Zen Squirrel Trail Run

Zen Squirrel Trail Run

The Zen Squirrel Trail Run is scheduled for May 16, 2026, at Briar Chapel in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The staged start and finish area is Great Meadow Park at Briar Chapel (161 Salt Cedar Lane). The event is the 7th annual edition and offers multiple distance options.

• 2 Mile
• 5 Mile
• 10 Mile

Course and race day services

Each distance is a one-loop course that begins with 0.4 miles of downhill pavement before moving onto trails. The Briar Chapel trail network has more than 20 miles of single-track and is described as moderately technical, with dirt trails, rocks, roots, and hill climbs. Runners remain on trails except for a few road crossings and the finish approach to the staging area.

Race services include chip timing, medical support, frequent aid stations about every 1-2 miles, professionally marked courses, free photo downloads, and post-race food and beverages. A separate Kids Race for Treasure is provided for children 11 and under, with small age-group starts and prizes from a treasure chest. The event provides a race tee for entrants and offers reduced pricing for youth 17-and-under and seniors 65-plus.

Awards, age groups, and entry rules

Overall awards for the top five men and women in each distance are listed as tumblers and gift certificates; age-group awards are given for top three men and women. Official age groups run from 13-Under, 14-19, 20-29, up to 70+. Minimum unaccompanied ages: 10 for the 2 mile, 12 for the 5 and 10 mile; younger entrants must run alongside a registered parent or guardian unless approved by the race director. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.