Spring for the Trails Half Marathon

The 12th Annual Spring for the Trails Half Marathon is a trail running event scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Ipswich, Massachusetts. Organized by the Essex County Trail Association (ECTA), the race is a core component of the North Shore Trail Series. The course is characterized by its commitment to a pure trail experience, taking place entirely within the varied terrain of the Willowdale State Forest.

The event offers both online and day-of registration options, with incentivized pricing for ECTA members. Online registration concludes on May 3, while day-of registration is available during a limited window before the race begins.

The geography of the Willowdale State Forest features a mix of single-track and double-track trails, providing a technical but accessible challenge through coastal New England woodland. In early May, the Ipswich area typically experiences mild, damp spring conditions, with temperatures averaging 13°C (55°F). The race organizers utilize Avenza Maps for GPS-enabled navigation, though the course itself is thoroughly marked for participants. A single aid station providing water is located at the 6-mile mark, with additional refreshments available at the finish line.

Logistically, the start and finish lines are located near the Willowdale parking lot on Linebrook Road. Parking is available across from Marini Farms, with a short path leading to the check-in field. Competitive divisions are separated by gender (Men, Women, and Non-Binary) and age, ranging from under 20 to over 70. Prizes are awarded to the top two finishers in each category and are distributed immediately upon finishing to avoid a formal ceremony. Commemorative t-shirts are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, guaranteed only for the first 150 participants to register.