The Long Run - Fall Back

The Long Run - Fall Back returns to Wind Gap, Pennsylvania on November 8th, featuring a give or take 5 mile loop around Jacobsburg State Park. This event offers unique distance options: the full day 6-hour challenge, the half-day 3-hour endurance run, and a traditional 5-mile race for those looking for something shorter but equally challenging. The Long Run - Fall Back takes place in Wind Gap's scenic surroundings of Jacobsburg State Park, an area known for its rich history and natural beauty.
Race morning in November brings crisp air and the promise of clear trails underfoot. Participants will gather at the Equestrian Parking Lot near Sobers Run trailhead within Jacobsburg State Park to start their journey around the park’s single track and gravel trails that wind through thick forests and open meadows. The terrain features a significant elevation change of approximately 450 feet, making it an engaging challenge for both runners and hikers alike.
The Long Run - Fall Back is part of a larger series that has been running since its inception in Wind Gap’s community-driven environment, aiming to raise awareness and funds for the Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center. Each year sees growing numbers of participants embracing this unique race format, which challenges them physically while fostering camaraderie among runners, hikers, and walkers from across Pennsylvania.
The course itself is a loop around Jacobsburg State Park with varied terrain including single track trails that wind through dense woods alongside stretches of softer gravel paths by the river. The route offers scenic views and challenging elevation changes that make each lap distinct yet equally rewarding for those who choose to run or hike it in reverse as part of Fall Back edition. Start times vary based on distance: 7:30AM for the full day event with bib pickup required before 7AM, while shorter distances begin at 10:30AM with earlier registration cutoffs.
Weather conditions in November tend towards cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels compared to summer months. Trail conditions are firm yet slightly soft underfoot thanks to recent rainfall or ongoing maintenance of the park’s natural pathways. UV index remains low around a value of 2, indicating minimal risk for sunburn even on clear days.
The Long Run - Fall Back offers three distinct distance options: the full day 6-hour challenge, the half-day 3-hour endurance run, and an 8K (5-mile) race that provides participants with the opportunity to experience the park’s trails in a more traditional setting.