WVS Fall Trail 5.5 Mile Run

The Wyoming Valley Striders 39th Annual Fall Trail Run returns to Frances Slocum State Park in Wyoming, Pennsylvania on Sunday, October 25, 2026, offering runners a challenging and scenic five-and-a-half-mile course through the park's winding trails. This beloved fall event draws participants from across the region who come to test their endurance against the lush terrain of the state park. As autumn leaves begin to paint the landscape in warm hues, the air carries hints of briskness that invigorate each step along the trail.
Frances Slocum State Park is a natural setting for this race, with its rolling hills and dense forest providing both beauty and challenge on every lap around the course. The park's trails are predominantly grassy and earth pathways that snake through mature woods, offering runners glimpses of colorful foliage as they push forward against the cool October breeze. Participants will find themselves immersed in a quiet but vibrant atmosphere where nature’s soundtrack—rustling leaves and distant bird calls—is ever-present.
Since its inception 39 years ago, this trail run has become an integral part of Wyoming Valley Striders’ calendar, attracting hundreds of runners each year who come to compete or simply enjoy the scenic route. The race supports a range of age groups with staggered starts designed for fair competition based on handicaps. Over the past few editions, organizers have seen steady participation and even some returning champions eager to reclaim their titles. This event not only celebrates athletic achievement but also contributes directly to local conservation efforts through sponsorship proceeds.
The course at Frances Slocum State Park winds its way across varied terrain with grassy pathways that challenge runners' stamina and agility throughout the 5.5-mile stretch. With significant elevation changes, this race offers a true test of endurance as participants navigate uphill climbs and gradual descents while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding woodlands. Notable features along the route include several small bridges over babbling brooks and picturesque overlooks that provide moments to pause and appreciate the natural beauty before pushing onward.
Runners will start at staggered intervals based on their age-group, ensuring a competitive yet fair race environment for all participants. The finish line is located near the boat launch area where individual water bottles are available post-race along with ample parking space nearby. During cooler autumn mornings like those in October, runners can expect temperatures around 12 degrees Celsius and winds blowing at an average of ten kilometers per hour—conditions that may require extra layers but also enhance the refreshing nature of this outdoor event.

For registration purposes, participants must pre-register online via [https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Wyoming/WVSFallTrail55MileRun](https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Wyoming/WVSFallTrail55MileRun) by noon on Friday, October 23rd. The entry fee of $10 is non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another individual or future event dates. Race day bib pickup will take place at the end of the parking lot near the boat launch area starting from 10:00 AM until race start time.
On the morning of October 25th, participants should plan to arrive early for bib collection and familiarization with the course layout before taking part in their assigned age-grouped staggered starts. Parking is available at designated lots off Park Entrance Road near Frances Slocum State Park’s main entrance. Additional overflow parking options are also provided.
The Wyoming Valley Striders 39th Annual Fall Trail Run, set to take place on Sunday, October 25, 2026 in Wyoming, Pennsylvania, invites runners of all abilities to embrace the scenic beauty and challenging terrain of Frances Slocum State Park. This long-standing event offers more than just a race; it presents an opportunity for community engagement and personal achievement amidst one of autumn’s most picturesque settings.