Tails, Trails, and Ales

Tails, Trails, and Ales takes place in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on November 7, 2026, with two trail distances on the program, a 10K and a 5K. Start times and elevation gain are not listed, so check the event details before race week.

Trail racing is well established around Chattanooga, and a 10K off-road is a good way into it: long enough to feel like a real race, short enough that you do not need a heavy training block behind you. Come off six to eight weeks of consistent running, add one hilly run a week, and pick shoes with tread rather than road cushioning. Take the 5K instead if this would be your first race away from pavement, since the shorter distance leaves room to learn how much slower trail pace feels for the same effort.