to 300 runners and organizers highlight the need for hydration and electro..

August 2026

A 5‑mile and 10‑mile trail run at Monte Sano State Park with bluff views, creek crossings, aid stations, a cupless policy, and a 400-runner cap; part of the Wild Thangs Trail Series.

A night trail race at Frog Pond Overlook near Anniston, Alabama, on dirt and gravel forest roads. Distances range from a 10K out-and-back to a four-loop 100K; course direction alternates yearly and aid stations and handmade finisher amulets..

A trail ultramarathon in Columbus, GA offering 25K, 50K and 50 mile options along the Fall Line Trace and riverwalk. Aid stations serve Southern foods and field size is capped at 100 runners.

A trail 5k at Oak Mountain State Park featuring rugged terrain and significant elevation change. The event takes place on a Saturday in August. Registration is available.

Trail races at Oak Mountain State Park near Pelham, AL offering 20-mile and 10-mile courses on a difficult mountain route; runners must carry 15 to 20 oz of fluids and aid stations provide water and Tailwind.

Trail races of 10K and half marathon in Monte Sano State Park with scenic bluff views, multiple aid stations, a cupless policy, and a 400-runner cap. Participants receive a tri-blend shirt and finisher award.

September 2026

A point-to-point trail event in Sylacauga, AL offering 50-mile, 50K and 25K options along the Pinhoti Trail with ridge views, multiple aid stations, set time limits, and camping at Lake Howard.

A 5K and 10K trail race at Chewacla State Park in Auburn, Alabama on September 13, 2026, featuring wooded singletrack, aid stations, a race shirt, and overall awards; proceeds benefit Valley Rescue Mission.

A three-day trail festival in Columbus GA featuring a Night Time Vertical 5K, a 10 mile loop race, a Canicross 10 mile event, and a 50K run made of three laps of the 10 mile course.

Experience a unique 5K run through a scenic valley and a lit cavern in Alabama. Enjoy mountain views and a subterranean turn around point with constant cool temperatures.

Experience a family friendly fitness festival in Huntsville featuring a certified half marathon, a scenic 5K, and a kids fun run. Enjoy local food trucks, wellness vendors, and pop up fitness classes at Hays Farm.

Trail 5k and 10k at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, capped at 125 entrants. The event includes a pancake breakfast with mimosas, an optional Splash Challenge tubing the finish waterfall, and proceeds support preserve education.

October 2026

An elimination 50K at Oak Mountain State Park where competitors run a one-mile loop 31 times while carrying a 20 pound kettlebell. Lap time limits shorten as the race goes on; finishers of lap 31 earn medals and can win custom kettlebell aw..

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