
From the Organizer
THIS RACE IS PART OF THE USATF MID-ATLANTIC OFF-ROAD SERIES.
Lace up your trail shoes and get ready to moo-ve it at Brandywine Valley's First State Trail Race! This scenic and unique race winds through the rolling hills, farmland, and woodlands of the Brandywine Creek State Park and First State National Historical Park, offering stunning views and an unforgettable challenge for runners of all levels.
Choose your pasture:
10K: A gentle romp through the farmland and forests, perfect for beginners or those looking for a scenic shakeout run.
25K: Test your mettle on this moderately challenging course that takes you up and down the park's hillier terrain, with plenty of farm vistas and creek crossings to keep you company.
50K: For the ultimate endurance test, tackle the 50K course, a true odyssey through the heart of the park, past babbling brooks, hidden ponds, and maybe even a few friendly farm animals.
What to expect:
Rolling hills and challenging climbs: Get your heart pumping and your legs burning as you conquer the Brandywine Valley's varied terrain.
Scenic vistas: Soak in the beauty of the Brandywine Valley, with its lush forests, meandering creeks, and charming farmland.
Farm encounters: Keep an eye out for our bovine and equine neighbors, who may be grazing along the course (don't worry, they're friendly!).
Post-race celebration: Refuel with ultra fare prepped by our amazing volunteer team and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow runners.
More than just a race:
The First State Trail Race is more than just a competition; it's an opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Brandywine Creek State Park in a unique way. So, whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a weekend warrior, come join us for a moo-vellous day of running, adventure, and community.
**Shirt cut off date: One month from race day**
Distances & Pricing
Race Location
About This Sport
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
The 10K is the distance where running stops feeling like a starting point and starts feeling like a sport. Long enough to require a real training block. Short enough that race day is fully manageable for a first-timer who's put in the work.
Race day energy at a 10K is community at its best — strangers cheering you by name, people moving toward the same goal, an atmosphere that solo training can't replicate. It's fast enough that you'll spend the whole race pushing rather than managing your effort.
This is also the distance that builds the base for everything else. Most athletes who go on to run half marathons, do triathlons, or compete in HYROX started here. What you need: running shoes fitted to your stride, a training plan, and the race on your calendar. The registration is what makes the deadline real.
How long to train: 4–8 weeks for most fitness levels.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
17th Annual Indy 5K & Color Us Kids Run
Red White & Brew 5K
43RD SEASHORE 5 MILER (SS Summer Series #8)
Running Hot Clayton Fire 5K
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
First State Trail Race
May 17, 2026