Steel Rail Races

Adams, United States • 17 May 2026

Steel Rail Races : Ashuwillticook Rail Trail

The Steel Rail Races are held each May on the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail. The event features multiple trail races that start and finish at the Adams Visitors Center, 3 Hoosac St, Adams, MA 01220. All race routes are out-and-back on the rail trail.

Distances offered:

  • Marathon (26.2 miles)
  • Half marathon (13.1 miles)
  • 8K
  • Mo Mile Kids Run with a half mile for age 6 and under and a one mile for ages 7 to 12

Runners receive a technical short sleeve shirt and a finisher medal. Additional event items include a post race food bag, race photography, a post race party with live music, raffle prizes, and a beverage offer for those 21 and older. The event provides water and restroom facilities along the course and uses timing chips attached to race bibs.

Proceeds benefit the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail and the Department of Conservation and Recreation; since 2012 the event has donated over $65,000 for trail maintenance and repair. The rail trail remains open to the public during the races, so participants should expect other trail users and are discouraged from wearing headphones. Wheelchairs and assisted push strollers are welcomed when organizers are notified; baby strollers and dogs are not allowed. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

26 mi
Marathon
13 mi
Half Marathon
8 km
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Join a friendly, informal 5 to 10k run or snowshoe on a roughly 10k course with loaner snowshoes available. Bring a spare pair to share, enjoy light refreshments, and team up for bragging rights and a shared baked treat.

Run the Free Spirit 50K in Leyden, Massachusetts and enjoy a scenic New England ultramarathon. The course follows dirt roads past historic farms, leafy woods and an 1870s covered bridge for a rewarding, challenging day.

Notchview Ultra in Windsor MA, July 10 to 13, 2026 features a scenic 1.9 mile loop with timed options from 6 hours to 100.7 miles. Full aid station, camping and merch plus a lap based charity challenge led by mascot Wally.

Join the 14th Annual Sweltering Summer Ultra, an 8 hour track challenge at Clapp Park in Pittsfield on August 8, supporting the AYJ Fund for children with cancer. Chip timing, a lively aid station and pizza and ice pops keep energy up.