Trail Running calendar near Rutherfordton 2026-2027

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.

A roughly 5 mile ascent near West Jefferson, NC, gaining about 1600 feet to a summit above 4600 feet. Options include a timed climb or an untimed hike; finishers and cheering spectators receive custom bells and there is music and shuttles a..

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..

Experience the Papertown Trail Races at Chestnut Mountain Nature Park in Canton. Choose between 10km and 20km chip timed courses featuring wooded trails and scenic views.

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..

The Viewpoint Endurance Challenge is a timed trail run on a scenic 1.4-mile loop in the North Carolina mountains. Choose from 3, 6, 12, or 24-hour goals and run as far as you can, with no DNFs recorded. On-site lodging and crew support area..

A 100 mile looped trail event in Hickory, NC on October 17 to 18, 2026 for solo runners and teams of 2 to 10, featuring about 70 percent trails, significant elevation, stocked aid stations, night running rules, and pacer and crew provisions..

An 8.5 miles trail race in DuPont State Forest on October 17, 2026 benefiting Friends of DuPont Forest. The well marked singletrack route features nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain, two water stations and a post race forest festival.