5K or 10K or the new 25K trail course!!
From IMPACT,
IMPACT: Friends Improving Allegany County Trails, Inc. is hosting the second annual trail run through Phillips Creek, Turnpike, and Palmer’s Pond State Forests on the NYSDEC West Almond Trail System. The event will be held August 29, 2026, with participants gathering at the NYSDEC Phillips Creek State Forest parking area on State Route 244, west of Alfred, New York.
Divisions include a 5K/10K Walk and Run, adding a 25K trail course for runners seeking a greater challenge. All courses pass through rolling hardwood stands and sections of mature pines planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps, showcasing the beauty of Western New York. Each route highlights recent improvements and additions to the trails for user enjoyment.
The 5K route follows Trail 3, which had significant drainage improvements made in 2025 thanks to a generous grant from Parks & Trails New York and local donors, including the Bethesda Foundation and Allegany County Area Foundation.
REGISTER NOW
The 10K run and walk and the 25K run both travel over improved Trail 3, as well as a section of Trail 4 improved in 2026. In addition, both routes go past the Adirondack style lean-to overlooking a scenic beaver pond constructed by Andover High School Environment and Technology students. A solid timber bridge constructed by IMPACT volunteers and NYSDEC staff provides a dry crossing over an active stream on Trail 4. Another timber bridge on Trail 6, constructed by Alfred State College Construction Trades students has a seating bench for those needing a rest before climbing the rest of the grade and finishing at the trailhead of the Phillips Creek State Forest parking area
The newly added 25K trail run follows a mix of well-traveled and lesser-known Trails 8, 7, and 6, passing Palmer’s Pond and its surrounding stands of tall pines. Gravel and seasonal roads connect sections of Palmer’s Pond, Turnpike, and Phillips Creek State Forests. The route includes natural creek crossings, with a high chance of mud and wet spots on less-traveled trails. Its varied terrain features many small hills and several larger climbs, making this a scenic, exciting, and challenging 25K trail run.
Pre-registering will ensure your place and an athletic T-shirt to compete in this exciting summer event. IMPACT members receive a discount on registration. To join IMPACT, visit IMPACTfriendsgroup.org/join. To register visit, RUN/WALK 8.29.26 — IMPACT Friends Group. If you would like to volunteer to help on the day of the event, or be a sponsor of this great community activity, contact impactfriendsgroup@gmail.com. Proceeds from the event are used to support IMPACT’s efforts to improve the trails on public lands in Allegany County, New York.
