A classic New England trail event featuring 50K and 23K courses through the rugged and scenic Pisgah State Park to benefit the Special Olympics.<\/p>\n
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The Pisgah Mountain Trail Races offer a breathtaking tour of Pisgah State Park, the largest state park in New Hampshire. Runners can choose between 23K and 50K distances, both featuring a mix of rugged terrain and scenic beauty. The 50K course is particularly challenging, racking up approximately 4,700 feet of vertical gain. The route begins with a mile of rural dirt roads before plunging into a network of non-technical forest trails, snowmobile paths, and technical single-track. Highlights include the climb to the New Davis vista, which provides expansive views of the surrounding Monadnock region, and stretches along the pristine Reservoir and Kilburn trails. The races finish with a fast two-mile descent on dirt roads back to the start area.<\/p>\n
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The 2026 Pisgah Mountain Trail Races are scheduled for Sunday, September 13th. Both the 50K and 23K events typically start at 08:45 AM from the Chesterfield School, located at 535 Old Chesterfield Road, Chesterfield, NH 03443. The race is organized by the Red Clover Rovers under a permit from the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation. Aid stations are strategically placed throughout the course, typically at intervals of 3 to 5 miles, providing essential hydration and nutrition such as Tailwind, LMNT, and Untapped fuel. The event has a long-standing history, dating back to the early 2000s, and maintains a low-key, community-focused atmosphere that emphasizes the spirit of trail running.<\/p>\n
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Runners are drawn to the Pisgah Mountain Trail Races for its “old school” trail running vibe and its commitment to a great cause. All proceeds from the event benefit the New Hampshire Special Olympics, making every mile run a contribution to supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities. The race is known for its well-marked trails and friendly, supportive atmosphere, with volunteers often described as exceptionally encouraging. Participants appreciate the technical variety of the course, which manages to be both “runnable” and physically demanding. Whether it’s the post-race community feel, the stunning autumn scenery of the New Hampshire woods, or the satisfaction of completing one of the region’s classic ultra events, Pisgah remains a favorite on the New England trail calendar.<\/p>\n