Friends 10K - 5K and Fun Run/Walk

Friends 10K - 5K and Fun Run/Walk is held in Thurmont, Maryland, on November 1, 2026, at Cunningham Falls State Park, with all three starts going off at 9 a.m. The 10K (6.2 miles) is a demanding two-loop course, the 5K (3.1 miles) is paved and includes one tough climb, and the 1.4-mile fun run/walk is untimed for anyone after an easy outing or joining friends and family. The event benefits Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks.

Hills are the defining feature here, so pick your distance accordingly: the 10K rewards runners who have practiced climbing and can hold form on the second loop, while the 5K suits a hard, short effort. Add weekly hill repeats for a month or two before race day. Runners who take on both this event and Makin' Hay earn special recognition.