SMR Mayapple Trail Runs

SMR Mayapple Trail Runs (May 16, 2026)

The SMR Mayapple Trail Runs take place in South Mountain Reservation, Millburn, New Jersey, and are organized by volunteers from the South Mountain Conservancy with support from the Essex County Parks Department. The event offers a set of looped trail courses that start and finish at the Locust Grove picnic area.

Distances offered:

• 50 miles
• 50K (31 miles)
• 20 miles
• 10 miles
• 5 miles
• Kids 1 Mile for ages 5 to 12, with one parent or guardian allowed to accompany

Course layout includes a 10.5-mile east loop, a 10.2-mile west loop, and a 5-mile E-W loop through the 2,110-acre reservation. Terrain combines double-wide gravel roads, technically challenging single-track trails with roots and rocks, and a short half-mile pavement section. The east and west loops total approximately 1,500 feet of ascent; the 5-mile loop has about 700 feet of ascent. Aid stations are positioned roughly every five miles on the east and west loops and provide water, electrolyte drinks, and snacks.

Runners may drop to a shorter distance during the event without being recorded as a DNF, though medal or prize eligibility requires completion of the full course for the entered distance at that event. The races are largely volunteer supported and proceeds benefit the Conservancy’s trail and park programs. Race-day mobile registration is available; the event has reached its previous maximum of 250 entrants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.