Free to Run Trail Races - Pittsfield, MA
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Free to Run Trail Races - Pittsfield, MA
Free to Run Trail Races are scheduled for September 12, 2026 at Pittsfield State Forest in Pittsfield, MA. The event is organized by the Berkshire Ultra Running Community for Service (BURCS) and supports Free to Run, Inc., an organization that works to enable women and girls to safely engage in outdoor activity in conflict-affected regions and to develop community leaders through sports programs, life skills development, and outreach.
Race options for 2026 include:
- 50k ultramarathon
- 25k
- 15k
- 5 mile new option for 2026
The course is laid out as a double-loop figure 8 totaling approximately 15.5 miles per full circuit with about 3000 feet of vertical gain. The Big Loop is roughly 10.5 miles and includes climbs to Pine Mountain, Tower Mountain, and Berry Hill, sections on the Taconic Crest Trail, and a winding descent back to the start-finish. The Little Loop is about 5.5 miles, begins with the Lulu Brook trail ascent, and returns via a fast descent. 50k entrants complete both loops twice; 25k runners complete each loop once; 15k runs the Big Loop once; 5 mile entrants run the Little Loop.
There are three aid stations on course; runners are expected to carry water and calories. The 50k has a 12-hour overall cutoff and a ten-hour cutoff to begin the final small loop. Each finisher receives an award. Shirts are provided to runners who register by September 1st and are offered on a best-efforts basis for later registrations. Campsites with showers and bathrooms are available in Pittsfield State Forest and must be booked separately. The organizers reserve the right to convert the event to virtual and generally do not offer refunds or deferrals except for pregnancy-related deferments. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
