Free to Run Trail Races - Pittsfield, MA
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Free to Run Trail Races
The Free to Run Trail Races take place on September 12, 2026 in Pittsfield State Forest, Pittsfield MA. The event is organized by the Berkshire Ultra Running Community for Service, BURCS, and supports Free to Run, Inc., an organization that helps women and girls engage in outdoor activity and develop community leadership in conflict-affected regions.
Race options for 2026 include:
- 50K
- 25K
- 15K
- 5 mile
The course is a double-loop figure 8 totaling approximately 15.5 miles with about 3000 feet of vertical gain. The larger loop is about 10.5 miles and includes climbs to Pine Mountain, Tower Mountain, and Berry Hill, sections on the Taconic Crest Trail, and a fast descent back to the start. The smaller loop is about 5.5 miles, begins on the Lulu Brook trail, and returns via a winding descent. 50K runners complete both loops twice; 25K runners complete each loop once; 15K runners run the big loop once; 5 mile runners run the little loop.
There are three aid stations on course and runners are expected to carry water and calories. The 50K must be completed within twelve hours and the final small loop must be started within ten hours. Each finisher receives an award. Shirts are provided to registrants before September 1; later registrants receive shirts on a best-efforts basis. Entry fees range from $58.50 to $110.00 and a NOSHIRT code reduces the fee by $20. Registration closes September 6. Multiple campsites with showers and bathrooms are available in the state forest; participants must book their own sites. The organizers may convert the event to a virtual format if permits cannot be secured or officials prohibit an in-person race. Because profits are donated to charity, refunds and deferrals are not offered except for pregnancy. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
