The 2026 Umstead Trail Marathon ventures deep into one of North Carolina’s most beloved parks, offering runners a full 26.2-mile journey entirely within William B. Umstead State Park. Expect a mix of technical single-track sections, gravel bridle trails and plenty of rolling hills—roughly 2,400 ft of elevation gain challenges every mile. Aid stations appear every 3-4 miles with water, sports drink, salty snacks and sweet treats to keep you moving. Race start is at 9:00 AM with a 6-hour cut-off; headphones, baby joggers and pets are not permitted. Finishers receive a commemorative pint glass and a deep sense of accomplishment from running such scenic and demanding terrain.
Race
Taking place on Saturday, 7 March 2026, the Umstead Trail Marathon is organised by the Carolina Godiva Track Club and starts in the scenic William B. Umstead State Park near Raleigh, North Carolina. The 26.2-mile course blends roughly 25 % technical single-track with 75 % runnable fine gravel bridle paths, offers about 2,400 ft of elevation gain, and immerses runners in lush forest, lakes and streams for a standout trail-marathon experience.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the Umstead Trail Marathon?
How long is the Umstead Trail Marathon?
Where does the Umstead Trail Marathon take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Umstead Trail Marathon?
How can I prepare for the Umstead Trail Marathon?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Umstead Trail Marathon?
Taking place on Saturday, 7 March 2026, the Umstead Trail Marathon is organised by the Carolina Godiva Track Club and starts in the scenic William B. Umstead State Park near Raleigh, North Carolina. The 26.2-mile course blends roughly 25 % technical single-track with 75 % runnable fine gravel bridle paths, offers about 2,400 ft of elevation gain, and immerses runners in lush forest, lakes and streams for a standout trail-marathon experience.
The Umstead Trail Marathon is 42km long.
The Umstead Trail Marathon takes place in Raleigh, NC, USA.
The Umstead Trail Marathon elevation gain is 731 meters, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Umstead Trail Marathon?
Taking place on Saturday, 7 March 2026, the Umstead Trail Marathon is organised by the Carolina Godiva Track Club and starts in the scenic William B. Umstead State Park near Raleigh, North Carolina. The 26.2-mile course blends roughly 25 % technical single-track with 75 % runnable fine gravel bridle paths, offers about 2,400 ft of elevation gain, and immerses runners in lush forest, lakes and streams for a standout trail-marathon experience.
How long is the Umstead Trail Marathon?
The Umstead Trail Marathon is 42km long.
Where does the Umstead Trail Marathon take place?
The Umstead Trail Marathon takes place in Raleigh, NC, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Umstead Trail Marathon?
The Umstead Trail Marathon elevation gain is 731 meters, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
How can I prepare for the Umstead Trail Marathon?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Umstead Trail Marathon?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Umstead Trail Marathon or Carolina Godiva Track Club. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Umstead Trail Marathon website.
