Winter can can mean only one thing: tuck away your running shoes and strap on your skis, right? Wrong! In fact, in many parts of the country, winter is when trail running is at its best.

To celebrate the fact that trail running is a year-round sport, we are proud to introduce our new Trail Runner Winter Warrior Race Series, featuring 48 trail races from January 1 through February 28.

The series features races in four categories—10K, half-marathon, marathon and ultra—from all across the country, divided into three regions: east, central and west. From the cool hardwoods and dirt trails of Tulsa, Oklahoma, to the canyons and slickrock ledges of Moab, Utah, there is truly something here for every kind of runner. Points are awarded per race—each race earns one point, with additional points for podium finishes. Top male and female warriors in each distance category will also be awarded prizes.

More info on points, prizes and races. 

The Grand Prize, entry in and travel to the TransRockies Run (a six-day stage race from Buena Vista to Beaver Creek, Colorado, valued at $2,000), goes to the runner who completes the most races in the most regions.

Winter Warrior Highlight Races

Post Oak Challenge

Distances: 50K, marathon, 25K, half-marathon, quarter-marathon
Dates: February 23-25, 2018
Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma

The event is spread over three full days. “The course is run through hills and valleys with two great views of Tulsa city landscape and the Oklahoma Botanical Garden,” says race director Johnny Spriggs.

Psycho Wyco Run Toto Run

Distances: 50K, 20-mile, 10K
Date: February 24, 2018
Location: Kansas City, Kansas

Even your dog can race. “All dogs are chip-timed, and receive finisher medals and finisher awards in their own canine division,” says race director Ben Holmes.  

Everglades Ultra

Distances: 50-mile, 50K, 25K
Dates: February 17, 2018
Location: Fakahatchee Strand Preserve, Florida

“People have seen panthers, bears, deer, bobcat, rare Florida mink, turkey and a huge assortment of wading and other bird species too numerous to mention,” says race director Bob Becker. “Oh, and probably a gator or two!”

The Duel

Distances: Marathon, half-marathon, 10K
Dates: January 20, 2018
Location: Wichita Falls, Texas

Trail runners and road runners can mingle at The Duel. Not only is there a trail race in the river corridor of the Wichita River, there is also a race on paved city trails.

Arches Ultra

Distances: 50-mile, 50K, half-marathon, 9K
Dates: January 27, 2018
Location: Moab, Utah

“The course runs along the border of Arches National Park, so the views are outstanding,” says race director Justin Hicks. “The beauty of the area makes it easy to forget that you are running a long way, because you are so entranced by the vistas.”

Complete list of races here.