Leftovers Trail Run

Leftovers Trail Run

Leftovers Trail Run is the 2nd annual post-Thanksgiving trail race held at Briar Chapel in Chapel Hill, NC on November 28, 2026. The event offers two marked trail distances that begin with just under a half mile of pavement before entering forested trails.

Distances:

• 5K 3.48 miles (5.6K), 217 feet elevation gain
• 10K 6.23 miles (10.02K), 380 feet elevation gain

Courses run on a mixture of undulating double-track and flowy single-track with roots, rocks, and short hill climbs within Briar Chapel’s 900-acre community and its 20+ mile trail network. The technical terrain rating for both distances is listed as overall 3 out of 5 with portions rated easiest/easy and moderate.

Registration includes vintage race swag selected from leftover stock: a tee, bib, and medal chosen at check-in or the awards table. Remaining tees may be sold after the event. Race operations include chip timing, medical support, well-marked courses, and staffed aid stations (5K: one on course plus finish; 10K: three on course plus finish).

The event features a post-race gathering with food and giveaways, an awards ceremony with leftover tumblers or pint glasses and gift-prize awards for overall and age-group finishers, and a free Kids Race for Treasure for ages 11 and under with age-grouped starts and small prizes from a Treasure Chest.

Staging and parking are centered at Great Meadow Park at Briar Chapel, 161 Salt Cedar Lane, Chapel Hill, NC. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.