2026 Smoke Rise Trail Run
The 2026 Smoke Rise Trail Run takes place on May 9, 2026, at the Blevins Gap Land Trust of North Alabama in Huntsville, Alabama. Located along the scenic and forested Green Mountain trail system, this event offers participants a chance to navigate beautiful natural terrain. Expected temperatures for the day range from a low of 59°F to a high of 81°F, making moisture-wicking gear and light layers advisable. Organized by RunningLane, the race features various trail distances designed to accommodate both novice and experienced trail runners in a scenic, forested setting.
What distances are available for the race?
- →5K trail run
- →10K trail run
- →Half Marathon trail run (consists of 2 loops of the trail)
What is the format of the race and what should I bring?
This is a "cupless" trail race. Participants are required to bring their own handheld bottle, hydration pack, or reusable cup to use at aid stations, as no paper cups will be provided. To minimize waste, aid stations provide bottled water and individually wrapped snacks. A RunningLane reusable cup can be added to your registration at checkout for $5.
What is included with my registration?
- →Event t-shirt
- →Finisher medal
- →Access to the post-race grill-out on site
When is the deadline to guarantee my race shirt?
To guarantee receiving the specific Smoke Rise design, registration must be completed by April 29. Registrations made after this date may initially receive a RunningLane t-shirt, with the option to swap for the event design later if sizes are still available.
What are the time limits and cutoffs for the distances?
- →10K: 2 hour 30 minute cutoff (approximately 24:08 min/mile)
- →Half Marathon: 3 hour 40 minute cutoff (approximately 16:50 min/mile)
Note: Runners averaging slower than approximately 16 minutes per mile are encouraged to select the 10K distance.
How are age group awards determined?
Age group awards are available for the 10K and Half Marathon distances for the following categories:
- →0–9
- →10–19
- →20–29
- →30–39
- →40–49
- →50–59
- →60–69
- →70+
Where and when can I pick up my race packet?
- →Friday, May 9, 2025: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm at RunningLane, 2407 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
- →Race Day (May 9, 2026): 6:45 am – 7:45 am at the Blevins Gap Land Trust (early arrival is recommended)
What is the policy regarding refunds and transfers?
There are no refunds, deferrals, credits, or transfers allowed (including transfers to friends or family). Please note that shirts and medals will not be mailed; any extra items will be donated.
What happens in the event of severe weather?
In the event of severe weather, the race start may be delayed. Outright cancellation is rare and has never occurred in the history of RunningLane events.
Are there any volunteer opportunities?
Yes, volunteers can earn free race entries for future events:
- →One 5-hour shift: Free entry into a future Half Marathon or shorter RunningLane event.
- →Two 5-hour shifts OR one 8+ hour shift: Free entry into a future 50-mile or longer event, or two races at the Half Marathon distance or below.
Where can I preview the course routes?
You can view the elevation and routes on Strava ↗:
Is there any local lodging recommended?
Monte Sano State Park ↗ is approximately a 10-minute drive from the race site and offers cabins with views over the Tennessee Valley.