Wild Azalea Trail Challenge

Alexandria, United States • 3 Jan 2026

Event overview

The Wild Azalea Trail Challenge is a trail running and mountain bike event held on January 3, 2026. It is the 14th annual edition and takes place in the Evangeline Ranger District of the Kisatchie National Forest near Alexandria, Louisiana. The event uses the Wild Azalea Trail, a continuous 26-mile trail noted in the event text as the longest continuous trail in Louisiana. The trail system is described as maintained and mapped, with visible half-mile markers to assist navigation. The route passes through varied ecosystems, including lower hardwood areas with creeks and higher sections with longleaf pines. All participants receive a Wild Azalea T-shirt, with an option to purchase a lightweight hoodie.

Race options and logistics

  • 50 Mile run
  • 27 Mile run
  • 13.1 Mile (half marathon) run
  • 10 K run
  • 50 Mile mountain bike
  • 27 Mile mountain bike
  • 15 Mile mountain bike

Registration is open through Friday, January 2, 2026 at 11:59 PM CT. The organizer uses a Facebook group for updates and participant information. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

50 mi
50 Mile Run
27 mi
27 Miler
13 mi
1/2 Marathon
10 km
10 K
15 Mtb
27 Mtb
50 Mtb
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Join the Run For Your Life 5K and 1 Mile Urban Trail Run on May 2 at Forts Randolph and Buhlow in Pineville to support St Jude. Scenic riverfront trails, friendly competition and awards for all ages.