Embark on an unforgettable journey through the rolling landscape of Westminster, MD, at the Hashawha Hills 50K Trail Run on February 28, 2026. This challenging 50K ultra, sponsored by the Virginia Happy Trails Running Club, promises a unique blend of scenic beauty and relentless terrain designed to test your limits. The course features 31 miles of diverse trails, including approximately 26 miles of single track, old woods roads, open fields, and just a few miles of asphalt and gravel. With an impressive 5800 feet of elevation gain, runners will navigate a constant succession of small, "never-ending" hills, punctuated by a few more significant climbs, and multiple stream crossings where wet feet are a certainty. The scenery evolves from dense woods to expansive meadows and farmlands, offering beautiful views throughout the run.

Hashawha Hills is renowned for its low-key yet highly supportive atmosphere and its famously decreasing entry fee each year, a quirky tradition that adds to its charm. Typical race day conditions in late February can range from highs around 45F to lows near 26F, with a 12% chance of precipitation, meaning runners should be prepared for potential mud, ice, or even snow, adding to the course's challenging character. The race ensures a well-supported experience with five opportunities for aid, offering a generous spread of water, Gatorade, PB&J sandwiches, chips, pretzels, cookies, and more, though runners should be prepared for stretches up to 8.5 miles between aid stations.

The race experience is further enhanced by an indoor pre-race briefing and post-race celebration within the heated Bear Branch Nature Center auditorium, providing warmth and camaraderie before and after your effort. All finishers are awarded a beautiful, locally handmade pottery mug, a treasured keepsake for conquering the "harder than you think" Hashawha Hills. This beloved event, which employs a lottery system for entry, consistently draws praise for its well-marked course, dedicated volunteers, and overall rewarding challenge.