RDM Trail Race

The RDM Trail Race is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Trussville, Alabama. Set on Cahaba Mountain in the rolling foothills of the Appalachian range, the event offers a 5-mile loop and a 5K route, both primarily consisting of technical single-track trails. The course features significant elevation changes, multiple switchbacks, and terrain filled with rocks and roots, making trail shoes or hiking boots highly recommended. Runners, ruckers, and hikers are all welcome, with a total participant cap of 150 competitors to ensure an intimate trail experience. The race begins and ends at the Trussville Senior Citizens Center, with approximately 90% of the course held on natural surfaces.

Trussville is a city located in Jefferson and St. Clair counties, Alabama, with a population of approximately 26,100 residents. The demographic profile of Trussville is approximately 84.1% White, 11.2% Black or African American, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Asian, and 1.6% from two or more races. The median annual household income in the city is roughly $106,500. Geographically, the race takes place on Cahaba Mountain, which represents the tail end of the Appalachian foothills, offering a rugged contrast to the surrounding suburban areas. The climate in mid-April in central Alabama typically sees average lows of 10°C (50°F) and highs of 23°C (73°F). The humidity can be high even in the morning, making the technical sections of the trail particularly challenging as the temperature rises.

Registration for the RDM Trail Race remains open until the morning of the event, though early sign-up is encouraged due to the 150-person limit. Participants who register for both distances separately receive a custom RDM running hat and compete for awards within the 5-mile category. All finishers receive a medal, with specific awards presented to the top overall male and female runners, as well as the top two finishers in age divisions spanning from Under 20 to Masters (50+). Packet pickup begins at 6:45 AM on race day at the start/finish area. An aid station is provided at the halfway mark of the loop and at the finish line. The top historical performance for the 5-mile course is 43:28, set by John Samuel King in 2025.