Dirt Monster Trail Race
Lace up for one of Pittsburgh’s grittiest fall trail adventures — the Dirt Monster Trail Race. Held in scenic North Park, this 5-mile cross country-style race is a true autumn classic, featuring rugged terrain, technical trails, and a notorious hill that has earned local legend status. Whether you're running solo or joining the spirited coed team competition, expect a challenging, energizing, and community-driven experience that supports a powerful cause: emergency child care for families in need.
Course Description
The race kicks off and finishes near the Grant Pavilion on Wildwood Road, just off Babcock Boulevard in McCandless, PA. From the starting line, runners dive immediately into hilly dirt roads and winding unpaved trails that demand both stamina and strategy. Just half a mile in, the course dishes out its signature gut-check: a steep, demanding hill that tests your early-race grit.
Once you've conquered the climb, the course transitions to single-track trails that twist through wooded sections of North Park — a scenic yet technical stretch that rewards focus and footwork. As the route begins to loop back, runners hit wider trails that provide space to open up the stride and push toward the finish. It’s a blend of grind and glory that trail runners won’t forget.
Coed Team Competition
Adding a fun and strategic twist, the Dirt Monster invites runners to form coed teams of 3 to 5 people. Each team must include at least one male and one female. For scoring, the fastest male and female times on the team count — plus one additional time, male or female.
All team members must register individually and are eligible for individual awards as well. There’s no cost to register your team; just provide your team name and members during registration. Note: Teams must be finalized by October 29.
Runner Experience
This is a no-frills, high-challenge event built for trail lovers who thrive on fall weather, technical dirt paths, and a strong sense of community. Music and distractions are left behind — headphones, strollers, and dogs are not allowed — keeping the focus on the trail and your fellow runners.
With a race-day energy that balances competitive drive and supportive camaraderie, you’ll feel the spirit of the Pittsburgh running community from the first step to the last.
Registration, Shirts & Packet Pickup
Day-of-race registration opens at 8:15 AM on Saturday, November 1. Please bring $25 in cash or check (payable to "Jeremiah’s Place").
Participants who register by October 17 can purchase a custom hoodie for $20 (note: no race shirt is included with registration this year).
A limited number of vintage race shirts will be available on race day for $5.
Packet Pick Up will be available at Grant Pavilion on Nov. 1 from 8:15 to 9:15AM..
Volunteers Welcome
Want to be part of the action without toeing the line? Volunteers are needed for registration, course support, and finish line duties — no experience required. All volunteers receive a Dirt Monster race shirt as a thank-you for their help.
If you're interested in volunteering, please send your name and contact information to ocdirections@verizon.net.
Giving Back
All proceeds from the Dirt Monster Trail Race directly benefit Jeremiah’s Place, a vital emergency child care resource serving families across the greater Pittsburgh area. Every stride you take helps provide care for children when their families need it most.
About the Organizers
The Dirt Monster Trail Race is organized by community volunteers committed to supporting Jeremiah’s Place, Pittsburgh’s only crisis nursery. This grassroots event reflects the best of the local trail running spirit — rugged, supportive, and rooted in purpose.
Event's current local time: 3:43 AM ET
