Trail Running calendar near Gastonia 2026-2027

Experience a technical mountain race at Grandfather Mountain featuring fixed ropes and ladders. This 14 mile course climbs the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Range twice for a true Appalachian trail adventure.

A themed 5K and a 500 m kids run on August 22, 2026 at East Davidson High School in Thomasville, NC. The event uses a campus cross country course, encourages decade attire, and includes an award for best dressed.

A six hour trail running event in Enoree, South Carolina on August 29, 2026, organized by G.O.A.T. Trail Running, with limited published course and support details.

A women-only 5K obstacle mud run at Porter Farms in Concord, NC on August 30, 2026, featuring 18+ obstacles, ticketed standard and VIP packages, and volunteer roles with benefits; the event supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Timed 3, 6, and 12 hour races on the flat Thermal Belt Rail Trail in Forest City, NC with aid stations, on site medical support, relay options, and a 50 mile buckle for those finishing 50 miles within 12 hours.

An obstacle mud run at the Jerry Long Family YMCA with a 3.1-mile 5K for ages 7+ and a 1-mile Fun Run for all ages, supporting YMCA health programs and offering new medals for 2026.

A 12 hour trail running event at Kings Mountain State Park featuring a repeated 4.5 mile loop with lake and farm views. Aid station and drop bag access on each loop and organizers provide drinks while runners bring food.

A 13.1 miles trail race near Jones Gap State Park in Marietta SC, featuring 2,000 feet of elevation gain, single track trails, and views of Rainbow Falls. Two aid stations supply water and snacks and the event is cupless.

A sixth annual trail run at Shining Hope Farms in Conover, NC offering chip timed 5k and 10k distances on a 120 acre farm. The event honors veterans and first responders while raising funds for Saddles & Salutes scholarships.

An inaugural community race on the Ecusta Trail in Hendersonville, North Carolina on September 12, 2026. Features a timed 5K, a one mile fun run, finisher medals, awards and a virtual participation option.

Experience a scenic 10 mile run or hike around the shores of Lake Summit on packed gravel roads. Enjoy mountain views and a pancake breakfast at the finish line in the heart of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

XC Experience is a two lap 5k on the R S Central High School cross country course in Rutherfordton NC. The route uses packed dirt, grass and some pavement and finishes on the stadium track with multiple spectator viewing points.

Table Rock Ultras in Morganton, NC on September 19, 2026 offers 50K and 30K trail courses with summit miles, creek crossings, single track and gravel sections. Aid stations provide drinks and snacks but no cups so bring a bottle.

An elimination-style running event on a 1.25-1.5 mile farm loop near Huntersville, NC, scheduled for September 2026. Runners complete timed laps until one remains while the event supports pollinator habitat and clothing and shoe recycling.

Experience a scenic 8k trail race through the forests and wetlands of Lake Conestee Nature Park. Run or walk a five mile loop featuring natural trails and boardwalks with views of the lake and local wildlife.

A memorial trail event in Wilkesboro, North Carolina on September 26, 2026 offering timed 5K and 10K runs, an untimed 5K walk, and a virtual option. Chip timing and RFID-tagged bibs are used and proceeds support the American Cancer Society.

Flint's Fabulous 5K in Kannapolis on September 26, 2026 is a 5K run/walk supporting Leashes of Valor, which provides no-cost service dogs to post-9/11 veterans. Registration options include a shirt choice and optional donations for specific..

A community event at Milliken Arboretum featuring a 5K and a 1 Mile fun run to raise funds for children with cancer; includes race shirts, team awards, and age-group prizes.

Trail races at Salem Lake Marina feature a 30K, a 7-mile loop, and a 5K on a mostly shaded wooded trail, with water stops, packet pickup, post-race food and beer, and proceeds benefiting the Salem Lake Trail System.

Test your endurance on the technical hills of the Palmetto Trail during this 13.1 mile run or hike. Enjoy a custom medal and a full breakfast after finishing this scenic course through the Croft Passage.