Trail landscape for Leftovers Trail Run

Leftovers Trail Run

10K·Chapel Hill, North Carolina
foresttrail5k10kbeginner friendly
Distance10K
DateNov 28, 2026
Difficulty2/5

About This Race

The Leftovers Trail Run offers a perfect post-Thanksgiving remedy for runners looking to burn off their holiday feast while embracing an innovative approach to trail racing. Set on the single-track trails of Briar Chapel in Chapel Hill, this November event combines scenic trail running with environmental consciousness through its unique "leftover" concept. What sets this race apart is its creative repurposing philosophy. Participants receive vintage bibs, tees, and medals from past events, all thoughtfully curated and given new life in this budget-friendly, eco-conscious format. This approach appeals to runners who appreciate both value and sustainability in their racing experiences. Offering both 5K and 10K distance options with a 9:00 AM start time, the race accommodates up to 500 participants on what the organizers describe as challenging single-track terrain. The timing on Black Friday provides an ideal opportunity for runners to gather with the local trail community while working off their Thanksgiving indulgences.

The course winds entirely through single-track trails in the Briar Chapel area, offering runners a technical path-based experience. According to race data, the terrain consists of 100% paths with no fire roads or pavement sections, providing a pure trail running experience through this Chapel Hill location.

Location

Practical Info

Weather

Late November in North Carolina typically brings cool, crisp conditions ideal for trail running, with temperatures often in the 40-60°F range.

Nearest Airport

RDU - Raleigh-Durham International Airport

Accommodation

Chapel Hill offers various lodging options from budget motels to boutique hotels, with the University of North Carolina area providing additional dining and accommodation choices.

Best For

Trail running newcomersPost-holiday fitness motivationEco-conscious runnersBudget-conscious participants

Notable Features

The race's distinctive "leftovers" concept creatively repurposes race swag from previous events, making it both environmentally sustainable and budget-friendly while maintaining the quality trail running experience that participants expect.