Fall is here, which means great running weather in Ulster County. Here are details about five upcoming races, all of which are well-organized, affordable, and raising money for important local causes. Sign up today, and we will look forward to seeing you at the races!

2024 Towpath Run 6K
Accord Community Center, Accord, NY
Sunday, Sept. 29, 9:15 a.m.

This point-to-point race follows Towpath Road for 3.75 miles from Alligerville to Accord across rolling hills and passing beautiful views of the Catskills and Peters Kill creek. Proceeds go to support Little Ones Learning Center, a free, nonprofit early literacy program in Accord. Registration is just $18 through Sept. 25.

Rosendale Runs Half Marathon
Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, Rosendale, NY
Sunday, Oct. 13, 8:30 a.m.

The Rosendale Runs Half Marathon is back, with a new course, and new partner! Starting at the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail trailhead on Binnewater Road, the 13.1 mile race is now completely off road (90+% rail trail with two short footpath sections on Williams Lake and Mohonk Preserve property). Amenities include t-shirts, chip timing, abundant refreshments, raffle prices, finishers medals, and custom awards for age-group winners. Proceeds go to support the Wallkill Valley Land Trust, the nonprofit that works to improve, protect, and maintain the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail for public use and enjoyment. Registration is just $30 (sign up by Sept. 22 to get a shirt).

Capital to Capital 5K
O&W Rail Trail, Kingston, NY
Sunday, October 20, 10:00 a.m.

The Rotary Club of Kingston commemorates the anniversary of the Burning of Kingston with this family-friendly race on the newly upgraded O&W Rail Trail. The 3.1 mile point-to-point course runs from Uptown Kingston to Old Hurley, honoring the over 2,000 Kingston residents who fled along a similar route in 1777 when British soldiers burned their city to the ground. This year’s event is raising money and awareness for veterans in need of service dogs. Race features chip timing, age group awards, hand-crafted finishers medals and shuttle bus transportation back to the starting area. Registration is $25 for adults (children 12 and under are free).

UlsterCorps Zombie Escape 5K
Williams Lake, Rosendale, NY
Saturday, October 26 11:30 a.m.

Now in its 14th year, the annual Zombie Escape run showcases 3.1 miles of beautiful trails at Williams Lake—while passing zombies and other spooky surprises hiding in the woods, tunnels and caves! All proceeds go to support UlsterCorps countywide volunteer programs. The entry fee (adults $25, 17 and under $20) includes a free t-shirt and a specially themed race medal.

After the Leaves/Josh Feldt Memorial Half Marathon
Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Kerhonkson, NY
Sunday, November 24, 11:30 a.m.

This unforgettable race features 13.1 miles of carriage trails that pass two pristine glacial lakes and climb high up the Shawangunk Ridge to offer views into five states. In addition to the spectacular course, runners get refreshments, chip timing, unique handcrafted awards and a commemorative beer glass. Registration is just $30 ($25 for Shawangunk Runners members).