Prepare for an unparalleled adventure through one of the Northeast's most breathtaking landscapes at the Shawangunk Ridge Trail Run on September 11, 2026, in Rosendale, NY. This challenging 70-mile ultra-distance race takes participants along the entirety of the iconic Shawangunk Ridge Trail, a path identified by the Nature Conservancy as "one of Earth's last great places" due to its exceptional scenic beauty and rare ecosystems. Runners will traverse rugged terrain featuring rocky sections, difficult footing, squeezes, and scrambles, demanding keen attention and resilient technical skill. The course, offering an elevation gain of approximately 9,620 to 11,000 feet, showcases rolling hills, tranquil wetlands, rare dwarf pine barrens, sky lakes, and dramatic white conglomerate cliffs. Along the way, expansive vantage points soar about 2,000 feet above the Hudson Valley, providing panoramic views that can span up to five states on a clear day.

What sets the Shawangunk Ridge Trail Run apart is its unique minimalist and unsupported format, making it a true test of self-sufficiency. There are no traditional aid stations providing food or water; participants are required to carry all their provisions and water purification technology. While the trail is well-blazed, there are no supplemental course markings, requiring runners to stay vigilant with navigation. This creates an immersive experience where engagement with the trail is paramount, as many runners attest to the need for constant focus to avoid getting lost and managing their own nutrition and hydration. Typical race day conditions in early September offer pleasant weather, with highs around 74°F and lows around 58°F, accompanied by a 16% chance of precipitation, though past runners note that wet conditions can make the already slippery rocks even more challenging.

The 70-mile journey begins at the High Point Monument in High Point State Park, NJ, and culminates in Rosendale, NY, finishing just beyond a restored railroad trestle suspended 140 feet above the Rondout Creek. This point-to-point race, managed by Run Wild, Inc., celebrates the preservation of the "Gunks" and encourages runners to deeply connect with this extraordinary ridgeline. Finishers are rewarded with unique medals, and a special barefoot badge option is available for those who dare to tackle the course in sandals, minimalist shoes, or even barefoot. This event is geared towards seasoned trail runners seeking a profound challenge and an unforgettable immersion into one of nature's masterpieces.