Ring in the New Year by hitting the trails—because what better way to recover from holiday overindulgence than running up a mountain? These seven trail races are the perfect excuse to pack your leftover holiday cookies (no better ultra fuel, honestly) and finish the year strong. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just hoping to finish without falling face-first into the snow, these events are guaranteed to kickstart your New Year’s resolutions. Lace up, carb up, and let’s end 2024 on a high!
1. Recover from the Holidays 50K
📍 Huntsville, AL
👣 50K
📅 December 31, 2024
Organized by Huntsville Track Club
The Recover from the Holidays 50K is a an old fashion, low-frills, budget-friendly race. Endure 3.1 miles of rolling cross-country-style grass trails for an unforgettable 10-lap adventure. Conquer the course in the eight hour cutoff time and score a Santa-sanctioned hoodie—plus, the top male and female finishers earn a prize hand-picked by the jolly elf himself! Ho, ho, ho!
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2. Around the Town Ultra 6, 12, & 24 Hour Run
📍 Waverly Hall, GA
👣 24 Hour, 12 Hour, 6 Hour
📅 December 31, 2024
Organized by Race Director Vikena Yutz
Choose your adventure—6, 12, or 24 hours—and see what you’re made of on a flat, fast, one-mile loop. Whether you’re chasing miles, savoring the holiday vibes with Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, or snagging a fancy 100-mile belt buckle, everyone finishes at 12am on January 1st to celebrate the new year together!
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3. Go Big!
📍 Hilo, HI
👣 260 Mile, 100 Mile, 100K, 50K, Marathon, 5K
📅 December 31, 2024
Organized by Hawaii Mountain Running
Challenge yourself with an epic long-distance journey across a breathtaking yet demanding self-supported road course while supporting the vital conservation work of Hawaii Wildlife Fund. Start the year strong by pushing your limits, embracing the adventure, and making your mark on this unforgettable Big Island pilgrimage!
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4. Run Undead Ultra Trail Party
📍 Pelham, AL
👣 100 Mile, 100K, 50 Mile, 50K, 25K
📅 December 31, 2024
Organized by Zombie Trail Races
From 25K to 100 miles, tackle the flat and fast 5-mile loop while earning some of the coolest medals and buckles in the game. With a midnight ball drop, all-night music, and dance-offs, get ready to party zombie style!
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5. Resolution Run
📍 Las Vegas, NV
👣 10K, 5K, 1 Mile + virtual options
📅 December 31, 2024
Organized by Triple Dare Running Co.
Enjoy a fast, slightly hilly 10K, 5K, or 1-mile course with stunning views of Red Rock Mountains, perfect for runners, walkers, strollers, and even furry friends on leashes. With awesome medals, loaded nachos, Monster Energy drinks, and a lively atmosphere, it’s the ultimate way to end the year and set the pace for 2024!
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6. Ring in the New Year
📍 Fort Mill, NC
👣 10K, 5K
📅 January 1, 2025
Organized by Mill Stone
Choose between the 10K or 5K options, and enjoy a beautiful run through some of the area’s best trails, starting and finishing at the Rush Pavilion. Registrants will receive their pick of a bell, plus with awards for top finishers and the chance to support Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, this is the perfect way to start 2024 on a healthy and meaningful note!
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7. Across the Years
📍 Peoria, AZ
👣 200 Mile, 100 Mile, 6 Day, Last Person Standing, 72 Hour, 48 Hour, 12 Hour, 6 Hour, Marathon
📅 December 28, 2024 – January 3, 2025
Organized by Aravaipa Running
From December 28, 2024, to January 3, 2025, join a community of runners at the new venue Peoria Sports Complex and choose from a variety of challenges, including 24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour, 6-day, or even fixed-distance events. Break records, chase your goals, or simply soak up the camaraderie of this iconic race as we celebrate the New Year with determination, endurance, and new friendships!
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Fun fact: While many runners lace up with big resolutions come January, most lose steam within weeks—data shows only 36% stick with their goals past the month. Don’t be part of the fade.
What are your New Year Resolutions? Head to ultrasignup.com and start racing towards your goals! 💫
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