North Carolina
North Carolina Trail Running Calendar 2026-2027
Explore the best trail runs in North Carolina for 2026-2027! Our updated list features 180 exciting trail runs across the region. Find your next trail run in North Carolina below and join the trail community at these great events!
September 2026
SDRC Charity 5k in Wilkesboro on September 5, 2026 is a 5K run/walk to raise funds for Ebenezers Christian Children’s home with food and yard games on site.
Community 5K at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary on September 5, 2026, held as UNC Club XCTF's first home meet; registration opens Aug 25, $25 fee, alumni entry free.
A memorial 5K run, ruck, or walk on the Longleaf Pine Trail in Fayetteville, NC. The untimed out-and-back event donates a portion of proceeds to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and includes T-shirts, bibs, and awards.
Honor the victims and first responders of 9 11 by walking or running 2977 stairs at this 25th anniversary commemorative event in Winston Salem
A trail event at Hagan-Stone Park offering half marathon and 10K runs plus ruck and virtual options, with morning, evening, and double-entry formats; evening races may require personal lights.
A community run in Cary, NC on September 12, 2026 featuring in-person and virtual 5K and 6.5 mile races, dog friendly Doggie Dash options, and support for Second Chance Pet Adoptions.
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.
Trail races at Cane Creek Mountain Natural Area feature a 10K and half marathon over single-track trails, steep climbs, and an optional climb of an 80 foot observation tower with frequent aid stations and chip timing.
Chip timed 5k and 10k trail races at Shining Hope Farms in Conover on Sept 12, 2026, supporting the Saddles and Salutes veterans program.
The inaugural Railway Races in Hendersonville feature a timed 5k and a 1 mile fun run on the Ecusta Trail, with in-person and virtual 5k options and family-friendly amenities.
Scale 110 flights of stairs in downtown Raleigh to honor the heroes of 9/11. This symbolic climb at the former Wells Fargo Tower welcomes first responders and civilians for a meaningful memorial event.
A community run in Durham on the American Tobacco Trail with in-person and virtual options supporting organ, eye, and tissue donation awareness.
Enjoy a scenic ten mile loop on packed dirt roads around Lake Summit featuring rolling hills, finisher medals, and post race pancakes in the heart of Zirconia.
Epiphany Cross Country #2 in New Bern NC features two 5K running races for girls and boys on September 14, 2026; registration opened and closed on December 7, 2025 and the listed fee is zero dollars.
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.
Point to point trail race between Pilot Mountain State Park and Hanging Rock State Park in North Carolina, offering 50 Mile and 50K options, a 50 Mile Relay, ruck and virtual races with substantial climbing.
Trail event in Morganton, NC offering a 50K to Table Rock summit and a 30K out-and-back, with aid stations, on-site camping, and defined refund and cancellation policies.
A mountain trail ascent in West Jefferson NC of about 5 miles and 1600 feet gain, with finishers receiving custom bells and a donation to local trail conservation.
Lap based Last Runner Standing event on Sept 19, 2026 at Historic Rural Hill near Charlotte, with 1.75 mile mixed surface loops and eco focused practices.