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ECUSTA TRAIL RACES

Celebrating a New Frontier in the WNC Running Community

Coming in 2026!

With a storied past and a promising future, the Ecusta Trail will open a new frontier to the Western North Carolina running community. iDaph Events is pleased to announce the Inaugural Ecusta Trail Races, coming to Hendersonville, North Carolina in 2026.

For over a decade, trail advocates have poured countless hours into making this project a reality. This event will serve as a celebration of their efforts and will allow residents and visitors a unique opportunity to explore this newfound treasure. Race date, distances and details will be announced pending government approvals.

ABOUT THE TRAIL

The Ecusta Trail is more than a greenway—it’s a grassroots dream turned reality. Stretching 19 miles between Hendersonville and Brevard, NC, this scenic rail trail winds through charming communities like Laurel Park, Etowah, Horseshoe, Penrose, and Pisgah Forest. Along the way, it offers breathtaking views of Western North Carolina’s natural beauty—fields, forests, streams, and the Blue Ridge backdrop—all while connecting people to the outdoors and each other.

After over 15 years of community advocacy and support, the Ecusta Trail is finally coming to life thanks to local donations, major grants, and the hard work of groups like Conserving Carolina and Friends of the Ecusta Trail. With construction officially underway, the first section is set to open in 2025.

This multi-use path will welcome runners, walkers, cyclists, families, and folks of all abilities. It's a new way to move, explore, and experience our region—without the traffic. It’s also an economic and wellness boost, linking towns, supporting small businesses, and giving people a fun, safe space to get active.

The Ecusta Trail is already changing lives—and now, with the launch of the Ecusta Trail Races in 2026, you get to be part of its story from the very beginning.