Embark on a challenging and unforgettable trail running experience at the Afton Trail Run, held on July 4, 2026, in the stunning Afton State Park, Minnesota. Celebrating a legacy that began in 1994, this event has earned its reputation as one of the country's oldest, largest, and most competitive trail races, attracting runners from across the nation and beyond. Runners can choose between a demanding 50K (two 25K loops) or a single 25K loop, both offering a rigorous, 100% off-road journey through a landscape carved by a glacial moraine. Prepare for a course featuring seven long climbs per loop, rising from the picturesque St. Croix River valley through thickly wooded ravines and returning with a dynamic mix of rolling and flat terrain. While primarily runnable with gravel service roads, double, and single tracks, sections can be technical with dirt, roots, rocks, and mud, especially on descents, promising a true trail challenge.

The Afton Trail Run is renowned not only for its scenic beauty, encompassing restored prairie, oak savanna, and breathtaking river views, but also for its exceptional runner support and vibrant community atmosphere. Each 25K loop presents 2,335 feet of elevation gain and loss, with the 50K totaling 4,670 feet of ascent and descent, demanding respect and preparation. Throughout your race, you'll find well-stocked and expertly managed aid stations, offering crucial hydration and nutrition, and staffed by a dedicated "army of volunteers" frequently praised in runner reviews as "top-notch" and "fantastic." After conquering the course, all finishers are celebrated with a medal and a complimentary post-race meal of fresh-baked Neapolitan-style pizza.

Typical race day conditions in early July include highs around 80°F and lows around 59°F, with an 18% chance of precipitation, meaning runners should be prepared for potentially hot, humid, and slick conditions. Beyond the race itself, the Afton Trail Run makes significant annual financial donations and contributes hundreds of volunteer hours to Afton State Park, ensuring the trails you run are well-maintained for years to come. Experience the challenging hills, stunning vistas, and the warm, supportive spirit that makes the Afton Trail Run a memorable highlight of any trail runner's calendar.