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.

Blue Heron Hundreds is North Alabama’s ultra featuring 100-mile, 100K and 50K races at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge near Mooresville, Alabama. The course is a new 15.5-mile core loop run on soft crushed gravel and dirt roads through birding and wildflower viewing areas; the 100‑mile distance rep..

Chief Ladiga 100 Mile Trail Run takes place in Jacksonville, Alabama, along the Chief Ladiga Trail, described as the country’s longest paved trail. The event offers four distances: 100 miles, 50 miles, 50K, and a half marathon (13.1). Runners follow a fast, crew-friendly course: 50 miles out to Nath..

The Rockin Choccolocco event in Heflin, Alabama, features a 50K ultramarathon, half marathon, 10K, and a kids fun run, all held on the scenic Pinhoti Trail within the Talladega National Forest. The 50K is a point-to-point race starting near Greenleaf Dam and finishing at Cahulga Creek Park, showcasi..

May 2026

The Run For Kids Challenge will take place in Pelham on Saturday 2 May 2026. You can run between 10 and 12 kilometers.

Muddy Crudd's Ultra Trail Party is a fun, multi-distance trail running event held in Valley, Alabama, along the Chattahoochee River near Shawmut Airport. The program features 12-hour and 6-hour timed ultras and a 5K with a river-view trail feel. Participants can test endurance or enjoy a social 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 start and finish located at the Trussville Senior Citizens Center. The event take..

Race to the Tower Trail Run takes place at Palisades Park in Oneonta, Alabama, offering 5K, 10K, 15K and 20K distances. The course is half park road and half improved trail, with multiple loops for the longer distances. A key feature is the option to climb the tower for a finisher’s medal; a waiver..

The Memorial Day Trail Race takes place on Memorial Day Weekend, on Saturday, May 23. It is race number 3 of the Southeastern Trail Series. The event offers two distances: 6 mile (course measured at about 6.76 miles) 12 mile Timing is done with ankle-mounted HUTAGS. Registration opens December 1...

June 2026

The Night Howler 50 is a unique overnight 50-mile ultramarathon held at Hoover Sports Park East in Hoover, Alabama. Starting at sunset, runners tackle a 2.5-mile loop course featuring flat terrain with minor inclines, crossing a bridge over the Cahaba River and descending stairs into wooded trails...