The Northern Trails Trail Race returns to Greensboro, North Carolina, offering distances of 5 miles, 10 miles, and 17 miles. This early spring trail race challenges participants to run, ruck, or hike through the scenic trails along Lake Brandt and Lake Townsend. Over the years, racers have experienced it all—snow flurries, rain, and sunshine—making Northern Trails one of the most unpredictable and exciting trail races in the Piedmont. No matter the weather, this race is the perfect way to kick off your season and test your limits.
Whether you’re a first-time trail runner, an experienced rucker, or a seasoned endurance athlete, Northern Trails offers a challenge for everyone. Many runners use the 17 mile distance as the perfect prep race for an upcoming ultra or as a spring A race to push for speed on the trails. Others enjoy the 5- or 10-mile distances as an approachable way to get into trail running or to enjoy the camaraderie of the trail community.
Finishers receive a custom spring-themed medal, part of the North Carolina Trail Mega Medal Series, making it a must-do for anyone chasing the full 4-race collection. Participants also get a custom race shirt (available in unisex and women’s sizing), designed to reflect the rugged beauty of the trail.
Why runners and ruckers choose the Northern Trails Trail Race
Who Should Race Northern Trails?
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this spring trail race tradition. Register now and claim your place on the start line of the Northern Trails Trail Race.
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 17 Miles
Type — Running
07:30
$80.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 26.2 Miles
Type — Running
08:00
$55.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 17 Miles
Type — Running
08:00
$80.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 10 Miles
Type — Running
08:00
$35.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 17 Miles
Type — Running
08:00
$35.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 5 Miles
Type — Running
08:00
$35.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 10 Miles
Type — Running
08:40
$59.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 10 Miles
Type — Running
08:40
$59.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 10 Miles
Type — Running
08:40
$45.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 5 Miles
Type — Running
09:00
$43.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 5 Miles
Type — Running
09:00
$43.00
Mar 07, 2026
Distance — 5 Miles
Type — Running
09:00
$35.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for March in Greensboro.
Greensboro is a city of almost 300,000 people (2020) in North Carolina. It is named after Nathanael Greene, a Patriot general who fought a battle here during the Revolutionary War. It's nicknamed the "Gate City" for its historical role as a transportation hub for the Piedmont. The famous author William Sydney Porter, better known as O. Henry, was born here. It can be sleepy and genteel but is enjoying a newfound reputation as a great place for young people. Downtown especially is experiencing a surfeit of bars, music venues and restaurants. Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and High Point are the three cities that make up the Piedmont Triad, halfway between Raleigh and Charlotte.
Read more launchExplore other exciting events happening in this same region.
location_on Greensboro, North Carolina, US
calendar_today Mar 21, 2026
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