2026 Algonquin 50K

The 2026 Algonquin 50K takes place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 7:30 AM, starting from Milburn Landing within Pocomoke River State Park on the Delmarva Peninsula. Participants should prepare for cold winter conditions typical for Pocomoke City, Maryland, in February, including the possibility of rain, snow, sleet, mud, or ice on the course. This trail ultramarathon consists of approximately 31 miles of mostly single-track and horse trail terrain. While the course profile is generally flat, runners will face challenges from sandy sections, standing water, and muddy paths, making it a rugged experience encapsulated by the "Mud or Blood" ethos.

What is the event format and distance?

• →The event is a trail ultramarathon covering approximately 31 miles (50 kilometers).
• →The format is a modified out-and-back course with a unique middle section on the return trip.
• →The surface is approximately 95% trail, consisting of single-track paths and wider horse trails.
• →The course has minimal overall elevation change.

What is the start time and location?

• →The start time is 7:30 AM on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
• →The start and finish location is Milburn Landing at Pocomoke River State Park, Delmarva Peninsula.
• →The event is held in Pocomoke City, United States.

What are the course challenges and conditions?

• →Runners will encounter sandy trail segments that can be deceptively tiring.
• →There may be standing water and water crossings on the course.
• →Mud is a primary challenge, and ice is possible depending on the weather.
• →The event runs in rain, snow, or sleet; there is no rain date.

What is the cutoff policy?

• →There is a total time limit of 8 hours, requiring finishers to complete the course by 3:30 PM.
• →Runners must maintain a sustainable pace to stay within the cutoff time.
• →Participants falling significantly behind the pace requirement may be removed from the course and are not permitted to continue unofficially.

What aid and support are provided on the course?

• →Aid stations are located every 5–6 miles.
• →Aid stations provide water, Tailwind Nutrition, soda, boiled potatoes, salty snacks, and cake.
• →Road crossings are monitored by volunteers.
• →Horses sweep the course for safety assurance.
• →Crew access is limited to designated aid stations only.

Are there any restrictions on support items or companions?

• →There are no drop bags allowed.
• →No pacers are permitted; friends or family may join runners only from the end of the Algonquin Trail to the finish line.
• →Dogs are not allowed for runners.
• →Runners are prohibited from bringing friends or family to run unofficially with them on the course.

What are the rules regarding registration and bibs?

• →No bib transfers, refunds, or deferrals are permitted.
• →Early or late starts are not allowed.
• →Dropped runners must surrender their bibs and proceed to an aid station for pickup.
• →The event is non-profit, community-driven, and eco-conscious, with a pack-in, pack-out policy regarding litter.

What awards and swag are available?

• →Finishers receive a locally handmade ceramic mug.
• →Awards are given to the top 3 men and top 3 women.
• →Additional swag includes a variety of locally made, runner-approved items.

What happens in case of bad weather or cancellation?

• →The event runs in rain, snow, or sleet; there is no rain date.
• →Cancellation will only occur in extreme conditions that affect the safety of EMS and volunteers.
• →No refunds or credits are issued if the event is canceled.

What is the mission of the event?

• →The Algonquin 50K is organized entirely by volunteers.
• →Proceeds and efforts go toward promoting, maintaining, and expanding trail access on the Delmarva Peninsula.
• →The event operates in partnership with Maryland Parks and Forest Services.