Fall Ultramarathons Across the Mid-Atlantic
For those of you who aren’t satisfied with a marathon, fall is the best season to push yourself further and tackle an ultramarathon distance race. Whether it is 50K, 50 Miles, or Last Person Standing, there are races within a short drive of the DMV where you can stretch your legs and high-step over roots and boulders.
From a 24-hour loop challenge on the Eastern Shore to a hundred miles along the New River at peak fall color, the region has a deep fall ultra calendar. Here are seven races within driving distance, sorted by date.
The Pemberton 24
September 18-19, 2026 | Salisbury, MD | 24 Hour
The Pemberton 24 is a wild, one-of-a-kind endurance challenge where you—and/or your team—can run as many 5Ks as you'd like over a 24-hour period. Starting Friday, September 18th at 6:00 PM, a new 5K will begin every hour on the hour, with the final one kicking off at 5:00 PM on Saturday, September 19th. Each 5K takes place on the scenic trails of Pemberton Park in Salisbury, Maryland, hosted by Algonquin Ultras Inc. and Wicomico County. An aid station at the start/finish will be stocked with cold water, snacks, gels, sodas, and plenty of surprises. Runners are encouraged to set up a camp area to rest, sleep (if you can), and connect with fellow participants and volunteers between runs.
Virginia 100 Mile, 50 Mile, 50k & 25k
October 10-11, 2026 | Max Meadows, Virginia | 25K, 50K, 50 Mile, 100 Mile
The Virginia 100 mile, 50 mile, 50k and 25k by Run Bum Races is a weekend of running, camping, local food / drinks, friendships and hopefully some personal bests! It happens at peak fall colors along the New River. This race takes place on the New River Trail, a 57 mile rails to trails path. Most of the trail is right alongside the MASSIVE New River. Beautiful orange and yellow leaves at peak fall colors light up the river above its rapids and waterfalls.
PB&J 50k + 25k
October 24 | Triangle, VA | 25K, 50K, Fat Ass
The 11th annual PB&J trail run will be held in Prince William Forest Park on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. There are two competition distance options: a 50k (two loops) and a 25k (one loop). Choose your adventure! But please, only choose ONE adventure (i.e. don’t sign up for both competitions)!
Entry opens on the 15th of September. There is no formal entry fee - this is a “Fat Ass” event. That said, you will be asked to bring one aid station item as “tribute” for use in the common aid at the event.
Only a total of 110 runners will be participating. The competitions have filled to capacity most years, so keep an eye out for registration!
Patapsco Valley 50k and 25K
October 24, 2026 | Catonsville, MD | 25K, 50K
Welcome to the 13th annual Patapsco Valley 50k AND the 5th running of the Patapsco Valley 25k! The race begins at Community College of Baltimore County Catonsville and takes you through Patapsco Valley State Park.
ALL runners, including virtual runners, will receive a high-quality Brooks event shirt, an additional PV50K/25K logo premium item (knit hat, socks, gloves, buffs are examples of previous premiums we have offered), a scenic and historic well-marked trail course, 5 well-stocked aid stations run by some of the best volunteers in ultra-running, post-race food and drink, and a one-of-a-kind finishers award: PV50K finishers receive our famous, unique and coveted hand-thrown mug- 25K finishers can expect an amazing finishers medal when you cross the line. Runners will be going CLOCKWISE on the course in 2026!
2026 Fire on the Mountain 50K Trail Race
November 1, 2026 | Green Ridge State Forest, MD | 25K, 50K
Settled deep within Green Ridge State Forest’s 48,000-plus acres, Fire on the Mountain Ultra Marathon measures approximately 32.8 miles and features an out-and-back course style similar to the beloved Catoctin 50K. And…our Race Director (RD) says this course doesn’t run like any ol’ “out-and-back” course, because the experience in the reverse direction, especially the final quarter of the race, is a whole different experience than the first quarter of the race. Come on out and try a training run if you don’t believe it.
17th Annual Rosaryville Veterans Day Trail Race
November 14, 2026 | Upper Marlboro, MD | 20K, 50K
The Rosaryville State Park course is a true gem for trail runners in search of a challenging yet picturesque route. With the majority of the course winding through deep woods, runners will be treated to stunning views of Maryland's natural beauty. The trail itself is largely buffed out single track making it accessible to runners of all skill levels. The race starts and finishes at the Pavilion picnic area, a short distance from the perimeter trail entrance. There will also be two aid stations along the way to help keep runners hydrated and energized. For those who need to drop off any bags or gear, there will be a designated drop bag area, which is only a short walk from the Start/Finish line.
2026 Devil Dog Ultras
December 5-6, 2026 | Triangle, VA | 50K, 100K, 100 Mile
Devil Dog Ultras is a 100-mile, 100K and 50K event in northern Virginia put on by a strange and happy (and very experienced) group of trail running weirdos. The loop course is primarily single-track trails, with occasional roots, rocks, and brief technical section. There are also spurts of fire road and rolling hills but no substantial climbs. The first loop for all races is 23 miles, and subsequent loops are 19.5 miles for the 100 mile and 100K. The 100k will complete three loops, and the 100-miler will complete five. The 50K will complete one loop plus a 9 mile loop. The course will be very well-marked.