Finger Lakes Festival of Races

SEP
25-26
2026
Experience the Finger Lakes region with races ranging from 5K to 18 miles on the scenic Catharine Valley Trail. Enjoy a weekend of running through fall foliage followed by a post race celebration with music and food.
25-26 Sep 2026
18 miles 13 miles 6 miles 3 miles

Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.

Finger Lakes Festival of Races

The Finger Lakes Festival of Races is a multi-distance running event held in Montour Falls, New York, near Watkins Glen. The event takes place on the Catharine Valley Trail, which utilizes a well-maintained former rail trail. The course features a slight elevation gain during the outbound portion and a slight elevation decline on the return trip toward the finish line.

Participants can choose from five different in-person race lengths over two days:

  • 18 Miles
  • 13.1 Miles (Half Marathon)
  • 6.2 Miles (10K)
  • 3.1 Miles (Friday Night 5K)
  • 3.1 Miles (Saturday 5K)

The Friday night 3.1 Miles race follows a different course than the version held on Saturday morning and coincides with the packet pickup. In addition to the physical races, virtual options are available for the 18 Miles, 13.1 Miles, 10K, and 5K distances, with shipping fees included in the registration.

The event occurs during the autumn season, allowing runners to see the fall foliage of the Finger Lakes region. The race proceeds benefit the Friends of the Catharine Valley Trail. Post-race activities at the site include music, food, and drinks for participants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

18 mi
Finger Lakes 18 Miler
13 mi
Finger Lakes Half Marathon
6 mi
Finger Lakes 10k
3 mi
Friday Night 5k
3 mi
Saturday Finger Lakes 5k