Run Through the Grapevine - MD

Run Through the Grapevine - MD is held in Mount Airy, Maryland, on November 8, 2026. The single event is an 8K cross-country race, about 5 miles, starting at 10 a.m. Cross country means grass and dirt underfoot rather than pavement, and a course measured for racing rather than for a fast clock.

Five miles off-road sits in an interesting spot: long enough that going out too hard costs you, short enough that you can race it near threshold from start to finish. Expect softer ground to take 30 to 60 seconds per mile off your road pace, and pick shoes with some grip. A few weeks of running on grass or trails beforehand will prepare your legs for the uneven footing far better than treadmill miles.