The Patapsco Valley 50K returns to Baltimore, Maryland on October 24th, marking the thirteenth year of this challenging ultramarathon event. Organized by CCBC-Catonsville and held in the scenic Patapsco Valley State Park, runners will traverse a rugged yet rewarding course that highlights some of the best trail running in the region. On race morning at around 7:30 AM when temperatures hover between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius with an average wind speed of about 10.5 km/h and humidity levels typically ranging from 68%, participants can expect a cool, crisp setting ideal for long-distance running. The landscape is characterized by firm yet slightly soft trails that provide traction but also test endurance over the full distance. This race has become a significant tradition in the local ultra-running community, with thousands of runners annually taking on either the 50K or 25K distances to support various charitable initiatives and scholarships for young athletes. Over its thirteen-year history, the Patapsco Valley 50K continues to attract seasoned ultramarathoners as well as newcomers eager to test their limits in one of Maryland's most iconic trail running environments. The course winds through the heart of Patapsco Valley State Park, featuring a mix of terrain including wooded trails and open paths. Runners will proceed clockwise along established routes marked with clear signage and aided by enthusiastic volunteers stationed at five well-stocked aid stations throughout the 50K route. The start and finish lines are located in the multi-use fields near CCBC Catonsville’s tennis courts, providing a scenic backdrop for both runners and spectators. Weather conditions on race day typically feature mild temperatures with an average of around 15 degrees Celsius at 7 AM, rising to about 20 by noon. The possibility of light rainfall amounts to approximately 1.9mm throughout the day, though most races see clear skies allowing participants to enjoy nearly nine and a half hours of sunshine.
50k 50K • Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $140.00
50k Virtual 50K • Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $140.00
25k 25K • Start: 08:30:00 • Fee: $115.00
25k Virtual 25K • Start: 08:30:00 • Fee: $115.00
The Patapsco Valley 50K offers two distances: the full 50k route for those seeking an ultra-distance challenge, alongside the shorter yet still formidable 25k option. Both courses provide runners with premium race shirts along with additional swag such as knit hats, socks, gloves, buffs, and finisher awards unique to each distance. For registration details, visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=132892 where you can sign up for either the in-person or virtual categories. Fees are $140.00 for both 50k options and $115.00 for each of the 25k variations, with no refunds after September 24th, 2026. Packets will be available at CCBC Catonsville on October 23rd from 1 PM to 7 PM or on race day morning starting at 6 AM until 8 AM. Virtual runners must complete their chosen distance between October 24th and November 24th, submitting results through the UltraSignup website. The start location is CCBC Catonsville’s multi-use fields near Lot 6 parking adjacent to the tennis courts. Participants should be aware of age requirements set at eighteen years or older for in-person events; younger runners are encouraged to participate virtually within their family's capabilities and safety zones. Patapsco Valley State Park, home to one of Maryland’s longest-running ultramarathons, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and athletic challenge. The 2026 Patapsco Valley 50K in Baltimore will once again bring together runners from across the country for an unforgettable day on October 24th.
Races Offered
50k
Oct 24, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:30
sell
$140.00
50k Virtual
Oct 24, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:30
sell
$140.00
25k
Oct 24, 2026
straighten
Distance —
25K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
sell
$115.00
25k Virtual
Oct 24, 2026
straighten
Distance —
25K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
sell
$115.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Baltimore.
thermostatTemperature
10.2° / 20.1°
wb_sunnyFeels like
7.6° / 17.9°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 23m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.9 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
10.5 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
68.2%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:17
nightlight
Sunset
18:26
About Baltimore
Learn more about the host city, Baltimore.
Slices of American history are around every corner in Baltimore. Maryland's largest city is a gritty old seaport town that's perhaps most famous as the site of Fort McHenry, where, at the height of the War of 1812, the sight of a tattered but defiant American flag flying over the harbor, despite a furious British bombardment, inspired Francis Scott Key to write the poem that was later adapted into the U.S. national anthem "Star-Spangled Banner". Nowadays, Baltimore's nonstop nightlife, temperate climate, tradition of hospitality, and cultural attractions — not to mention its prime location on the juncture of Chesapeake Bay — made it one of the major tourist destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region.
