Winter Wild Thangs Trail Series

The Winter Wild Thangs Trail Series takes place on Saturday, December 26, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM CT at Monte Sano State Park, 5105 Nolen Ave SE, Huntsville, AL. This trail series is designed for both new and experienced trail runners, featuring three races (Frozen Yeti, Frozen Trash Panda, and Frozen Goat) with short and long distance options. The series includes bluff views, beautiful mountain scenery, creek crossings, and waterfalls. There is a 17-minute per mile cutoff for Long Series participants.

Series Race Dates (2026 edition — note calendar alignment):

• Race 1 — Frozen Yeti: 5 Mile / 10 Mile
• Race 2 — Frozen Trash Panda: 10K / Half Marathon
• Race 3 — Frozen Goat: 15K / 30K (default short series is 15K; email to drop to 4 Mile)
• Series bundle capped at 250 runners.
• Bundle savings: Short Series saves $30–$40; Long Series saves $35–$45.

What You Get with Series Bundle:

• Wild Thangs series t-shirt
• Amazing finisher awards
• Series plaque
• Marco's Pizza at finish line of each race

Packet Pickup (at RunningLane, 2407 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville, AL):

• Frozen Yeti: Friday, December 25? (check event — typically day before race) from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Race morning pickup also available 6:00 AM – 6:45 AM (arrive as early as possible)

Aid Stations:

• Water, Gatorade, Coke, GU, pretzels, M&Ms, granola bars, and more.

Shirt & Awards:

• Short sleeve tri-blend shirt.
• Age groups: 0–9, 10–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, 70+ for all races.

Weather & Cutoffs:

• Average winter temperatures: low 25°F–35°F, high 45°F–55°F.
• In case of severe lightning, race will be delayed; cancellation possible if weather persists.
• Loose cutoffs overall, but Long Series participants should maintain at least 15-minute miles (17-minute mile cutoff enforced).

Refund Policy:

• No refunds, deferrals, credits, or friend/family transfers.
• Unclaimed shirts and medals are donated (not mailed).

Parking & Location:

• Monte Sano State Park, Huntsville, AL.
• Driving distances: Florence 73 mi, Birmingham 102 mi, Chattanooga 102 mi, Nashville 110 mi, Atlanta 180 mi.

The Winter Wild Thangs Trail Series is the perfect winter buildup to HTC's Mountain Mist 50K. Competitive, fun, and scenic — come for the trails, stay for the Marco's Pizza.