2026 Air Line Trail Ghost Run
Air Line Trail Ghost Run: A flat, fast trail half through Connecticut forests.
Expected Race Date
~Nov 2026
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Colchester, CT
Quick facts
- Date
- around November 2026 (expected)
- Location
- Colchester, Connecticut
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Now in its 19th edition, the Air Line Trail Ghost Run draws ~209 runners each year from about 11 states, with 22% returning annually. Sponsored by three local Parks & Rec departments, this small-town event offers a low-key, community-driven race day through rural Connecticut.
The certified 13.1-mile course runs mostly along the historic Air Line Trail—a flat, packed stone and gravel path winding through pristine forests and tiny towns. The terrain is forgiving, making it a solid option for runners seeking a fast, scenic half-marathon on a non-road surface.
Runners receive a race T-shirt and enjoy the quiet camaraderie of a dedicated field. With no day-of registration and no walkers or dogs allowed, the focus stays on the trail and the simple pleasure of a well-organized, no-frills half marathon.
Race-provided description
The Parks & Recreation Departments of Hebron, Colchester, and East Hampton are collaborating along with the State of CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to host our 21st Annual Ghost Run! The 13.1 mile certified half marathon course follows the historic Air Line Trail for roughly 11 miles, through pristine and picturesque rural Connecticut Forests and small towns. The trail is mostly flat with packed stone, gravel, and earthen material. Runners registered before October 1st will receive a race T-Shirt. Registration deadline is October 31st by 1:30pm. PREREGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. There is no day of registration available. Early Bib pickup is scheduled for Friday October 31st, from 8am-2pm at the Burnt Hill Park Office Building (148 East Street, Hebron, CT, 06248) $50 Individual Runner / $100 Relay Team This event is for runners only, we are unable to accommodate walkers. We do understand that runners may need to walk periodically. This event does not allow dogs. Course The race…
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Forest, Small Town
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout7619 years running
~209 finishers a year
growing or steady
22% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 11 states
winner 1:22:13
typical high 58°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
41°
Afternoon (High)
58°
Ideal racing weather — cool and comfortable
0.0"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
71%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Air Line Trail Ghost Run?
The 2026 Air Line Trail Ghost Run hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around November 2026 (expected).
Where does the 2026 Air Line Trail Ghost Run take place?
It takes place in Colchester, Connecticut.
What distances does the 2026 Air Line Trail Ghost Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Air Line Trail Ghost Run course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Air Line Trail Ghost Run is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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