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2026 Hurt the Dirt Trail Run

Hurt the Dirt Trail Run: a small, challenging trail half at a Michigan ski area.

Race Date

Jun 20, 2026

Location

Rockford, MI

Solid Pick52

Quick facts

Date
Saturday, June 20, 2026
Location
Rockford, Michigan
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Trail
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

Hidden Gem

Atmosphere

Low KeyLocal Community

The Experience

The Hurt the Dirt Trail Run, held annually at Cannonsburg Ski Area in Rockford, Michigan, is a low-key trail half marathon that draws around 100 dedicated runners each year. With about 30% of participants returning from previous years, this race has built a loyal following among those who love a good dirt-and-sweat challenge.

The course winds through scenic single-track trails with rolling hills, offering a true trail running experience right from the ski slopes. The warm typical race-day weather—averaging 63–83°F—adds to the gritty, run-hard feel. Despite its modest field size, the event includes a 5k and 10k, making it accessible for different distances. The finish brings that small-race charm: a sense of community, a well-earned shirt, and the satisfaction of having hurt the dirt.

Race-provided description

The Hurt the Dirt Trail Run is an annual event held at the Cannonsburg Ski Area in Rockford, Michigan. It includes a 5k, 10k, and half marathon on scenic single-track trails with rolling hills, providing a challenging yet fun experience for runners of all levels.

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, June 20, 2026

Start Time

TBA

Start Location

Rockford, MI

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

trail

Scenery

Forest

Difficulty

Rolling Hills

Quality Score

Solid Pick52
Methodology
Heritage20/20

12 years running

Size10/15

~123 finishers a year

Momentum1/5

shrinking

Loyalty20/20

30% returning runners

Course & details0/15

limited extras

National draw0/10

runners from 1 state

Front-pack speed1/5

winner 1:26:25

Weather0/10

typical high 83°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

63°

Afternoon (High)

83°

Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration

0.1"

Precipitation

12 mph

Wind

62%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the 2026 Hurt the Dirt Trail Run?

The 2026 Hurt the Dirt Trail Run is held on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

Where does the 2026 Hurt the Dirt Trail Run take place?

It takes place in Rockford, Michigan.

What distances does the 2026 Hurt the Dirt Trail Run offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the 2026 Hurt the Dirt Trail Run course flat and good for a PR?

The 2026 Hurt the Dirt Trail Run is a rolling hills, loop course course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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