The Forest of Needwood Race
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
The Forest of Needwood Race : March 14, 2026
The Forest of Needwood Race is the 43rd annual running of a five mile road loop through the historic Forest of Needwood property in Frederick County, Maryland. The event is organized as an in-person race at Saint Mary Catholic Church, 4231 Catholic Church Road, Petersville/Knoxville, MD 21758. A snow or weather backup date is scheduled for March 21, 2026.
The course is a 5 mile loop on paved roads with rolling hills. The event is part of the Frederick Steeplechasers Grand Prix and supports local activities including a scholarship fund. Course records are listed as 25:52 for males (1989) and 29:48 for females (1995).
Registration options and prices for 2026 are:
- 5 mile - adult (19 and older): pre-registration $30, race day $35
- 5 mile - youth (18 and under): pre-registration $10, race day $15
A commemorative race shirt is guaranteed to runners who pre-register before February 26, 2026; later registrations receive shirts on a first come, first served basis. Awards include 1st and 2nd place gender plaques for adult and youth divisions, plus 1st and 2nd place medals in six adult age groups. The race is sponsored by local running and recreation organizations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
