Spring for the Trails Half Marathon

Lace up your trail shoes for the Spring for the Trails Half Marathon on May 9, 2026, a quintessential New England trail experience set in the picturesque Willowdale State Forest in Ipswich, MA. This 13.1-mile event invites runners to immerse themselves in the awakening spring landscape on a course that is 100% natural trail. Typical race day conditions feature comfortable highs around 66F and lows near 46F, with a low 13% chance of precipitation, offering ideal weather for an invigorating run through the woods.

The half marathon unfolds over a two-lap, 6.5-mile course, winding through a beautiful mix of single and double-track trails within the 2,400-acre Willowdale State Forest. While generally described as rolling and runnable, the course features approximately 800 feet of elevation gain concentrated in 3 to 4 distinct areas, adding a welcome challenge to the otherwise smooth terrain. Runners should anticipate occasional roots and rocks underfoot as they navigate paths that many might not otherwise discover. Aid is available at mile 6 with water, and additional refreshments await at the finish line located in the Willowdale parking lot on Linebrook Road.

As a cherished event organized by the Essex County Trail Association and a highlight of the North Shore Trail Series, the Spring for the Trails Half Marathon boasts a reputation for its beautiful and fun course. Runners consistently praise the scenic journey through Willowdale's woodlands, finding it less rocky than many other trail races despite the presence of roots. With a well-marked course and digital maps available, participants can confidently enjoy the unique beauty and engaging challenge that defines this springtime trail half marathon.