Free to Run Trail Races - Pittsfield, MA
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Free to Run Trail Races
The Free to Run Trail Races take place on September 12, 2026 in Pittsfield State Forest, Pittsfield MA. The event is organized by the Berkshire Ultra Running Community for Service (BURCS) and benefits Free to Run Inc.
Distances offered:
- 50K ultramarathon
- 25K
- 15K listed elsewhere as a 10 mile option
- 5 Miler
The course is a double-loop figure 8 combining for approximately 15.5 miles and about 3000 feet of vertical gain per full circuit. The Big Loop is about 10.5 miles and includes climbs to Pine Mountain, Tower Mountain, and Berry Hill, sections on the Taconic Crest Trail, scenic vistas, and fast descents. The Little Loop is about 5.5 miles, begins with the Lulu Brook ascent, and finishes with a winding descent to the start/finish area. 50K participants complete both loops twice; shorter distances complete one or part of the loops as described.
There are three aid stations on course; runners are expected to carry water and calories as the race is designed to be demanding. The 50K has a 12 hour completion cutoff and requires starting the final small loop within ten hours. Each finisher receives an award. Shirts are guaranteed for registrations completed before September 1 and provided on a best-efforts basis thereafter. Registration is nonrefundable except for a pregnancy deferral and is treated as a donation when entrants cannot attend.
Camping is available in Pittsfield State Forest; participants must book campsites themselves. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
