North Carolina
North Carolina Trail Running Calendar 2026-2027
Explore the best trail runs in North Carolina for 2026-2027! Our updated list features 187 exciting trail runs across the region. Find your next trail run in North Carolina below and join the trail community at these great events!
October 2026
A vineyard 5k at Divine Llama Vineyards on October 4, 2026 with chip timing, finisher medal, a wine pour, and age group awards on a grassy two lap course.
A military inspired Special Forces style fitness event in Pisgah National Forest, NC that tests participants' physical and mental toughness across multiple days.
A community 5K trail run/walk at Rescue Squad Park on October 9, 2026 with timed divisions for grades 4–12 and adults; registration closes Oct 2.
Last Man Standing race in Kings Mountain NC with repeated 3.1 mile loops and shifting time limits that cycle 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 minutes until one runner finishes.
A certified 5K trail run on a 50 acre horse ranch near Gastonia, NC, accompanied by a 2K walk, a Half Pint race for ages 7 and under, and a virtual 5K option. The event runs rain or sunshine and will be canceled for lightning.
Five hourly 5K loops at Jockey's Ridge State Park totaling 25K, with individual and two-person team options, chip timing, and a dune crossing.
Test your limits on a USATF certified asphalt loop in Lillington. This supported endurance event features a lit course at night and convenient trackside camping for a personalized running experience.
Trail races at Chestnut Mountain Nature Park on October 10 offering 20K and 10K courses with chip timing, one water station, and awards for top finishers.
A Halloween-themed day in downtown Morganton featuring a 5K flag-capture Zombie Run and a one-mile family fun run, followed by food trucks, a photo booth, and an after party.
Timed 3, 6 and 12 hour events on a roughly 3 mile loop near Lake Rhodhiss, featuring trail and crushed cinder greenway plus on-site tents and food.
Timed 5K trail run at Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge on October 10, 2026, with vegan vendors, a family friendly Fun Run, and proceeds for the Pig Project.
Trail races at Daniel Stowe Conservancy offering a 1 mile, 5K and two-loop 10K on trails, with awards, finisher medals and garden admission with race bib.
Trail races at Cane Creek Mountain Natural Area near Snow Camp NC offering a 10K and a 13.4 mile half with an optional climb of an 80 foot observation tower.
Join this cross country event in New Bern North Carolina featuring dedicated races for middle school and high school athletes. Run through a natural course at the Epiphany school grounds with 5K and youth distances available.
Timed running and rucking events in Whittier NC on a 1.4 mile loop with mountain views and on site lodging.
Trail races at Medoc Mountain State Park feature 10 mile and 5 mile loop courses on marked single track with stocked aid stations, race swag, post-race food, and awards.
Monster Dash is a trail 5K at Carolina Beach State Park on October 17, 2026. The day includes a cross country meet for teams and the event raises funds for young runners.
Trail races at Carvers Creek State Park with 11K and 6K timed options plus dog divisions, a 200 runner limit, packet pickup, and cash awards for course records.
Trail races in Uwharrie National Forest featuring a 20.5 mile loop course with 100 Mile and 100K options, technical terrain, and a 36 hour cutoff.
A 100 Mile ultra trail in Hickory with solo and team entries, a 4 mile loop course that is about 70% trails, 17,230+ feet of elevation and a stadium start/finish.