Trail Running in Tennessee
Tennessee has 9 upcoming trail-running races scheduled for 2026. Chapel Hill is the busiest city with 2 races, ahead of Oak Ridge (1) and Grandview (1).
Showing all 9
Trail Running
The Mad Mallard 3, 6, 12 & 24 HR NIGHT TIME trail race.
July 10, 2026
Chapel Hill, TN
Trail Running
The Mad Mallard 3, 6, 12 & 24 HR NIGHT TIME trail race.
Chapel Hill, TN
Trail Running
The Mad Mallard 3, 6, 12 & 24 HR NIGHT TIME trail race.
July 11, 2026
Chapel Hill, TN
Trail Running
THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER TRAIL RACE TO BENEFIT FLYING PIGS ANIMAL SANCTUARY
August 15, 2026
Grandview, TN
Trail Running in Nearby States
Frequently asked questions
What is trail running?▾
Trail running takes place on unpaved surfaces like dirt paths, mountain trails, and forest roads. Distances range from 5K to 100+ miles. Trail running emphasizes scenery, elevation, and technical terrain over pace.
What shoes do I need for trail running?▾
Trail running shoes have aggressive lugs for traction, rock plates for protection, and a more durable outsole than road shoes. Popular brands include Hoka, Salomon, and Altra. Choose shoes based on your local terrain.
How is trail running different from road running?▾
Trail running involves more elevation change, uneven footing, and slower paces than road running. Expect to run 20-40% slower on trails compared to roads. The focus shifts from pace per mile to effort and time on feet.
What are the best trail running destinations in the US?▾
Colorado, California, Oregon, and Utah offer world-class trail running. Iconic areas include the Sierra Nevada, Rocky Mountains, Pacific Northwest forests, and Appalachian trails. Browse trail events by state on RACE.