North Carolina
North Carolina Trail Running Calendar 2026-2027
Explore the best trail runs in North Carolina for 2026-2027! Our updated list features 155 exciting trail runs across the region. Find your next trail run in North Carolina below and join the trail community at these great events!
September 2026
An obstacle mud run at the Jerry Long Family YMCA with a 3.1-mile 5K for ages 7+ and a 1-mile Fun Run for all ages, supporting YMCA health programs and offering new medals for 2026.
Trail races of 10K and Half Marathon take place at Cane Creek Mountain Natural Area near Snow Camp NC. An optional 80 foot observation tower climb is offered at the end and non climbers receive a time penalty at an aid station.
Chip-timed 5k and 10k trail races on a 120-acre Conover farm on September 12, 2026, honoring veterans and supporting the Saddles and Salutes program.
A family-focused 5K and 1 Mile on the Ecusta Trail in Hendersonville with shirts, medals, chip timing and virtual options.
Scale 110 flights of stairs in downtown Raleigh to honor the heroes of 9/11. This symbolic climb at the former Wells Fargo Tower welcomes first responders and civilians for a meaningful memorial event.
A community event at Herndon Park using the American Tobacco Trail with a 5K, a 1 mile fun run and a virtual Sleep In Superhero option. Proceeds support outreach and education on organ eye and tissue donation in North Carolina.
Experience a scenic 10 mile run or hike around the shores of Lake Summit on packed gravel roads. Enjoy mountain views and a pancake breakfast at the finish line in the heart of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
Epiphany Cross Country #2 in New Bern NC features two 5K running races for girls and boys on September 14, 2026; registration opened and closed on December 7, 2025 and the listed fee is zero dollars.
XC Experience is a two lap 5k on the R S Central High School cross country course in Rutherfordton NC. The route uses packed dirt, grass and some pavement and finishes on the stadium track with multiple spectator viewing points.
Point to point trail race between Pilot Mountain State Park and Hanging Rock State Park in North Carolina, offering 50 Mile and 50K options, a 50 Mile Relay, ruck and virtual races with substantial climbing.
Trail 50K and 30K races in Morganton NC with summit terrain, creek crossings, aid stations, and camping at Steele Creek Park.
Experience an obstacle course run featuring a 5k course through woodlands and shallow water at Camp Albemarle. Choose between a timed competitive heat or a flexible untimed race with over 20 strength and agility stations.
A roughly 5 mile, 1,600 foot ascent trail event in West Jefferson NC with summit music, custom bells for finishers, and a portion of fees donated to trail construction.
A lap based elimination run at Historic Rural Hill near Charlotte where runners repeat a roughly 1.75 mile trail and gravel loop until one runner remains, with on site amenities, prizes, and recycling initiatives.
A trail 5K along the historic Roanoke Canal and a Half Mile Fun Walk in Roanoke Rapids, with proceeds helping replace historic batteau replicas and age-group awards for finishers.
A 24 hour trail ultramarathon at Hinson Lake in Rockingham NC on a USATF certified 1.5032 mile loop featuring electronic timing, night chem light markings, a 500 runner cap and awards for 24 hour and 100 K finishers.
Chad Lovette Memorial Trail Run/Walk at Cub Creek Park offers timed 5K and 10K trail races, a 5K untimed walk, and a virtual run or walk option, with proceeds benefiting a Relay for Life team.
A 5K trail run from Sandhills Community College through Southern Pines Reservoir Park on a USATF certified course, with race timing, awards, vendors, massages and a dog friendly atmosphere.
A dog friendly 5K on September 26, 2026 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary NC supporting Vets To Vets United with vendors, awards and a virtual option.
A one day cross country festival in Oxford, NC featuring 11 races across youth, middle school, high school, collegiate, and adult divisions, with proceeds supporting Central Children's Home of North Carolina and Durham Striders Youth Association.