THe trail series
Dirt. Grit. Glory.
Join us for a series of unforgettable trail races designed for runners who crave adventure, community, and the thrill of the dirt.
Coming to the RUNColumbus Race Series in 2026
Where the Pavement Ends, the Adventure Begins
The all-new Trail Series brings the adventure of dirt, hills, and rugged beauty into the RUNColumbus experience. Spanning a variety of races from 5K to 60K, it’s designed for athletes who thrive off-road and are ready to take on new challenges.
Each event showcases the unique character of our region’s trails—rolling paths, technical climbs, and scenic landscapes—inviting athletes to push their limits while experiencing the full variety of trail running.
Choose Your Distance
With distances ranging from 5K to 60K, the Trail Series offers something for every runner—whether you’re taking your first steps off-road or pushing to new ultra distances.
Conquer Your Course
The Trail Series showcases the diverse terrain from smooth dirt paths to rocky climbs and rolling hills. Every race offers a new challenge, a fresh view, and the chance to experience trail running in all its forms.
All Series Benefits
Trail Series athletes enjoy the same perks as the full RUNColumbus Race Series—including race discounts, exclusive events, awards, and opportunities to connect with the running community.
2026 Trail Series
Think of the Trail Series as a mini-series within the broader RUNColumbus Race Series—spotlighting those who dare to step off the road and into the wild.
Athletes who complete at least six Trail Series events will be eligible for the Trail Series Champion and Division Champion titles. We also offer a host of other awards—make sure to check them all out!
a trail series event
Fantastic Frigid 5K Series
January 10 & 24, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
Rocks & Roots Trail Series
January 11 & February 15, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
Timbuk Winter Challenge
February 22, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
The Muddy Duck
April 4, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
Shepherd’s Corner 5K
June 13, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
Firefly Overnight Endurance Challenge
June 27-28, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
Darby Creek Trail Run 5K & 10K
July 11, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
The Hoot Half & 10K
September 6, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
Hocking Hills Trail Run
September 12, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
Autumn Squatch 10K, 20K, & 50K
November 1, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
a trail series event
Horseshoe Hill Climb
November 7, 2026
A registration discount is available to RUNColumbus participants.
sign up today
Ready to step off the roads?
Sign up for the RUNColumbus Race Series and step off the road with the Trail Series, where every race brings a new challenge and a new trail to conquer.