Best Trail Races in the US: Which Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List?

Best Trail Races in the US: Which Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List?

No matter how many half-marathons and 10-Ks you already have under your belt, you'll never want to stop looking for a fresh challenge — a new adventure. If you want to feel the wind in your hair, the ground under your feet, and the burn in your muscles up and down the country, these trail races should make it onto your bucket list.

James River Scramble

This 10-K race starts in Richmond, Virginia, but don't expect an urban race or an easy time. Dirt trails and gravel? Check. Ravines? You bet! Steep downhill stretches? This trail has you covered. This 10-K is excellent for runners who quickly get bored, as the unique mix of wild and urban portions will keep you on your toes until the very end.

Silver Falls Trail

This November race at the Silver Falls State Park in Oregon has something to suit all tastes. Whether you love half-marathons, want to go all out with the 50-K, or are just gearing up for a 5-K race, you can mostly expect single-track trails, gravel, punctuated by some rocky, slippery stretches. The scenic twist of waterfalls will keep you going!

7 Sisters Trail Race

Yes, it's true — the 7 Sisters Trail Race that takes place just outside of Amherst, Massachusetts, in May really does find its way onto almost any list of dream trail races out there. That's for a good reason, though, as this 12-mile single-track race offers not only the most challenging run of the Northeast but also the most stunning sights.

Sehgahunda Trail Marathon & Relay

If ordinary marathons just don’t cut it for you, try this obstacle-ridden May race along the Letchworth branch of the Finger Lakes Trail — also called the Grand Canyon of the East. Folks who've done it before you will tell you that this wild stretch of nature, featuring everything from streams to rock and fallen trees, is significantly more challenging than many marathons out there. For those who don't think they can manage, shorter runs are also on the offer.

Catalina Island Marathon

Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the country, you will want to check out California's oldest-ever marathon trail that takes you through the steep hills of Catalina island, surrounded by untouched nature at its best. This coastal bare-scape will allow runners to think of nothing but their surroundings.

No matter where your trail-race bucket list may take you, you'll always want to be prepared with the best running gear — so before you sign up for a new race, why not consider whether you could use some new running shoes, hopefully offering you plenty of time to break them in! Whether you love urban trails or seek out the rough patches of nature, avid runners can also always benefit from some excellent camping gear, like an ENO hammock, to accompany them on their adventures!

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