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Date:
Sat, Mar 07, 2026 at 7:30 AM
Location:
7101 Spencer Dixon Rd.
Guilford County, North Carolina
27455
United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Links:
runsignup.com
Tags:
10 Miles 17 Miles 26.2 Miles 5 Miles Run Trail Ultra Virtual

The Northern Trails Trail Race returns to Greensboro, North Carolina, offering distances of 5 miles, 10 miles, and 17 miles. This early spring trail race challenges participants to run, ruck, or hike through the scenic trails along Lake Brandt and Lake Townsend. Over the years, racers have experienced it all—snow flurries, rain, and sunshine—making Northern Trails one of the most unpredictable and exciting trail races in the Piedmont. No matter the weather, this race is the perfect way to kick off your season and test your limits.

Whether you’re a first-time trail runner, an experienced rucker, or a seasoned endurance athlete, Northern Trails offers a challenge for everyone. Many runners use the 17 mile distance as the perfect prep race for an upcoming ultra or as a spring A race to push for speed on the trails. Others enjoy the 5- or 10-mile distances as an approachable way to get into trail running or to enjoy the camaraderie of the trail community.

Finishers receive a custom spring-themed medal, part of the North Carolina Trail Mega Medal Series, making it a must-do for anyone chasing the full 4-race collection. Participants also get a custom race shirt (available in unisex and women’s sizing), designed to reflect the rugged beauty of the trail.

Why runners and ruckers choose the Northern Trails Trail Race

  • Unique distances – 5 mile, 10 mile, or the one-of-a-kind 17 mile race

  • Run, ruck, or hike – Options for both runners and ruckers to take on the course

  • Unpredictable weather – Past races have seen snow, rain, and sunshine—it’s always an adventure

  • Scenic course – Trails wind along Lake Brandt and Lake Townsend, showcasing Greensboro’s northern trail system

  • Exclusive medal – Earn the second medal in the North Carolina Trail Mega Medal Series

  • Perfect ultra prep – The 17-mile distance is an ideal training race for upcoming ultras

  • Spring tradition – Celebrate the season on the trails with a vibrant community of athletes

Who Should Race Northern Trails?

  • New Trail Runners – The 5- or 10-mile options are a great introduction to off-road racing

  • Ultra Hopefuls – The 17-mile distance is the sweet spot to test endurance before tackling a longer ultra

  • Competitive Racers – Chase a fast spring trail time on a rolling course

  • Ruckers – Take on the trails with weight in your pack and grit in your stride

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this spring trail race tradition. Register now and claim your place on the start line of the Northern Trails Trail Race.

More races nearby

  • NC AAZK Zoo Dash 5K: Race to Protect the Wild [runsignup.com]

    Sat, May 30, 2026 at 7:30 AM

    Description

    Join us for the 2026 NC AAZK Zoo Dash 5K: Race to Protect the Wild on Saturday, May 30, with a 7:30 am start at Jaycee Park in Greensboro, NC.

    This race is hosted by NC AAZK, the North Carolina...

    Join us for the 2026 NC AAZK Zoo Dash 5K: Race to Protect the Wild on Saturday, May 30, with a 7:30 am start at Jaycee Park in Greensboro, NC.

    This race is hosted by NC AAZK, the North Carolina Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. AAZK is a nonprofit volunteer organization made up of professional zookeepers and others dedicated to animal care, conservation, and education. This event supports conservation efforts locally and around the world.

    Proceeds from the race benefit the following conservation organizations:

    • Turtle Survival Alliance

    • Anteaters and Highways

    • Piedmont Land Conservancy

    • NC AAZK

    Course Description

    The 5K course winds through Country Park in Greensboro and the Greensboro Science Center's zoo. The route is fully paved with rolling terrain and plenty of scenery along the way.

    The start is located at the Jaycee Park parking lot, and the finish is located near the Rotary Club of Greensboro Carousel, making it easy for friends and family to cheer you on. Spectators will not be permitted on the course inside the GSC during the race, but are allowed in Country Park.

    Please visit the City of Greensboro Jaycee Park website for directions. Parking will be at Jaycee Park (3899 Jaycee Park Dr, Greensboro, NC 27455). Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start time. Late arrivals will not be allowed to participate for the safety of the runners.

    Restrictions

    Race will take place rain or shine, and the registration fee is nonrefundable.

    Walkers welcome! Participants must be able to complete the course within 90 minutes (~28 min/mile pace).

    Strollers are allowed. Please be aware that some areas of the course may be narrow with uneven surfaces.

    Only service animals are allowed at the GSC. Please leave all other animals at home!

    Participant Information

    This event is open to all ages and abilities. Runners and walkers are welcome. Participants must be able to complete the course within 90 minutes, which is when the course closes.

    Adult price:

    $40.00

    Youth price (under 18):

    $35.00

    Online Registration Fee Includes:

    Timing chip, a race t-shirt, and general admission pass to the Greensboro Science Center.

    Race Time: 7:30 am to 9:00 am

    6:30 am - Packet pick-up begins

    7:30 am - Race begins

    Awards will be given to the overall top three male and female finishers as well as the top three male and female finishers in each of the following age categories: 12 and under; 13-18; 19-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60 and over.

    Registration is limited to 500 participants.

    8.5 km
    3802 Jaycee Park Drive, Greensboro, North Carolina, 27455, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    3.1 Miles 5k Run Walk

  • Matt's Run to Fight Hunger/The Big Run [runsignup.com]

    Wed, Jun 03, 2026 at 6:30 PM

    Description

    On June 3rd, let’s inspire the runner in everyone.

    The Big Run and Matt's Run to Fight Hunger have combined forces to make Global Running Day in the Triad the best ever! All proceeds from the race...

    On June 3rd, let’s inspire the runner in everyone.

    The Big Run and Matt's Run to Fight Hunger have combined forces to make Global Running Day in the Triad the best ever! All proceeds from the race will go to Second Harvest Food Bank.

    Come run with us on June 3, 2026! This is a free fun run. Yes, free. We do ask that each person make a donation to Second Harvest Food Bank in order to receive an event t-shirt. You may pick up your race shirt at Fleet Feet Greensboro on June 2nd from 4-6pm or on the day of the event, June 3rd, 2026 from 12-4pm at Fleet Feet Greensboro and at the race site from 5:30-6:15pm. The run will actually start and finish in the parking lot next to Mt. Pisgah Church at 2600 Pisgah Church Rd. To ensure you get a t-shirt, please register by May 18, 2026. You may register race day and pick up your shirt from 5:30-6:15pm at this location.

    Why? Because RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING™.

    Help Us Give Back: We want to support our local community and give back to the Second Harvest Food Bank. All proceeds from the event will go towards Second Harvest Food Bank and any additional donations would be appreciated. Each dollar collected for this event provides 6 meals from Second Harvest to those in need.

    Stay inspired:

    ● Not sure where to start? Come see us so we can outfit you in the best gear, talk about your goals, and make sure you meet them. We're here to help.

    ● Search #thebigrun on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to see how our epic coast-to-coast running community celebrated at The Big Run last year.

    About Matt's Run to Fight Hunger: Matt’s Run to Fight Hunger originated to celebrate Matt Ketterman’s 23-year running streak of not missing a day. Yes, that is 8,700 days in a row. While Matt retired his streak due to surgery in 2015, his passion for feeding hungry families continues. Second Harvest Food Bank has been the recipient of thousands of meals due to the generosity of those of you in the running community!

    About Fleet Feet: Committed to providing expert advice, data-driven insights, head-to-toe product solutions, and robust training programs, each Fleet Feet location serves runners based on the belief that RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING™. Learn more at fleetfeet.com

    7.7 km
    2600 Pisgah Church Rd, Greensboro, North Carolina, 27455, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k Fun Run Run

  • The Fleet Feet Pickle [fleetfeetgreensboro.com] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 7:00 AM

    Description

    Get out your calendars and lace up your shoes! The 12th Fleet Feet Pickle is slated to take place on July 18, 2026. Grab your friends and fellow runners for this destination relay fun run between our...

    Get out your calendars and lace up your shoes! The 12th Fleet Feet Pickle is slated to take place on July 18, 2026. Grab your friends and fellow runners for this destination relay fun run between our Fleet Feet locations. Join us after for a fun gathering at our High Point store. This year, The Little Gherkin will be its own event in Burlington on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

    The relay course takes runners along the Greenway from Greensboro to High Point in a 16.1 mile route. This will be a relay in which 3 hand off locations will be set. Teams can be comprised of 4 members, 2 members or 1 brave participant! There will be a shuttle back for solo runners. For The Little Gherkin, we will complete a 5K out and back route on the running/bike path along University Dr.

    Pickle Run: For your $40 donation (per person) you will a get 1 pair of Tifosi Swank Sunglasses ($35 value) and a pair of custom pickle socks from Wrightsock ($18 value).

    All proceeds from this fun run will go to the Go Far-Fleet Feet Lace Up Program. Funds from this program are used to provide children at schools throughout Greensboro/High Point/Burlington with new shoes in order to safely and comfortably participate in the Go Far 5K training program/race.

    https://www.gofarclub.org/

    Each team will be responsible for transportation of their team members. There will be places for cars to stop at each relay check point. Aid stations will be located at each relay handoff and at 3 additional spots. For any further questions, please contact John at [email protected].

    The Pickle:

    Start Location: Fleet Feet Greensboro--3731 Lawndale Dr Greensboro, NC 27455

    Start Time: 7:00am

    End Location: Fleet Feet High Point--2762 Highway 68, Unit 111 High Point, NC 27265

    Packet Pick-up:

    ***Thursday July 16th at Fleet Feet High Point from 4-6pm

    Friday, July 17th at Fleet Feet Greensboro from 4-6pm

    Saturday, July 18th from 6:15-6:50 am at Fleet Feet Greensboro

    6.3 km
    3731 Lawndale Dr, Greensboro, North Carolina, 27455, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    16.1 Miles Fun Run Run

  • Stop Drop and Roll 5K [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Sep 26, 2026 at 9:00 AM

    Description

    This event will be the 10th annual Stop, Drop, and Roll 5K. Always a huge success, 2026 will hopefully be even bigger and better. This year, donations will go towards the Guilford Composite Squadron...

    This event will be the 10th annual Stop, Drop, and Roll 5K. Always a huge success, 2026 will hopefully be even bigger and better. This year, donations will go towards the Guilford Composite Squadron of Civil Air Patrol.

    All 5K participants will receive a short-sleeved t-shirt and a finisher surprise!

    The day will start with a fun run for the smaller runners followed by a 5K run/walk which is the main event of the day. Following the 5K, there will be fresh warm chili served at the fire station free of charge.

    This unique event is great for your company or organization to be a part of. This is a great opportunity for your company to give back to the community and promote your name!

    8.8 km
    Guilford County, North Carolina, 27358, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    3.1 Miles 5k Fun Run Run Walk

  • Nat Greene's Revenge Triathlons and Duathlon [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Oct 03, 2026 at 12:00 AM

    Description

    Nat Greene’s Revenge is North Carolina’s premier fall triathlon, duathlon, and aquabike event, offering athletes a unique chance to race both on-road and off-road multisport courses—all in one...

    Nat Greene’s Revenge is North Carolina’s premier fall triathlon, duathlon, and aquabike event, offering athletes a unique chance to race both on-road and off-road multisport courses—all in one morning. Held at the scenic Lake Brandt Marina in Greensboro, NC, this race delivers a dynamic and inclusive experience for all types of endurance athletes, from first-timers to seasoned competitors. New for 2026, all racing will take place in the morning, allowing for a smooth, unified race schedule and more time to connect with fellow athletes post-race.

    Race options

    • On-Road Triathlon: 800m swim, 12.5-mile road bike, 3.25-mile run

    • On-Road Duathlon: 2-mile run, 12.5-mile road bike, 3.25-mile run

    • On-Road Aquabike: 800m swim, 12.5-mile road bike

    • Off-Road Triathlon: 800m swim, 14.5-mile mountain bike, 5K trail run

    Lake Brandt is typically around 76°F in early October, which means we anticipate the race will be wetsuit legal, falling within the USA Triathlon-approved range (60.7°F to 78.0°F). Athletes should come prepared to race in wetsuit-permitted conditions, though the final temperature will be announced closer to race day.

    Why race Nat Greene’s Revenge?

    • Scenic courses through Lake Brandt and surrounding wooded trails

    • Unique opportunity to choose between on-road and off-road triathlon formats

    • Supportive, welcoming multisport community

    • Well-marked courses and excellent volunteer support

    • Custom race swag and memorable finisher medals

    • Convenient location in Greensboro, NC with ample parking and easy access

    • USA Triathlon sanctioning, ensuring a safe, well-organized experience

    Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply want to soak up the final race-day vibes of the year, Nat Greene’s Revenge is the perfect way to end your 2026 multisport season.

    *If the trail is too wet to race on, participants will have option to switch to road race or off-road aquathon

    6.4 km
    5945 Lake Brandt Road, Greensboro, North Carolina, 27455, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    13.15 Miles 16.25 Miles 17.2 Miles 17.75 Miles Aquabike Cycling Duathlon Run Swim Trail Triathlon

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