The Freight Train 100k/50k takes place on December 5th, 2026, in Farmville, Virginia, United States. This event is a companion race to the Night Train 50k held during summer and features three distance options: a half marathon (21.1K), a 50K, and a full century run (100K). The course follows the same rail trail as its summertime counterpart but in winter conditions. Runners will start at the Farmville Train Depot on West Third Street. The race begins at dawn with temperatures likely ranging from chilly to mild for December, depending on weather patterns that year. Participants can expect a firm and slightly soft trail surface suitable for running shoes or light hiking boots. The rail line offers scenic views of passing landmarks such as High Bridge, which runners will cross twice during the course's duration. This event attracts endurance athletes looking for winter ultra-distance challenges. Since its inception in previous years, the Freight Train 100k/50k has gained a reputation among ultrarunners and hikers alike. Each year sees an increase in participants eager to tackle this unique winter challenge. The race supports local businesses and community initiatives by raising funds for various causes through registration fees and sponsorships. The course is relatively flat, with total elevation gain of less than 1500 feet over the 100K distance. Runners start at a slight incline but quickly level off into an almost entirely flat trail that meanders alongside old rail lines. The terrain offers minimal obstacles for runners and hikers alike. Weather conditions on race day can vary widely, with temperatures ranging from below freezing to mild winter weather in the high 50s or low 60s Fahrenheit. Humidity levels are generally moderate due to Virginia's temperate climate. Runners should prepare for potential precipitation as well, ensuring they have appropriate gear for varying conditions.
Registration for participants is handled online via https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=139353. The registration fees are as follows: half marathon ($75), full 50K run or hike ($90 each), and the century challenge at $160 per runner. Early bird discounts apply until November 5th, after which shirt availability is not guaranteed due to supply chain constraints. Packet pickup occurs on Friday from 5:30-7pm and Saturday morning beginning at 6am at the Farmville Train Depot. All events begin and conclude at the same location: the Farmville Train Depot (510 W. 3rd Street). Runners must be aware of age restrictions, with older participants over sixty requiring permission to have a pacer for longer periods before race day by contacting the Race Director ahead of time. This ensures that all runners are prepared and informed about what to expect. The Freight Train 100k/50k in Farmville, Virginia on December 5th, 2026 is an event worth attending for its unique winter challenge and scenic trail conditions along historic rail lines. Runners who enjoy the blend of endurance testing with a dash of historical exploration will find this race particularly appealing due to its setting and community significance.
Races Offered
100K
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
100K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:30
sell
$160.00
50K
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
sell
$90.00
50K Hiker
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
sell
$90.00
1/2 Marathon
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
$75.00
Half Marathon Hiker
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
$75.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for December in Farmville.
thermostatTemperature
0.6° / 10.3°
wb_sunnyFeels like
-3.5° / 6.6°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
6h 41m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
2.6 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
0.2 cm
air
Avg wind speed
10.6 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
68.5%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
08:19
nightlight
Sunset
17:58
About Farmville
Learn more about the host city, Farmville.
Farmville is a college town in Virginia. Its economy is largely based on Longwood University and nearby Hampden-Sydney College. It is home to about 7,000 people (census, 1 April 2020)
