Hot Mess Trail Races

Hot Mess Trail Races guides runners through Parvin State Park in Pittsgrove, New Jersey, starting and finishing at the Danna Farm Fields. The autumn event provides two options: a half marathon and a 6-hour ultra. Both races utilize mostly flat, fast trail loops with a short section of pavement. The event begins in the morning and concludes in the early afternoon, positioning the 6-hour option as a timed challenge rather than a set-distance competition. The course consists of approximately 95% trail, featuring winding single-track, sandy areas, and roots, yet the overall design accommodates beginners. Half marathon participants depart from the fields, complete two full circuits of the lollipop-shaped course, and access aid stations near miles 3.5 and 8.5. The 6-hour runners traverse a loop of about 4 miles repeatedly, returning to the start/finish area each lap for the sole aid station. This race is a South Jersey partnership with Second Capital Running, and all participants who finish will be awarded a medal and unique merchandise.