Harepin Hustle Trail Run

The 3rd Annual Harepin Hustle Trail Run returns this spring with newly routed 10K+ (7.3 miles) and Half Marathon courses that start and finish at Lake Crabtree and wind through the trail network of Wake County’s newly acquired 286 property.  While much of the course is different from years past, the spirit of the race remains the same — a challenging, fun, and engaging day on the trails.

Due to the new trail layout, the event will not offer a 5K this year, and runners can expect a course that is more technical than previous editions, though still very runnable. The new courses feature flowy, forest-covered single-track mixed with hairpin turns, berms, punchy climbs, and short technical sections that reward focus and steady effort.

As in the past, race staging takes place on the park’s beautiful lakeside lawn.  After finishing, athletes can refuel and relax with post-race food, music, a free kids race, and an awards ceremony featuring fun contests and giveaways.

A Note from Roadless Races

Past Harepin Hustle runners will notice that this year’s course looks different. Changes to trail access at Lake Crabtree required a full reroute, and while we know many runners loved the previous trail system — us included — our goal was to thoughtfully redesign the race rather than walk away from a venue that has meant so much to so many.

The result is a course that asks a bit more of runners than in years past, but one we believe remains true to the character of the Harepin Hustle. We appreciate the patience and trust of our trail community as we adapt, and we’re proud to continue hosting this race at Lake Crabtree.

Harepin Hustle Course Maps and Description

The Harepin Hustle 10K+ and Half Marathon feature lollipop-style courses that start and finish at Lake Crabtree, with a shared 2.1-mile out-and-back stem before entering the 286 trail network.  Both races complete a clockwise outer loop of flowy, forested single-track with hairpin turns, berms, and short, punchy climbs; Half Marathon runners add an inner loop and a second lap of the outer loop before returning to the finish.  The trails are moderately technical with roots and rocks, offering a challenging but very runnable experience.  Distances and elevation gain: 10K+ (7.3 miles, 507’) and Half Marathon (13.2 miles, 983’).

Harepin Hustle 10K+ & Half Marathon:
Overall Technical Rating: 3+ out of 5

Terrain Rating Scale

1 – Easiest: Wide dirt roads, smooth single-track, grassy or paved surfaces; minimal rocks or roots; some moderate hills
2 – Easy: Occasional roots and rocks with mostly smooth trail; some moderate hills
3 – Moderate: Frequent roots and rocks mixed with smoother sections; short punchy climbs and gradual inclines; some flat sections
4 – Difficult: Extensive roots and rocks; frequent climbs; very few flat sections
5 – Most Difficult: Constant roots and rocks; sustained climbing with minimal flat terrain