Prepare to push your limits at the Interstate 17 Trail Run, a demanding 17-mile adventure set against the stunning backdrop of the Hudson River on August 8, 2026, in Closter, NJ. This is far from your average trail race, designed to test both your strength and endurance across rugged and technical terrain.

The course is a beast, featuring over 5000 feet of elevation change packed into its 17 miles, with 90% of the route on unpaved trails. After an initial mile out-and-back on a closed road to spread out the field, runners will tackle four punishing four-mile loops. Expect a mix of rock-strewn dirt paths, steep descents on jagged stairs and switchbacks, boulder-filled scrambles requiring the use of your hands, and winding singletrack with sharp ascents and descents. The final loop even reverses direction, adding another layer of challenge. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking viewpoints traversing the scenic stretch from New Jersey to New York and back again. Aid stations are strategically located at miles 1, 5, 9, and 13, fully stocked with water, sports drinks, soda, candies, and salty snacks, with the added convenience of leaving your own personal supply stash.

Founded in 2017, the Interstate 17 Trail Run has built a reputation for its raw, no-frills approach to trail running, offering no awards or medals, and emphasizing that participants run at their own risk. Typical race day conditions in early August bring highs around 87F and lows around 69F, with an 18% chance of precipitation, so come prepared for warm and potentially humid weather. This race is for those truly seeking a formidable challenge and an unforgettable connection with nature's untamed beauty.