Trail Running calendar near Gastonia 2026-2027

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.

Experience a women only 5K mud run featuring over 18 obstacles at Porter Farms in Charlotte. Focus on teamwork and empowerment in a non competitive environment open to all women and girls from age 7.

Not A Sprint Ultra Races is a timed 3, 6 and 12 hour event on the flat Thermal Belt Rail Trail in Forest City, NC with aid stations, on site medical support, awards, and a 50 mile buckle for those who reach 50 miles in 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 run at Kings Mountain State Park on a 4.5 mile loop that passes lakes, creeks, farm scenery, and marked trails, with aid station access and provided fluids each loop.

Experience a 13.1 mile trail race through the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area featuring 2,000 feet of elevation gain and views of Rainbow Falls. This cup-less event explores the rugged single-track paths of Jones Gap State Park.

A sixth annual trail run at Shining Hope Farms in Conover offering 5k and 10k chip timed courses on a 120 acre farm. Proceeds support scholarships for the Saddles & Salutes program.

The inaugural Ecusta Trail Races in Hendersonville, North Carolina mark a community celebration of the new 19 mile Ecusta Trail, featuring short and mid distance races; final details are pending government approval.

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.

The XC Experience is a 5k cross-country run on the R-S Central High School course. The two-lap route features dirt trails, grass, and paved sections, finishing on the track. It offers awards for all ages and is part of a local race series.

Trail ultras in Morganton NC with 50K and 30K routes through Steele Creek Park. Courses include technical single-track, creek crossings, and summit access, with aid stations supplying drinks and basic foods.

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 community trail event in Wilkesboro on September 26, 2026 offering 5K and 10K timed runs, a 5K untimed walk, and a virtual option, with chip timing and proceeds supporting the American Cancer Society.

A community 5K in Kannapolis that raises funds and donations for Leashes of Valor to help provide fully trained service dogs at no cost to post-9/11 veterans. The event is dog friendly and offers shirt and no-shirt registration options.

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.

A trail running event at Rocky Branch Park with on-site and virtual 5K and 10K options; timing uses bib chips, participants receive a branded T-shirt and sticker, and proceeds support the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

The Last Wolf in Kings Mountain NC runs repeated 3.1 mile loops with time limits that cycle through 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60 minutes. Runners are eliminated for missing cutoffs and the final winner must complete a solo loop within the limit.

Experience a scenic 13.1 mile trail loop through Paris Mountain State Park featuring 2,300 feet of elevation gain. Run past tranquil lakes and waterfalls while enjoying panoramic summit views and vibrant fall foliage.

This trail event features a certified 5K run and a 2K walk across a 50-acre horse ranch in Gastonia, NC. A short Half-Pint run for kids 7 and under is also on the schedule. It's planned as a rain or shine event, with registration available..

The Zombie Run 5K in Morganton adds a thrilling twist to a standard race. Participants must navigate the course while keeping their flags away from roaming Zombies. A separate Family Fun Run and a festive after party with food and drinks co..