Race to the Lake - Pelham

Race to the Lake - Pelham

Race to the Lake is a 10 mile lollipop trail race held at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, AL. The event uses single track trails and an out-and-back style loop that starts and finishes at the Lakeside pavilion near the South Trailhead. Entry for RTTL 2026 is listed at $10.

The course features several steep climbs and rocky descents, a technical but runnable ridge section, and varied terrain around the lake. The organizer notes about 2k of vertical gain and a 4 hour cutoff for the 10 mile distance, equivalent to a roughly 24 minute per mile pace or 2.5 mph. There is one aid station just over halfway with water and a few simple items such as gels; the aid station is unmanned though volunteers may be present.

Packet pick up is available race morning from 6:30 to 7:30am at the Lakeside pavilion. No late or race day registrations are permitted. All participants are required to pay a $5 fee in cash to enter the park; eligible military veterans enter the park free. The local running group BUTS will have a membership booth at the race to provide information about their activities and trail support. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.