Ghost Train Trail Races

The Ghost Train Trail Races returns to Brookline, New Hampshire on October 17th through the 18th in 2026. This event has a storied history dating back to its inception in 2009 as a fundraiser for the conservation commissions of Brookline and Milford, with all proceeds going directly towards preserving local trails. The races take place along the Granite Town Rail Trail, which follows an old railroad corridor that once carried massive granite blocks from quarries and ice harvested from Lake Potanipo to Massachusetts towns and cities.
Runners can expect a challenging yet scenic course through New Hampshire's autumn landscape. Participants will start early in the morning when temperatures are cooler and visibility is high. As daylight fades, runners pass under the canopy of peak foliage, moving along paths that echo with history and perhaps more mysterious entities. The trail conditions remain firm but slightly soft underfoot throughout the event.
Ghost Train Trail Races aims to preserve local trails while offering a range of challenging races for all levels. Over 16 years, it has become an integral part of Brookline’s community fabric, attracting runners from across New England and beyond. This year's edition includes five distinct race categories, each with its own unique draw.
The course winds through the woods along the former railroad line, now transformed into a trail that offers both natural beauty and historical intrigue. Runners will encounter several aid stations positioned strategically to provide rest stops and refreshments throughout their journey. The terrain varies from flat stretches to gentle inclines, offering runners a mix of challenges as they traverse this historic path.
Weather in late October can be unpredictable but typically features cool temperatures with an average high around 17.3°C (63°F) and an overnight low around 7.8°C (46°F). The feels-like temperature averages at 12.5°C, accounting for wind chill effects during the day’s cooler hours. Humidity levels hover around 71%, which can make running feel slightly more humid than usual but still comfortable overall.

The Ghost Train Trail Races offers a diverse lineup of events: the 30-Hour Ultramarathon and 30-Hour Relay, the Haunted Night 30-Mile Race, as well as two shorter races — the 15-Mile Race and the 15-Mile Relay. The registration process is managed through ultrasignup.com, where detailed information about each race can be found.
To register for any of these events, visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=133446 to secure your spot well in advance as the 30-Hour Ultra and Relay often sell out quickly. Bib pickup will take place at Brookline Town Hall on October 15th from noon until midnight; all participants must bring a government-issued ID.
The start location for all races is located at 1 Mason Road, where runners of all ages are welcome to participate provided they meet the race-specific requirements detailed in each event description. The Ghost Train Trail Races aims to accommodate both seasoned ultramarathoners and new trail enthusiasts with its comprehensive offerings tailored to various skill levels.
The Ghost Train Trail Races returns to Brookline, New Hampshire on October 17th through the 18th of 2026, offering a unique blend of history, challenge, and community spirit. This event is worth attending for runners who appreciate scenic trails and the rich historical context that frames each step along the way.