Prepare for a challenging yet rewarding adventure at Nelson's Summit 50/50, set against the stunning backdrop of Allegany State Park in Salamanca, NY, on October 24, 2026. This popular event, organized by Salt City Trail Racing, offers distances of 50 miles, 50 kilometers, and 25 kilometers, all starting and finishing at the welcoming Art Roscoe warming hut. Runners will navigate a roughly 16-mile looped course, gaining approximately 2,250 feet of elevation per loop, featuring a mix of groomed trails, technical single track, and engaging rolling hills. The rugged and majestic Allegany State Park, a sprawling natural area home to bobcats, black bears, and elk, provides breathtaking vistas through the trees and valleys, ensuring a truly immersive trail running experience.

The Nelson's Summit 50/50 course is designed to test every runner, offering a chance for front-of-the-pack athletes to achieve fast times while still presenting ample elevation to make you "know that you've done some work." Despite the challenge, its runnable nature and generous cutoffs (9 hours for the 50K, 14 hours for the 50-miler) make it an achievable goal for many. Expect two well-stocked aid stations per loop, providing essentials like water, Skratch, fruit, PB&Js, chips, Oreos, and candy, with hot food options such as ramen, grilled cheese, and pierogi available for 50-mile runners after mile 34. Typical race day conditions in late October often bring highs around 55°F and lows around 36°F, with a 24% chance of precipitation, creating crisp and invigorating running weather.

Beyond the physical demands, Nelson's Summit 50/50 is celebrated for its supportive atmosphere, fueled by an "amazing group of trail and ultra runners, volunteers, friends, and family." This USATF-sanctioned, Trail Sisters-approved, and UTMB Index race promises not just a challenging race, but an unforgettable journey through one of New York State's largest and most scenic parks.