Wild Azalea Trail Challenge
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
About the race
The Wild Azalea Trail Challenge is set for January 2, 2027, near Alexandria, Louisiana, in the Evangeline Ranger District of Kisatchie National Forest. This is the event's 15th annual edition and it offers both running and mountain biking on the Wild Azalea trail system.
The Wild Azalea Trail is a mapped, well-maintained route that includes visible half-mile markers. The trail runs through varied terrain and ecosystems, including lower hardwood sections with creeks and higher, hillier stretches with longleaf pine. Organizers describe navigation as straightforward for participants.
Distances offered at the event include:
- 50 Mile Run
- 50 Mile Mountain Bike
- 27 Mile Mountain Bike
- 27 Mile Run
- 15 Mile Mountain Bike
- Half Marathon (13.1 Mile Run)
- 10K Run
The 50 mile event carries a 14-hour time limit. Organizers follow a minimal, "old school" approach to race services and do not provide extensive finish-line souvenirs or ceremonies. All participants receive an event T-shirt; a lightweight hoodie is available for purchase. Event updates and participant information are posted via the event's Facebook group. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.