Lace Up: The Best Lake George Races & 5Ks for 2026
From casual jogs to hardcore races, Lake George is a prime destination for runners, hikers, and swimmers alike. Discover the best Lake George races and 5Ks below, with a couple of bonus related events:
Prospect Mountain Road Race
Wine Run 5K
Adirondack Race to the Lakes
ADK 5K
Lake George Land Conservancy Hike-a-Thon
Lake George Triathlon Festival
And, Frequently Asked Questions on Lake George races and 5ks!
Prospect Mountain Road Race
Date: May 9, 2026
Distance: 5.67 miles (straight up!)
Beneficiary: Michelle Lafontaine SUNY Adirondack Nursing Scholarship Fund
For those who think a standard flat 5K is too easy, the Prospect Mountain Road Race offers the ultimate Adirondack challenge. This race starts at the road gate and climbs 1,601 feet over a paved road to the summit of the Prospect Mountain. While the views of the lake from the top are spectacular, the incline is relentless.
Note, dogs, strollers, and bikes are not permitted. See our FAQ for tips on navigating the summit-to-base transport.
Wine Run 5K
Date: May 17, 2026
Distance: 5K (3.1 miles)
Beneficiary: Nik's Wish
A brand-new addition to the list of Lake George 5Ks for 2026, the Wine Run 5K combines fitness with fine local flavors. Starting and finishing at Ledge Rock Hill Winery, this race is perfect for those who want a scenic run followed by a celebratory pour.
Note, strollers are allowed but not recommended due to the uneven nature of the winery's course. No dogs are allowed.
Adirondack Race to the Lakes
Date: June 20, 2026
Distance: 7.5 miles
Beneficiary: Local fire departments, rescue squads, and TAR scholarships
The Adirondack Race to the Lakes is one of the most popular point-to-point Lake George races. Runners begin at SUNY Adirondack in Queensbury and follow the scenic Warren County Bikeway all the way to the finish line at Lake George Battlefield State Park. It is a fantastic way to see the transition from the city to the lakeside.
No dogs or strollers allowed; dogs are not allowed on the Warren County Bikeway at all.
Buses are available at the finish line to bring you back to the car at the start.
ADK 5K
Date: September 19, 2026
Distance: 5K (3.1 miles)
Beneficiary: Lake George Land Conservancy
The ADK 5K is the quintessential fall race in Lake George. The start and finish is the Adirondack Pub & Brewery. Although this is a family-friendly 5K, this is one of the more "hardcore" ones in the region, and tends to draw serious runners. Stick around for post-race festivities at the brewery!
One unique aspect of this race is that participants typically receive a commemorative glass and high-quality running socks (with an optional upgrade for a tee-shirt). You also get a free beer after you finish!
Bonus: Lake George Hike-a-Thon
Date: July 5, 2026
Distance: Varies
Beneficiary: Lake George Land Conservancy
Trade your running shoes for hiking boots for the Lake George Hike-a-Thon, a popular event that takes place at multiple locations with varying distances and difficulties, including at The Sembrich and Silver Bay YMCA.
This event fills up fast! Registration typically opens in March and is closed by the end of April.
Bonus: Lake George Triathlon
Date: September 5 & 6, 2026
Distance: Varies
Beneficiary: Lake George Land Conservancy
Go running and beyond with the Lake George Triathlon Festival, which offers Sprint, Olympic, and Long Course distance options. This two-day event features a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake, a bike through the Adirondack foothills, and a run through the Village.
A USAT membership is required for all participants.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Lake George 5Ks & Races
How do I get back to my car for point-to-point races?
For the Prospect Mountain Road Race, there is a shuttle back to SUNY Adirondack, but it can take some time to fill, and navigate down the mountain road. Participants often choose to carpool, having one car drive to the summit ahead of time, then drive together in a second car down to the starting gate. After the race, you can drive back down in the car parked at the top. For the Adirondack 7-Mile Race to the Lakes, there are buses that return runners to their vehicles at SUNY Adirondack.
Are dogs and/or strollers allowed?
Dogs are generally not allowed at 5Ks, and strollers sometimes are. Those with dogs and/or strollers are usually asked to start at the back for safety reasons. Check with individual race organizers to see what's allowed.
Do these race benefit local charities?
Yes! They all benefit a local organization; three of them have proceeds going to the Lake George Land Conservancy, which helps protect the lake's water quality.
🏃 Looking for more? Check out the Best 5Ks in the Glens Falls area!
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