Tails & Trails State Forest Run

Tails & Trails State Forest Run is a multi-distance trail event held at the Pittsfield State Park in the Berkshire Mountains of Western Massachusetts. Scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, the race is organized by the Berkshire Ultra Running Community for Service (BURCS), a 501c3 nonprofit. The event serves as a fundraiser for regional animal rescue organizations, including the Red Robin Song Animal Sanctuary, No Paws Left Behind, and Berkshire Bird Paradise.

The event utilizes a loop-based format through the state forest, with staggered start times to accommodate the varying distances.

The course is designed to be highly runnable while still offering technical trail features. It begins with a short paved stretch before entering the forest interior.

• - **Trail Composition:** Features single-track trails with rolling hills and a net downhill in the early miles. Runners will encounter rocks, roots, and "flow-y" mountain bike sections.
• - **Key Landmarks:** The route passes through Whirlpool Ravine, follows the "Beaver Tail" trail to the Beaver Pond, and traverses sections of dense pine forests.
• - **Environment:** The final sections include large boulders and a unique "stuffed animal" display hidden within the woods.
• - **Support:** Two aid stations are positioned per loop, including a large station at the Lulu Brook start/finish area.

The 50K distance is competitive, with top finishers reaching sub-5 hour times on this specific loop. The event is well-supported by the regional trail community and offers a self-contained race village atmosphere.

• - **Registration:** Closes on Sunday, May 10, 2026. Shirts are only guaranteed for those registered by May 1st.
• - **Location:** Lulu Brook Parking Area, 1041 Cascade St., Pittsfield, MA.
• - **Camping:** Multiple sites with showers and bathrooms are available within Pittsfield State Forest and must be booked through the state's reservation system.
• - **Awards:** All finishers across the three distances will receive an award.