As summer’s warmth gives way to the crisp, cool air of autumn, outdoor enthusiasts eagerly trade bustling urban skylines for breathtaking panoramas of mountain peaks and serene lake vistas. With the fall season transforming trails into a canvas of vibrant colors, it’s the perfect time to embark on thrilling mountain races. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a trail novice, these top 10 trail races across the nation promise an unforgettable experience. And don’t forget to pack your Body Glide Anti-Chafe Stick to keep your skin comfortable and free from irritation on those long, scenic runs.
1. Golden Leaf Half Marathon; Aspen, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the Golden Leaf Half Marathon offers a captivating 13.1-mile route lined with shimmering aspen trees. Starting in Snowmass Village, the trail ascends 1,000 feet to Government Trail, treating runners to breathtaking mountain vistas, streams, and aspen groves all the way to Aspen. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2018, this race is a must-register event that sells out quickly.
2. Powisset Farm Trail Run; Dover, Massachusetts
Immerse yourself in New England’s vibrant fall foliage at the Powisset Farm Trail Run. Located near Boston, this picturesque course offers varied distances from 1.5 miles to 8.3 miles. The Meadow Loop trail provides stunning views of the farm, rock walls, and avian attractions, while an ascent of Noanet Peak offers a splendid overlook of Boston.
3. Rock Creek Stump Jump; Chattanooga, Tennessee
The renowned Rock Creek Stump Jump, founded by Matt Simms, is the Southeast’s premier 50K ultra trail race. This lollipop route atop Signal Mountain and Walden Ridge unveils mesmerizing views amid hemlock and rhododendron forests, with awe-inspiring vistas of the Tennessee River Gorge.
4. Ghouls & Fools Nighttime Trail Race; Reading, Pennsylvania
Experience the thrill of night running with the Ghouls & Fools Nighttime Trail Race. This 10K race, held under a moonlit forest canopy, adds a spooky twist to your fall racing experience. Equipped with headlamps, participants navigate through shadows, encountering Halloween-themed aid stations and culminating in a festive post-race beer garden.
5. Jay Peak Trail Festival; Jay, Vermont
Vermont’s scenic landscapes come alive during the two-day Jay Peak Trail Festival. This event, set against the backdrop of the Green Mountains, offers varied distances and routes to accommodate all levels of runners. With challenging elevation gains and diverse terrains, this festival is a highlight of Northeast trail racing.
6. Moab Trail Marathon; Moab, Utah
Celebrate nature’s beauty at the Moab Trail Marathon. Set against Moab’s iconic landscape, this marathon course includes 3,500 feet of elevation gain and loss. Runners traverse canyon rims, sandy basins, slickrock expanses, creeks, and dirt roads. With options ranging from a kid’s dash to a full marathon, this event caters to all runners seeking a memorable adventure.
7. Catalina Island Half Marathon; Avalon, California
Experience unparalleled beauty with the Catalina Island Half Marathon. Accessible via a ferry ride from Newport Beach, this race features both half-marathon and 10K courses that offer stunning views of the island’s coastline and wildlife. Rugged trails and fire-road systems challenge runners, while breathtaking vistas of Emerald Bay and Lake Tahoe reward their efforts.
8. Trails For Glory; Las Vegas, Nevada
Discover the hidden gem of Cottonwood Valley’s rolling single-track trails at the Trails For Glory Race. This environmentally conscious event offers distances from two to 42 miles, catering to all skill levels. Participants traverse rugged desert terrain with captivating views of the Red Rock Escarpment, all while supporting Refuge for Women Las Vegas in its fight against human trafficking.
9. Emerald Bay Trail Run; Lake Tahoe, California
Immerse yourself in the alpine beauty of Lake Tahoe during the Emerald Bay Trail Run. This seven-mile point-to-point race follows the picturesque shoreline of Emerald Bay, offering stunning views of Big Blue, one of the largest and deepest alpine lakes in the world. The course culminates at Lester Beach, inviting runners to cool off in Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters.
10. XTERRA Trail Run Series; Oahu and Maui, Hawaii
Explore the scenic beauty of Hawaii with the XTERRA Trail Run Series. Held on both Oahu and Maui, these races offer half-marathon and 5K routes through diverse terrains. Whether you’re navigating the Gunstock Ranch Trail Run on Oahu or the Kapalua Trail Runs on Maui, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and a challenging, rewarding adventure.
For all your trail running adventures, BodyGlide Outdoor Fragrance-Free Anti-Chafe Stick is the ideal companion. Apply it to key areas prone to chafing—like thighs, underarms, and feet—to create a protective barrier that keeps your skin feeling great mile after mile. Its sweat-resistant, long-lasting formula ensures comfort, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking scenery and the thrill of the race.
