The Summit Run 5K returns to Hadley, Massachusetts on September 20th, 2026, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for runners and walkers alike. Starting at Skinner State Park, the race winds through Hockanum Village with its historic homes and picturesque scenery. The course includes an initial warm-up of .4 miles uphill on Mountain Rd before turning right onto Old Mountain Rd., providing a fast descent over .6 miles down to the turnaround point at mile 1. As runners approach mile two, they pass through Skinner State Park gate and begin climbing towards the water stop, where hydration is available. The final stretch involves an ascent of 800 feet on a paved road leading up to the summit finish line atop Mt. Holyoke. The race finishes with breathtaking views over the Connecticut River Valley below, making this not just a physical challenge but also a visual spectacle for all participants and spectators alike. This iconic event has been held annually since its inception in 1986, celebrating over four decades of community support, fitness promotion, and environmental stewardship. Course Description The Summit Run 5K road race offers a total distance of five kilometers (3.1 miles), including an initial .4-mile warm-up uphill on Mountain Rd., followed by a descent through Hockanum Village. At mile two, runners will pass through Skinner State Park gate and face the final steep climb to the summit finish line atop Mt. Holyoke.
Registration Details Register early before August 31st at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/138415/summit-run-5k and save $5.00 on your entry, plus receive a Tech T-Shirt if you sign up by that date. Senior runners aged 65 years or older can also save $5.00 when registering early. Bib Pickup Participants should pick up their bibs at the race venue one hour before the start time. Bring photo ID and proof of payment, as well as a reusable water bottle for hydration during the course. Start Location Address The race begins in Skinner State Park, located on Mountain Rd., Hadley, Massachusetts 01038. The starting point is near the park's main entrance off Route 5 North. Logistics Participants can register online at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/138415/summit-run-5k for a fee of $38.53, with early bird pricing available until August 31st. Registering after that date will incur the full race cost. Race Roster adds credit card processing fees to your total cost upon registration. Awards will be presented at the summit finish line, including cash prizes for first place overall male and female, as well as age group winners in various categories. The weather on September 20th is expected to feel like an average temperature of 17.9°C with a minimum of 12.7°C and a maximum of 23.1°C. The humidity will be around 78.8%, and there's a slight chance of light rainfall, but overall conditions should provide runners with firm yet slightly soft terrain underfoot. The race concludes at the finish area near the parking lot, where participants can enjoy free refreshments after crossing the line. Timing services are provided by Rat Race Timing, ensuring accurate results for every runner who completes the course. Closing The Summit Run 5K in Hadley, Massachusetts on September 20th is worth attending not just because of its scenic finish but also due to the support it provides to Kestrel Land Trust and the overall community. This event combines physical challenge with environmental stewardship, making it a memorable experience for all participants.
Races Offered
Summit Run 5K Road Race
Sep 20, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:30
sell
$38.53
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Hadley.
thermostatTemperature
12.7° / 23.1°
wb_sunnyFeels like
11.8° / 22.7°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
8h 59m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.9 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
7.6 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
78.8%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:30
nightlight
Sunset
18:58
About Hadley
Learn more about the host city, Hadley.
Hadley is a small town in the Pioneer Valley, in Western Massachusetts. Despite its small population, it has a reasonable commercial strip that harbors a few malls, providing a more mainstream shopping experience than its larger neighbors, Amherst and Northampton.
