Presented by Marathon Printing

We are pleased to announce that Marathon Printing is returning as the Presenting Sponsor for the 2026 US Trail Running Conference. Marathon Printing has been a fixture in the running industry for more than three decades. Founded in 1989 in Oregon, the company built its reputation on producing high-quality race bibs, signage, wristbands, and event materials for races of all sizes, from local 5Ks to major marathons. Now led by Ryan Zirk, the third generation of family ownership, Marathon Printing remains a small, hands-on operation known for personal service, fast turnaround, and a genuine passion for the sport.

About the Event

The US Trail Running Conference is the premier gathering for the trail and ultrarunning community - a place where race directors, brands, athletes, media, and outdoor industry leaders come together to connect, learn, and shape the future of the sport.

Founded by Terry Chiplin and long recognized as a hub for education and collaboration within trail running, the conference enters an exciting new chapter under UltraSignup’s stewardship. Our goal is to honor the incredible foundation Terry built while expanding the event’s reach, elevating the experience, and helping grow the trail running ecosystem for years to come.

In 2026, we are excited to bring the conference to Nashville, Tennessee - a vibrant city that perfectly blends creativity, community, and outdoor spirit.

Mission

To strengthen the US trail running ecosystem - starting with race directors - by uniting directors, brands, media, and runners in a focused, community-driven conference to learn, collaborate, and grow the sport responsibly.

Vision

We envision the US Trail Running Conference as the gathering place for the people who make trail running possible - especially the race directors who create the experiences that define our sport. It’s a space where knowledge is shared openly, mentorship happens naturally, and meaningful connections are built across the community. By coming together each year, we strengthen not only our individual events, but the future of trail running itself - fostering a sport that continues to grow with integrity, inclusivity, and respect for the trails and communities that sustain it.

What to Expect

Full 3-Day Conference Registration: $275
make sure to register before June 30, 2026 to save 20% (price will increase to $350 on July 1)

• Access to all panels, sessions, and workshops.
• A curated networking app for professional connections.
• A swag bag with trail and Nashville-inspired gear.
• Lunch each day, plus snacks and beverages throughout.
• Evening mixers with sponsors and exhibitors.
• Optional group runs.

Sponsors and Exhibitors play a key role through the vendor village, activations, and mixers. For opportunities, contact @ultrasignup.com.

ATRA's Better Together Scholarship Program for the USTRC is back for it's 3rd year! Read all about the Better Together Scholarship Program and apply before June 1 if interested.

Schedule

The Conference covers three days of inspirational, educational and practical content geared towards trail race directors - including panels, presentations, and breakout sessions to share information and brainstorm ideas. The event also includes a top-level expo featuring vendors that provide products or services relevant to trail race directors.

The USTRC 2026 session lineup is still taking shape, but here’s a preview of the topics you can expect. This list is evolving, so check back for updates as we finalize the full schedule!

Topics Coming to USTRC 2026:

• Public Lands & How It Affects Trail Running
• Recruiting and Managing Volunteers
• Medical Guidelines for Every Size Race
• Race Sponsors & Other Revenue Streams
• Building a More Inclusive Race Community
• Marketing Basics for Any Budget
• Runner Experience
• Storytelling & Branding
• …and more!

While the full lineup isn’t finalized yet, you can expect sessions covering these themes and beyond. Stay tuned - we’ll share the complete schedule as details are confirmed!

In the meantime, we want to hear from you! ATRA is collecting input from race directors to better understand the needs shaping our sport. Whether you’re a new or seasoned race director, your perspective matters. Take a few minutes to complete the survey before the May 1 deadline: Share Your Feedback Here.

Please visit ustrailrunningconference.com for all the up-to-date details.

Accommodations

The US Trail Running Conference has a block of discounted rooms at the Tru By Hilton Nashville Downtown Convention Center

• 1/4 mile walk to Music City Center
• $209 + tax per room (until October 21 - while supplies last)
• Breakfast included
• Book online or call the hotel directly at 629.255.0303 and ask for the UltraSignup block

Why Attend?

Behind every great trail race is a community of people working quietly to make it happen. The US Trail Running Conference is where those people come together - to learn, to share, and to support one another.

By gathering in one place, we accelerate what would otherwise take years to build: trust, knowledge, and collaboration. The result is stronger events, stronger leaders, and a stronger future for the sport we all love.