Trail Running calendar near Cary 2025-2026

Hit the trails at Fort Bragg for the JSO 10K and 5K Walk, a rugged off road course over tank trails, mud and sand offering a true outdoor challenge. Includes certified 10K timing, commemorative coins and a lively community vibe.

Take on The Hybrid 8K in Danville at Anglers Park, a scenic mix of trail and road that winds along the Riverwalk. Run solo or join a four person team and celebrate at a friendly post race gathering back at the park.

Join the Wings of Hope 5K at FirstHealth Fitness Center in Pinehurst on November 8 for a family friendly run and walk supporting the FirstHealth Cancer CARE Fund. All race proceeds support local patients and survivors.

Run rolling trails through hardwood forest at the 16th Annual Camp Chestnut Ridge Trail Races in Efland NC on Nov 22, 2025, with 4 mile and 8 mile options and a 3 mile virtual race. Scenic, challenging trails and a friendly community vibe.

Celebrate Thanksgiving at the Birds of a Feather Trail Trot with scenic 2 Mile and 5K trail runs for timed racers and fun runners. Family friendly kids races, shirts, photos and donations support local food pantries.

Join the DPS Education Foundation Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day in Danville for a scenic 5K along the Dan River plus a children's fun run. Run or walk to support DPS students and teachers while enjoying the Riverwalk Trail.

Join Black Toenail Friday on November 28 for trail racing at Cane Creek Mountains in Snow Camp NC. Pick a 13.1 mile half or a 7.5 mile route, race in person or virtually and enjoy a long sleeve shirt, post race food and a finisher medal.

Take on the Derby 50K in Ellerbe North Carolina on Nov 29, a three loop counterclockwise course of rolling hills on asphalt and dirt. Finish with a community spaghetti meal and help support local causes.

Join Turkey Chase in Cary NC on Nov 29, 2025 with in person and virtual 5K, 10K and half plus kids stroller fun. Finishers get a medal and knit hat, RaceJoy live tracking keeps friends updated and awards add holiday excitement.

Run Briar Chapel's scenic forest trails in the Leftovers Trail Run with 5K and 10K routes featuring roots, rocks and short climbs. Pick a vintage tee and medal, enjoy a free kids treasure race, pro photos and post race food.

Join the Shakori 40 Running Festival, December 5-6, 2025 at Shakori Hills Community Art Center near Chapel Hill, for a scenic cross country course and multiple race options. Camp, enjoy live music, food, bonfires and craft beer while racing..

Run At The Rock on December 13, 2025 at Cedarock Park in Burlington features scenic trail 5K, 10K and half marathon courses through root and rock filled single track with rewarding climbs. Registration includes a race hoodie, finisher medal..

Kick off 2026 at Raven Rock State Park in Lillington NC with a scenic 5 mile run, 5 mile hike or a challenging 25K across rocky single and double track. Enjoy medals, local shirts, photos and warm food at the finish.

Join the Freedom Starts Here run in Pinehurst on January 10 to raise funds for Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge, a faith centered recovery program. Choose 10K, 5K or 1 mile, enjoy Reservoir Park trails, swag, medals and family friendly fun.

Enjoy scenic single track at the Little River Trail Runs on January 10, 2026, choosing from 10 mile or 7 kilometer courses with aid stations and friendly volunteers. All proceeds support park and trail upkeep, so every mile gives back.

Tackle trails and river crossings at the Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Trail Half Marathon and 5 Mile in Gibsonville NC on Jan 17, 2026, with hoodie, medal and post race food and beer. In person and virtual distances plus ruck entries.

Join the 35th Uwharrie Mountain Run Feb 7 2026 in Uwharrie National Forest. Choose 40 mile, 20 mile or 8 mile single track courses with rocky roots, creek crossings and aid stations, and earn handcrafted pottery finisher awards.

Join the Viking Dash at scenic Harris Lake County Park in New Hill, NC, with 5K and 10K trail options for beginners and seasoned runners. Finishers earn a striking Viking Longship medal and top finishers get cozy knit socks.

Join teams of two or four for the Occoneechee Speedway Relay on Feb 15, 2026 in Hillsborough NC, where runners loop the historic dirt track for 20 laps totaling about 13.5 miles. Expect chip timing, team awards, and a lively post race BBQ.

Run through scenic countryside at the Ellerbe Marathon and Half Marathon, a USATF certified loop that brings you back to town for a festive finish. Finishers get a custom medal, pottery wine cup, race shirt and a post race meal.