Based on data from station USC00305426 (6 mi away)
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through "one of Earth's last great places" at the SRT - Shawangunk Ridge Trail Run, set for September 12, 2026, in Rosendale, NY. Offering challenging distances of 70 miles, 30 miles, and a Half Marathon, this race plunges runners into the rugged heart of the Shawangunk Mountains, affectionately known as "the Gunks." The course, composed of approximately 95% unpaved trails, is renowned for its technical terrain, featuring rocky sections, difficult footing, tight squeezes, and exhilarating scrambles. As you navigate this well-blazed trail, keep an eye out for SRT discs at key intersections, though supplemental markings are minimal, emphasizing self-reliance and navigational awareness.
The Shawangunk Ridge Trail is a visual spectacle, winding through rolling hills, rare dwarf pine barrens, serene sky lakes, majestic waterfalls, and distinctive white conglomerate cliffs uplifted nearly 300 million years ago. Runners will experience breathtaking vantage points up to 2,000 feet above the Hudson Valley, offering expansive views that can stretch across five states. The 70-mile course, traversing the entire length of the Shawangunk Ridge, boasts an impressive 9,620 feet of climb and 11,056 feet of descent, making it a true test of endurance. Typical race day conditions in mid-September bring comfortable highs around 74°F and lows near 57°F, with only a 15% chance of precipitation, providing ideal weather for tackling this extraordinary landscape.
What truly sets the SRT Run apart is its distinct minimalist and unsupported format. This means no traditional aid stations providing food or water; participants are required to carry their own sustenance and water purification systems. Multiple checkpoints ensure runner safety, but the essence of the SRT is self-sufficiency and an intimate connection with the wilderness. While the Half Marathon and 30-mile distances are suitable for both fast hikers and seasoned runners, the 70-miler is exclusively recommended for experienced trail ultra-runners. All distances culminate at a restored railroad trestle 140 feet above the Rondout Creek in Rosendale, where unique finisher medals await those who conquer this epic journey. The SRT Run is more than just a race; it's a celebration of the Shawangunk Mountains, managed by Run Wild, Inc., a non-profit dedicated to land conservation in the Hudson Valley.