Trade bustling urban skylines for breathtaking panoramas of mountain peaks and serene lake vistas as you dash through trails. As summer’s warmth wanes, previously impassable desert terrain opens up, ushering in a season of awe-inspiring red rocks and mesas. With autumnal colors adorning hills and valleys, it’s the perfect time for thrilling mountain races. Strap on your trail running shoes and embark on a journey to the 10 finest fall trail races spanning the nation

1. Golden Leaf Half Marathon; Aspen, Colorado

Amidst the Rocky Mountains, the Golden Leaf Half Marathon unveils a captivating 13.1-mile route lined with glistening aspen trees. Commencing in Snowmass Village, the trail ascends 1,000 feet to Government Trail, offering breathtaking mountain vistas, streams, and aspen groves that lead to Aspen. The race, marking its 40th anniversary in 2018, sells out quickly, so early registration is advised.

2. Powisset Farm Trail Run; Dover, Massachusetts

Powisset Farm Trail Run, created by Mark Walter, immerses runners in New England’s vibrant fall foliage. The picturesque course near Boston boasts varied distances, from 1.5 miles to 8.3 miles, with the Meadow Loop trail affording views of the farm, rock walls, and avian attractions. Ascending 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, stands as 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 Tennessee River Gorge vistas.

4. Ghouls & Fools Nighttime Trail Race; Reading, Pennsylvania

Add a thrilling twist to your fall racing experience with the Ghouls & Fools Nighttime Trail Race. Taking place under the moonlit canopy of a forest, this 10K nighttime adventure introduces an element of spookiness to your running journey. Encouraging participants to bring their headlamps for illumination, this race is aptly dubbed the “Frantic Fartlek Through the Firs.” The shadows cast by the trees create an atmosphere of mystery, where every turn holds the potential for encountering phantoms, goblins, or even a friendly Bigfoot. Adorned with Halloween-themed aid stations and culminating in a post-race beer garden, this race combines the thrill of night running with a festive ambiance, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

5. Jay Peak Trail Festival; Jay, Vermont

Embark on an exhilarating journey through Vermont’s scenic landscapes during the two-day Jay Peak Trail Festival. Set against the backdrop of the Green Mountains, this event captures the essence of fall trail racing in the Northeast. The festival offers a variety of distances and routes designed to accommodate runners of all levels. On Saturday, participants can choose from strenuous, mid-grade, or relatively easy 5K routes. The most challenging route presents a formidable climb of over 1,100 feet of elevation gain, providing a rewarding experience for those seeking a formidable challenge. Additionally, runners have the option to complete multiple routes, culminating in a combined 15K adventure. On Sunday, the festival features a single 11-mile loop, leading runners through a landscape of diverse terrains and captivating vistas. The route’s elevation gain of 3,000 feet offers a challenging yet gratifying experience for those seeking to push their limits.

6. Moab Trail Marathon; Moab, Utah

Biking on Edge of Cliff in Moab

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Moab’s iconic landscape, the Moab Trail Marathon is a celebration of nature’s beauty and the art of trail running. Moab’s extreme temperatures during the summer months make fall an ideal time to experience the rugged terrain without the scorching heat. The marathon course traverses a remarkable route, encompassing 3,500 feet of elevation gain and loss. Runners navigate their way through a captivating blend of canyon rims, sandy basins, slickrock expanses, creeks, and dirt roads. The course caters to a diverse range of runners, offering various distances including a kid’s dash, 5K, half-marathon, and marathon options. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner seeking a challenging adventure or a novice looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of Moab’s landscape, the Moab Trail Marathon promises an unforgettable experience.

7. Catalina Island Half Marathon; Avalon, California

Embark on a journey of unparalleled beauty with the Catalina Island Half Marathon, set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Accessible via a ferry ride from Newport Beach, Catalina Island is a captivating paradise awaiting exploration. The race features both a half-marathon and a 10K course, both offering breathtaking views of the island’s pristine coastline and its rich wildlife. Runners have the unique opportunity to encounter a free-ranging buffalo herd, showcasing the island’s unique ecosystem. The courses lead participants through rugged trails and fire-road systems, challenging them with steep ascents that yield exhilarating descents. As runners conquer the course’s technical sections and ascend granite steps, they’re rewarded with panoramic vistas of Emerald Bay and Lake Tahoe, as well as stunning views of the High Sierras.

8. Trails For Glory; Las Vegas, Nevada

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the Vegas Strip lies a hidden gem for trail runners: the rolling single-track trails of Cottonwood Valley, home to the Trails For Glory Race. This environmentally conscious race offers a range of distances, from two to 42 miles, catering to runners of varying skill levels. As participants traverse the rugged desert terrain, they’re treated to captivating views of the Red Rock Escarpment’s sandstone bluffs. The race’s commitment to environmental sustainability is underscored by its B.Y.O.B. (Bring Your Own Bottle) policy, minimizing the generation of disposable waste along the trails. In addition to offering runners a thrilling racing experience, the event contributes to a noble cause, with the entry fees benefiting Refuge for Women Las Vegas in its fight against human trafficking.

9. Emerald Bay Trail Run; Lake Tahoe, California

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe during the Emerald Bay Trail Run, a seven-mile point-to-point race that showcases the stunning alpine landscapes of this iconic region. The race commences at Eagle Point, where runners set out on a journey that offers unparalleled views of Big Blue, one of the largest and deepest alpine lakes in the world. The course follows the edge of the picturesque Emerald Bay, leading participants along a trail that traces the shoreline with intermittent ascents and descents. As runners navigate through a mix of single-track and technical sections, they’re treated to panoramas of the shimmering lake and the majestic High Sierras. The route culminates at Lester Beach, inviting participants to cool off with a refreshing dip in Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters. While the course presents challenges, including granite steps and moderate elevation changes, the rewarding vistas and serene natural beauty create an extraordinary racing experience that lingers in the memory of participants.

10. XTERRA Trail Run Series; Oahu and Maui, Hawaii

The XTERRA Trail Run Series offers a captivating blend of trail running and Hawaiian paradise, inviting participants to explore the scenic beauty of Oahu and Maui. With races held in both locations, runners can choose from various distances that cater to runners of all skill levels. The Gunstock Ranch Trail Run on Oahu features half-marathon and 5K routes, providing a rare opportunity to experience the trail near the legendary North Shore. Runners navigate diverse terrains while indulging in panoramic views of the island’s captivating landscapes. On Maui, the Kapalua Trail Runs lead participants through lush tropical landscapes, offering a challenging yet rewarding adventure. Whether you opt for the 10K route or choose to take on the entire 11-mile course, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and the chance to traverse the same route as the XTERRA World Championship. By combining the allure of Hawaiian beauty with the thrill of trail racing, the XTERRA Trail Run Series creates an unforgettable and immersive racing experience.

Body Glide Outdoor Fragrance Free Anti-Chafe Stick is the ideal running companion while on the trail to keep your skin feeling great on those long days and gorgeous miles.

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