Prepare for an unforgettable challenge at the 19th annual McKay Hollow Madness, returning to Huntsville, AL, on March 28, 2026. This esteemed trail race, hosted in the beautiful Monte Sano State Park, offers two distances: a grueling 25K (15.5-ish miles) and a formidable 12K (7-ish miles). Both races kick off at 8 AM from the John Scoble Memorial Pavilion, plunging runners into some of Monte Sano's most notorious single-track trails. Expect a technical course defined by significant climbs and descents, traversing sections like Sinks Trail, Panther Knob, Stone Cuts, Mountain Mist, Goat Trail, Warpath Ridge, Arrowhead, and Natural Well Trail. The 25K course specifically features the infamous "Death Trail," a brutal climb out of McKay Hollow that promises to test your limits. Runners frequently describe this race as a "real challenge" and one of the toughest in the Southeast, with sections requiring hand-over-foot climbing and un-runnable descents.

The McKay Hollow Madness holds a reputation for its "madness" and grassroots spirit, attracting runners who return year after year for its unique test of endurance and will. Aid stations are strategically placed, with two for the 25K route (at O'Shaughnessy Point around 5.1 miles and Trough Springs Trailhead at 9.8 miles) and one for the 12K at O'Shaughnessy Point. Be prepared for a cupless race and plan to carry your own hydration bottle or bladder. Light aid station fare will be available, but strict cutoff times are enforced for runner safety and respect for volunteers. Typical race day conditions in late March feature comfortable highs around 70°F and lows around 47°F, with a 16% chance of precipitation, meaning you might just experience the exhilarating mud and water that seasoned participants have come to love.

Embrace the challenge of the McKay Hollow Madness and discover why runners passionately conquer its demanding terrain. It's more than just a race; it's an immersive experience in the heart of Monte Sano State Park, promising both physical exertion and a deep sense of accomplishment as you navigate the rugged beauty of North Alabama's trails.