Challenge yourself at the Parallel of Latitude 8-Hour Endurance Race on September 26, 2026, in Dryden, NY. This unique fixed-time event, set at scenic Dryden Lake Park, invites runners and walkers of all paces to complete as many miles as possible on a flat, 3.45-mile out-and-back unpaved rail trail loop, the Jim Schug Trail. With little to no elevation gain, the course is designed for sustained effort, making it ideal for those chasing personal distance goals without the pressure of traditional cutoffs. Solo participants can earn lifetime mileage awards, with milestones tracked and a custom jacket awaiting those who reach 1,000 cumulative miles. For a team-based challenge, gather your crew for the 8-hour relay, accommodating 2-6 participants.

What truly sets this race apart is its welcoming, low-key atmosphere and distinctive features. The course itself is aligned with the 42nd parallel north, a line of latitude passing through New York's beautiful Finger Lakes region. Race headquarters at the big pavilion serve as your personal haven, offering a large, well-stocked aid station after every loop with an array of refreshments, including pickles, soda, and potato chips, alongside a mid-day lunch. Runners are encouraged to set up their own pop-up tents or utilize the park's pavilions for breaks and recovery, though the race director humorously warns against lingering too long in "the cunning temptress" of a chair. As the clock winds down during the final hour, runners can take advantage of optional "Mini Parallels of Latitude"—shorter loops within the park to squeeze in those last crucial miles.

Typical race day conditions in late September offer pleasant temperatures, with highs around 68°F and lows near 46°F, and only a 15% chance of precipitation. This creates an inviting environment for a full day of running, camaraderie, and achieving new personal bests. Join the Parallel of Latitude 8-Hour Endurance Race for a unique experience where the focus is on your personal journey and how many parallels *you* can complete.