Wild Azalea Trail Challenge
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
About the race
The Wild Azalea Trail Challenge is scheduled for January 2, 2027 near Alexandria, Louisiana in the Evangeline Ranger District of Kisatchie National Forest at Valentine Lake. The 2027 event is the fifteenth annual running and mountain biking gathering on this trail system.
Available race classes cover multiple distances, including:
- 50 mile run
- 50 mile bike
- 27 mile run
- 27 mile bike
- 13.1 mile run
- 10 kilometer run
The route uses the Wild Azalea Trail, a 26 mile continuous trail noted by the organizer as the longest continuous trail in Louisiana. The trail system is described as well maintained and mapped, with visible half mile markers to aid navigation. Course terrain varies: lower sections include hardwoods and creeks, while higher sections feature hillier areas and longleaf pines.
Organizers describe the event as informal in finish privileges and amenities; participants are not offered typical finish line trinkets or formal finish ceremonies. All participants receive an event T shirt and may purchase a lightweight hoodie. The event organizer maintains a Facebook page for up to date information and participant communication. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.