Lace up your trail shoes for the NJ Trail Cross Country Summer Series, an inviting 5K event set within the scenic Central Park in Parsippany, NJ. Known affectionately as the old Greystone complex, this historic venue doubles as a beloved course for high school cross-country meets, offering a genuine trail running experience. The series aims to introduce cross-country running to everyone, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities, including walkers. While the series runs weekly through the summer, please note that August 11, 2026, is a scheduled off-week for the series.

The 5K course treats runners to beautiful views and a diverse terrain featuring soft rolling hills, grass, gravel, and natural trail surfaces, with 100% of the course on unpaved trails. It's less about setting personal records and more about the joy of being on the trails and connecting with fellow runners in a low-key, fun atmosphere. Typical race day conditions in August see comfortable highs around 84°F and lows near 65°F, with a moderate 17% chance of precipitation, ensuring a classic summer cross-country environment.

Races, part of the broader ARQ NJ Trail Series, commence at 6:45 PM, with registration opening at 6:00 PM at Central Ave and North Cottage Road. Each participant receives a race chip for accurate timing, and after-race refreshments are provided to celebrate your accomplishment. The events are held rain or shine, embodying the true spirit of trail running.