Lace-up for the Wild Goose, a premier trail running festival taking flight on September 19, 2026, in the scenic Wawayanda State Park, Hewitt, NJ. This vibrant event offers a diverse flock of distances, including the formidable 100M and 50M ultra-challenges, along with options for those seeking a spirited 25K, a full marathon distance, or shorter trail runs. Runners can expect typical race day conditions in mid-September, with comfortable highs around 76F and lows near 57F, coupled with a minimal 10% chance of precipitation, creating an ideal environment for tackling the trails.

The Wild Goose course is a captivating journey through the New Jersey Highlands, designed to appeal to both seasoned ultrarunners and trail newbies alike. Participants will navigate a varied terrain featuring doublewide trails, winding singletracks, and sections punctuated with technical rocks, roots, and charming wood plank boardwalks, interspersed with brief road segments. While some stretches are undoubtedly "tech-y," the course generally maintains a runnable character with an average elevation gain of approximately 112 feet per mile. The race is renowned for its generous cutoff times, particularly the 36-hour limit for the 100M with a single cutoff at mile 92.5, making it an exceptional opportunity for those chasing their first buckle.

Beyond the challenging miles, the Wild Goose stands out as a true "Trail Party," fostering a supportive atmosphere. A "rockin' aid station" remains open for the full 36 hours of the hundo, staffed by a dedicated Volunteer Dream Team, ensuring comprehensive support even for runners without a personal crew. The looped course design simplifies logistics, allowing easy access to personal gear at the start/finish area and promoting camaraderie among participants. As an added bonus, the festival ambiance extends throughout the weekend with programming, film screenings, and free camping available for participants, pacers, and crew. The event proudly partners with Bigger Than The Trail, supporting mental health services through trail running. Keep an eye out for actual wild geese at Wawayanda Lake, a nod to the park's namesake and the event's unique spirit.