Upcoming Races
After Work Dirt Trail Series
June 25 - July 30, 2026
After Work Dirt is a small, community-focused trail race series designed to get people off the pavement and onto the incredible trail networks right here in our backyard. Born out of the evolution of the Tiny Trails Series, these laid-back weeknight races are an opportunity to explore local terrain, meet good people, and enjoy a little friendly competition.
Each event partners with local land trusts — the organizations that care for and protect these spaces — helping connect runners not just to the trails themselves, but to the communities behind them.
Races are intentionally small, capped at 75 runners, creating a welcoming and low-key atmosphere. Courses range from approximately 5K to 6.5 miles, with every venue located within 20 minutes of Portland. Come straight from work, run hard (or don’t), and stick around afterward for a casual hang.
Runners who complete at least three races will be included in the overall series standings and eligible for sponsor prizes. Awards will be presented to the top men, women, and non-binary runners in the series.
Registration will be available online and in person on race day. Discounted pricing will be available for runners who register for the full series in advance.
Robinson Woods Cape Elizabeth - 6/25
Gull Crest Trails Cape Elizabeth - 7/9
East Windham Conservation Area Trails - 7/23
Falmouth Community Park Trails - 7/30
View AROUND THE COVE, a film by RRC member Noah Keates
BACK COVE BACKYARD ULTRA
JULY 11, 2026
Portland's only backyard ultra on the iconic Back Cove Trail! Test yourself over and over (and over) again in a 24 hour period, or until the last biped remains standing. Every hour on the hour you'll head out to complete the 4.16 mile loop, in a test of physical and mental fortitude. Think you have what it takes? Let's find out!
July 11, 2026 - 10am
The Back Cove Trail is a 3.5 mile non-technical, mostly flat, gravel loop, with a short paved bridge crossing. The trail takes runners along the edge of a tidal estuary basin, and offers a beautiful view the entire length of the route. There is a 0.60 mile add-on each loop when you get to the start/finish area, to equal the standard 4.16 mile backyard ultra distance.
There will be two aid stations. There will be one unstaffed aid station in Payson Park with water, basic first aid supplies, and packaged snacks. There will be a fully staffed aid station at the start/finish where there will be water, electrolytes, packaged and prepared snacks and basic first aid supplies. Event personnel will be on hand at the start/finish for the duration of the event, so participants are welcome to leave their drop bags/supplies at that location. There are porta potties in Payson Park and at the start/finish area.
FIREBIRD TRAIL RACES
13M, Marathon, 50K | AUGUST 22, 2026
Firebird Trail Race is a challenging and wicked fun trail race with distance options of 13M, Marathon, 50K, that runs on donations, positive vibes, and a crushingly technical course in Falmouth, Maine.
AUGUST 22, 2026
Start times:
50k - 6:30AM | Marathon - 7:30AM | 13M - 8:30AM
The 10 mile loop in Lowell Preserve and thru North Falmouth Community Forest is technical and challenging, with lots of rocks and roots on mostly single-track trails. All events start and finish in Lowell Preserve at the Windham Fire Station.
13M course: one loop in Lowell Preserve and North Falmouth Community Forest plus 5k loop in East Windham Conservation Area trails
- Marathon course: two loops of the 13M course
- 50K course: three loops in Lowell Preserve and North Falmouth Community Forest plus 5k loop in Lowell (this one gives you a little extra for your registration fee)
Unlike other races, to get in you must donate to a non-profit of your choice in addition to paying the low cost registration fees! Runners must donate to a non-profit of your choice within a year before the race then send us a receipt to confirm entry. We would appreciate donations of at least $40, with a $20 minimum required.