Trail running course through mixed terrain in Maryland, USA
Farm Park Challenge

Farm Park Challenge — 3 Hour

3 Hour·446 ft gain·Derwood, Maryland
foresttrailloopbeginner friendly

AI-generated image

Distance3 Hour
Gain446 ft
DateMay 2, 2026
Difficulty1/5

About This Race

The most approachable introduction to the event's unique hourly loop system, capping out at 15 miles across three loops. This shorter timeframe maintains the event's distinctive rest-and-repeat rhythm while keeping the overall commitment manageable. Perfect for runners curious about the format or those preferring a morning adventure with afternoon recovery.

Each lap covers 5 miles as an out-and-back route through Agricultural History Farm Park's varied natural surface trails. The terrain includes grassy sections and technical singletrack with exposed rocks, roots, and a couple of minor creek crossings. Rolling hills provide elevation variation without major climbs, making the course highly runnable overall. Trail conditions may require course modifications as determined by park management.

Elevation Profile

Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.

Location

Practical Info

Weather

Early May in Maryland typically features mild temperatures with possible spring rain showers.

Accommodation

Located in Montgomery County, Maryland, with access to Washington D.C. metro area lodging options.

Best For

Runners new to timed eventsThose seeking unique race formatsTrail runners wanting tactical challenges

Notable Features

The hourly lap format creates a unique strategic element where runners must balance speed with recovery. The aid station is consistently praised as exceptional within the trail running community, offering extensive food variety including comprehensive vegan and vegetarian options. Volunteers receive the same coveted swag as finishers and can run the course before or after their shift.

Other Distances at This Event

Marathon

2,228 ft gain

Each lap covers 5 miles as an out-and-back route through Agricultural History Farm Park's varied natural surface trails. The terrain includes grassy sections and technical singletrack with exposed rocks, roots, and a couple of minor creek crossings. Rolling hills provide elevation variation without major climbs, making the course highly runnable overall. Trail conditions may require course modifications as determined by park management.

6 Hour

315 ft gain

Each lap covers 5 miles as an out-and-back route through Agricultural History Farm Park's varied natural surface trails. The terrain includes grassy sections and technical singletrack with exposed rocks, roots, and a couple of minor creek crossings. Rolling hills provide elevation variation without major climbs, making the course highly runnable overall. Trail conditions may require course modifications as determined by park management.

Farm Park Challenge 25K

319m gain

Each lap covers 5 miles as an out-and-back route through Agricultural History Farm Park's varied natural surface trails. The terrain includes grassy sections and technical singletrack with exposed rocks, roots, and a couple of minor creek crossings. Rolling hills provide elevation variation without major climbs, making the course highly runnable overall. Trail conditions may require course modifications as determined by park management.

10 Hour

282 ft gain

Each lap covers 5 miles as an out-and-back route through Agricultural History Farm Park's varied natural surface trails. The terrain includes grassy sections and technical singletrack with exposed rocks, roots, and a couple of minor creek crossings. Rolling hills provide elevation variation without major climbs, making the course highly runnable overall. Trail conditions may require course modifications as determined by park management.