Keene Family YMCA Fall Foliage Trail Races

Lace up your trail shoes for the Keene Family YMCA Fall Foliage Trail Races on Sunday, October 4, 2026, in picturesque Keene, New Hampshire. This annual event, timed perfectly for the peak of New Hampshire's breathtaking fall foliage, offers runners a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in stunning autumn scenery as golden leaves blanket the trails. You can choose between a challenging 10K or a fast 5K course, both starting and finishing at the welcoming Keene Family YMCA on Summit Road, where a supportive atmosphere with cheering spectators awaits.

Both courses promise a delightful mix of wide crushed gravel trails and flowing singletrack. The 5K is an excellent introduction to trail running, featuring varied terrain and a quick pace that provides a great experience for beginners while also offering a potential personal record opportunity for more seasoned runners. For those seeking a greater challenge, the 10K course delivers with smooth singletrack and plenty of invigorating elevation gain, remaining very runnable despite its demands. Typical race day conditions in early October offer crisp air with highs around 66°F and lows around 42°F, alongside a low 15% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather to enjoy the vibrant fall colors.

Beyond the exhilarating run, participating in the Keene Family YMCA Fall Foliage Trail Races supports a vital cause. Funds raised from this event contribute to the charitable work of the YMCA, helping to make their programs and services accessible to everyone in the community. It’s an inspiring chance to achieve a personal best on beautiful trails while contributing to a meaningful mission.