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 Huntsville Slam is an endurance challenge from the Huntsville Track Club that asks runners to complete four designated races between November and January. Complete all four to earn a custom embroidered Lululemon finisher garment.

February 2026

Run scenic single track trails and bluff overlooks around Guntersville State Park with options of 50K, half marathon, or 5K in a friendly field capped at 350. This cupless event offers multiple spectator vantage points and beautiful lake vi..

Run a certified 5K or 10K over scenic sand, clay and gravel roads around Lake Martin, starting and finishing at Russell Crossroads. Finish with a Grits Bar and live music and help support the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation.

Run a scenic point to point 50K through the Pinhoti, Skyway and Silent trails in Talladega National Forest, passing creeks, lakes and overlooks. Finish atop Cheaha Mountain at Cheaha State Park for sweeping views and a hard earned medal.

The Gambler is a lap style last runner standing on a 2 mile loop at Oak Mountain State Park where each lap must be finished in 40 minutes. Earn poker chips each lap to cash out or push on for the Last Man Standing Bucket and a 100 mile buck..

March 2026

Join the ASF 5K at Brocks Gap Brewing for a scenic loop through Black Creek Mountain Bike Park, including a dusk trail section that requires a headlamp. Limited to 300 runners, featuring heavy divisions with a 35 lb vest or ruck option.

Celebrate McClellan Madness fifth anniversary with timed 4 hour 25k and 8 hour 50k loops on scenic single track in Anniston. Enjoy staffed and self serve aid at the trailhead and a cupless community vibe.

Celebrate the 20th annual Delano Park ultra in Decatur AL March 7, 2026, with 50 mile and 12 hour solo and relay options on a USATF certified 1 mile unpaved loop. Aid, custom plaques, and shirts create a friendly, festival like race day vib..

Thunder Kiss on March 14 at Double Oak Park near Birmingham serves rugged single track with ridge running, rocks, roots and a waterfall. Choose 100 Mile, 100K or 20 Mile loops for a challenging, scenic trail day.

Test your endurance on the Southern States 200, a point to point 200 mile trail run along the Pinhoti Trail from Dalton, Georgia to the summit of Mount Cheaha. Rugged mountain terrain, hearty aid support and a 100 hour time limit.

Tackle rugged single track trails and big views at the Oak Mountain 50K and 25K in Oak Mountain State Park, Pelham AL on March 28, 2026. Expect challenging climbs, aid stations, a finisher medal and unforgettable scenery.

April 2026

Run scenic single track around Lake Martin near Alexander City, AL the first weekend of April 2026. Choose 100 mile, 50 mile, 50K or 27 mile distances on 25 mile loops with full aid station support; register by March 31.

Explore Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge near Mooresville Alabama with 100 Mile, 100K and 50K options on soft gravel and dirt roads through birding and wildflower areas. Proceeds benefit the refuge and every finisher earns a blue heron meda..

Run the scenic Chief Ladiga Trail from Jacksonville Alabama to Rockmart Georgia on April 11 2026 with races from a half marathon to 100 miles. Paved trail, frequent aid stations and a 32 hour cutoff welcome ultrarunners of all paces.

Run the fourth annual Singing River Runs in Mooresville AL on April 11, 2026 to support the planned 200 plus mile Singing River Trail. Choose 25K, 10K or 5K on shaded dirt and gravel riverfront routes with awards for all.

Run the scenic Pinhoti Trail through Talladega National Forest with 50K, 25K, 10K and a kids fun run finishing at Cahulga Creek Park. Expect single track, creek crossings and overlooks, plus aid stations and post race awards for finishers.

May 2026

Take on scenic trails at Oak Mountain State Park with a family friendly kids half, a 10K, or a 12 hour endurance challenge. Run lakeside loops, grab event swag, and support Smile A Mile as the event has raised over $100,000 for kids.

Run riverside at Muddy Crudd's Ultra Trail Party on May 9, 2026 at Shawmut Airport in Valley, AL along the Chattahoochee River. Options include 12 and 6 hour timed events, a 3.1 mile trail 5K, and the playful Ice Cream Mile where you eat fo..

Trussville Trail Run The Trussville Trail Run is set for Saturday, May 16, 2026. It is the 13th annual running of the event and is described as Alabama's only 6K trail run. The course is hosted at the Trussville Sports Complex, with both st..

Challenge yourself on scenic park roads and improved trails at Palisades Park. Choose 5K, 10K, 15K or 20K loop options, support OHS Cross Country, and enjoy tower views and a festive small town atmosphere.