About This Race
The Lenape Trail Run follows New Jersey's fifth longest trail system, a 34-mile corridor established in 1982 that weaves through diverse landscapes from urban sidewalks to wooded singletrack. This unique ultra presents runners with constant surface changes, transitioning from concrete paths to dirt trails to historic aqueducts, all marked by the trail's signature yellow blazes. The race showcases the surprising variety of terrain within New Jersey's trail network. Runners navigate sections that range from developed pathways to natural forest floors, encountering everything from telephone pole markers in suburban areas to tree blazes in more remote sections. The course's hybrid nature makes it accessible to runners seeking their first ultra distance while still providing the mental challenge of navigation and surface adaptation. With over a decade of race history and a free entry fee, the Lenape Trail Run has become a fixture in the mid-Atlantic ultra calendar. The race attracts runners drawn to its unique character and the opportunity to experience the full length of this historic New Jersey trail system in a single effort.
The 34-mile point-to-point course follows the entire length of the Lenape Trail, marked consistently by yellow blazes throughout. Runners experience dramatic surface variety, beginning on urban sidewalks before transitioning to surfaced recreational trails, then to natural dirt singletrack and historic aqueduct sections.
The trail's routing through developed and undeveloped areas creates a distinctive ultra experience, with navigation aided by the established blaze system on trees and utility poles. Course conditions vary significantly by section, requiring runners to adapt their pacing and footing strategy as terrain shifts from hardpack to technical trail surfaces.
Location
Practical Info
Early March conditions in New Jersey typically feature cool temperatures in the 40-50°F range with potential for variable spring weather including rain or snow.
EWR - Newark Liberty International Airport
Berkeley, California location conflicts with New Jersey trail description - accommodation information uncertain due to data inconsistency.
Best For
Notable Features
The race offers the rare opportunity to complete an entire established trail system in one effort, showcasing New Jersey's trail diversity from urban corridors to natural forest paths. The consistent yellow blaze marking system provides reliable navigation guidance while the surface variety creates a unique ultra experience that tests adaptability as much as endurance.