2026 Hairy Gorilla Half Marathon

Now in its 12th edition, the Hairy Gorilla Half Marathon & Squirrelly Six Mile delivers a Halloween-themed trail adventure at Thacher State Park in Voorheesville, NY. This race, once dubbed the 'Best Costume Trail Race in America' by Runner's World, draws a small but dedicated field—recently about 151 finishers from roughly 9 states, with 17% coming back year after year. The course is a mix of scenic trails through the park, with costumed volunteers and spooky decorations adding to the festive atmosphere.

The race starts with both the half marathon and 6.3-mile distances running together, and a strict 17:00 per mile pace requirement keeps the focus on fun and safety. Slower half marathon runners are redirected to the shorter distance at the cut-off. It's a low-key, community-driven event where costumes are encouraged and the atmosphere is more about laughter than competition.

At the finish, runners don't find a huge expo but rather a warm, small-town vibe with plenty of post-race camaraderie. The medal and swag are fittingly themed, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a unique, playful trail race without the crowds.