Rootrock Trail Run - 5K/10K/Half Marathon
Rootrock Trail Run offers a challenging, root-and-rock-strewn single-track half marathon in Chapel Hill.
Race Date
Oct 17, 2026
Location
Chapel Hill, NC
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, October 17, 2026
- Location
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K, 10K
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 169
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Rootrock Trail Run, now in its 6th year, challenges runners with its signature root- and rock-strewn single-track trails. Held in the sprawling green community of Briar Chapel near Chapel Hill, NC, the event utilizes the extensive network of forested paths, with Great Meadow Park serving as a vibrant start and finish area.
This mid-fall race is the first leg of the Rootrock Trail Races, offering 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon distances. The half marathon course is known for its technical nature, demanding focus and agility from participants. Athletes can expect a festive post-race atmosphere complete with food, music, and an awards ceremony featuring giveaways.
With a median field size of around 52 finishers and a repeat-runner rate of approximately 17%, Rootrock has cultivated a dedicated following. Runners typically hail from about 8 states, drawn to the unique challenge and community spirit of this popular trail event.
Race-provided description
The 6th Annual Rootrock Trail Run at Briar Chapel, held on the morning of October 17, puts runners to the test on 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon courses featuring miles of stellar, root- and rock-strewn single-track. After racing, athletes enjoy a festive post-race vibe with food, great music, a free kids’ race for treasure, and a fun awards ceremony packed with giveaways. Complementing the afternoon 3rd Annual Rootrock Mountain Bike Race, the Rootrock Trail Run is a popular mid-fall challenge and the first leg of the Rootrock Trail Races. Athletes who register for both events receive a special award and 10% off each race (select the Rootrock Trail Races Bundle during registration). Get pumped for an awesome day of trail racing action! About Briar Chapel Sprawling over 900 acres on the south side of Chapel Hill, NC, Briar Chapel is a green community with an extensive network of forested hiking and mountain biking trails. Centrally located Great Meadow Park, featuring a beautiful lawn, stage, and pavilion, provides the perfect start-and-finish area.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Start Time
8:30 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
161 Salt Cedar Lane, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Forest
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Hilly
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Course Map
1 other map for this race
Quality Score
Solid Pick463 years running
~52 finishers a year
shrinking
17% returning runners
3 timing sources
runners from 8 states
winner 1:39:27
typical high 70°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
50°
Afternoon (High)
70°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
65%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 169 finishers actually crossed the line across 3 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
169
Median time
2:32:39
Latest turnout
52
States
15
Turnout by year
2023–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Rootrock Trail Run - 5K/10K/Half Marathon?
The Rootrock Trail Run - 5K/10K/Half Marathon is held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, starting at 8:30 AM.
Where does the Rootrock Trail Run - 5K/10K/Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
What distances does the Rootrock Trail Run - 5K/10K/Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K, 10K.
Is the Rootrock Trail Run - 5K/10K/Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Rootrock Trail Run - 5K/10K/Half Marathon is a hilly, loop course course.
How many people run the Rootrock Trail Run - 5K/10K/Half Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 169 runners who have completed the Rootrock Trail Run - 5K/10K/Half Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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