Mid-Maryland Trail Festival 50k and 50k Relay

Lace up for an exhilarating winter challenge at the Mid-Maryland Trail Festival 50k and 50k Relay, set for January 31, 2026, in Elkridge, MD. Hosted by Bullseye Running, this long-standing event, celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2026, is a favorite among ultrarunners and relay teams alike for its festive atmosphere and well-organized experience. Typical race day conditions in late January present chilly highs around 43°F and lows near 25°F, with a modest 12% chance of precipitation, creating a true test of grit against the elements.

The course at Rockburn Branch Park features six engaging loops, each approximately 5.179 miles, winding through wooded trails and rolling fields. Runners will navigate runnable paths, encounter a few small stream crossings via bridges, and experience about 450 feet of elevation gain per lap, making for a consistently engaging terrain without excessive climbs. The unique looped format provides incredible flexibility, allowing participants to tackle the full 50K individually or as part of a 2-to-6 person relay team. This design also ensures consistent access to the race's standout aid station, strategically located at the start/finish pavilion.

Runners consistently praise the Mid-Maryland Trail Festival for its exceptional aid station, which is renowned for being generously stocked with a variety of food and drinks throughout the entire event. This ensures participants are well-fueled for every loop of the wooded course. The clear course markings further enhance the experience, allowing runners to focus on their stride and the scenic winter surroundings without worry. Whether you're aiming for a personal best in the 50K or enjoying a challenging team effort, this event offers a supportive and memorable trail running adventure in the heart of winter.