Trail Running in Texas
Texas has 51 upcoming trail-running races scheduled for 2026. That is the highest event count for trail running of any state. The calendar runs year-round — busiest in January, September, and October, quietest in April, May, and December. No single city dominates the calendar. Flower Mound leads with 6 races, followed by Burnet (4), Spicewood (3), and San Antonio (3). The remaining 69% of the calendar is spread across smaller cities.
Trail-running races by month in Texas
Oct (12) · Sep (7) · Jan (5) · Mar (5) · Aug (5) · Feb (4) · Jun (4) · Jul (4) · Nov (2) · Apr (1) · May (1) · Dec (1)
Showing 24 of 51
Trail Running
Magnolia Hill Trail Run
Navasota, TX
Trail Running
Magnolia Hill Trail Run
June 28, 2026
Navasota, TX
Trail Running
Trail Grinder 5k, 10k, 30k Trail Run
Atlanta, TX
Trail Running
Trail Grinder 5k, 10k, 30k Trail Run
September 5, 2026
Atlanta, TX
Trail Running
Labor Day Trail Challenge Marathon • Half Marathon • 10K • 5K • 1 Hour
September 5, 2026
Cedar Creek, TX
Trail Running
Great Springs Trail Race - Natural Bridge Caverns
September 26, 2026
San Antonio, TX
Trail Running
Autumn Harvest Trail Run • Bastrop Last Standing • Ruck • 50K • 20-Miler • 10-Miler • 5-Miler • Full • Half • 10K • 5K
October 10, 2026
Bastrop, TX
Top Cities for Trail Running in Texas
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.