The Best 5Ks in Glens Falls, NY: Race On
Annual 5Ks & Road Races
Whether you’re a seasoned racer or casual walker looking to get more fit and enjoy a sense of community, Glens Falls has earned a reputation as a premiere running destination in the North Country. Check out the best 5Ks in Glens Falls, NY (plus, one 5-miler!) for 2026: Shamrock Shuffle, Harrison Freer Rotary Community 5K Run/Walk, Thunder 5K, Glens Falls Hospital Aloha 5K, Goblin Gallop 5K Run/Walk, and Gobble Wobble.
See details for all six races below, or jump to logistics or FAQ.
The 2026 Glens Falls Race Calendar
From spring thaws to Thanksgiving morning, these are the best 5Ks in Glens Falls, NY - starting with one that’s a bit longer than a 5K!
The Shamrock Shuffle & Leprechaun Leap
Date: March 15, 2026
Location: Glens Falls High School (10 Quade Street)
Distance: 5-Mile Road Race (Shuffle) & ⅞-Mile Kids Fun Run (Leap)
Beneficiary: Project Cameron’s Story
Vibe: It’s all about St. Patrick’s Day and donning your best green racewear! This road race travels through busy roads and it’s an open course, so be safe, alert, and stay to the right.
Harrison Freer Rotary Community 5K Run/Walk
Date: April 18, 2026
Location: SUNY Adirondack Campus (640 Bay Road, Queensbury)
Distance: 5K
Beneficiaries: The Open Door Mission, Comfort Food Community Pantry, and Haynes House of Hope
Vibe: Held in honor of the late Harrison Freer, a beloved local pilot and community leader, this race brings the rotary spirit to SUNY Adirondack.
Thunder 5K
Date: April 26, 2026 (used to take place in the fall)
Location:Harding Mazzotti Arena (1 Civic Center Plaza)
Distance: 5K
Beneficiary: Glens Falls Civic Center Foundation
Vibe: For the sports lovers, this race used to coincide with the start of Adirondack Thunder hockey season.
Glens Falls Hospital Aloha 5K & 1-Mile Fun Walk
Date: May 30, 2026
Location:Haviland’s Cove Park (Bush Street)
Distance: 5K & 1-Mile Fun Walk
Beneficiary: Amanda’s House at Glens Falls Hospital
Vibe: It’s all about the tropical feels, beach tunes, and a family-friendly party at the Cove.
Goblin Gallop 5K & Halloween Hop
Date: October 31, 2026
Location: Abraham Wing School (120 Lawrence Street)
Distance: 5K (Gallop) & 1-Mile (Hop)
Beneficiary: Adirondack Runners Scholarship Fund and the Nepal Village School Project
Vibe: Halloween costumes galore - especially this year, as it takes place on actual Halloween!
Glens Falls Gobble Wobble
Date: November 26, 2026 (details to be announced)
Location: The Open Door Mission (47 Lawrence Street)
Distance: 5K
Beneficiary: The Open Door Mission
Vibe: Gratitude and giving! Runners typically join in a prayer and announcements right before running.
Race Day Realities: Logistics, Layers & Leaving Early
Packet Pickup
Know when you’re picking up your packet with your bib, tee-shirt, and potential other swag. Race organizers will detail when packet pickup is - ahead of the race that morning, and sometimes also the night before.
Swag Bag Strategy
Then, what are you doing with your bag/packet? Putting on the bib and tee-shirt? Bringing the tee-shirt back to your car? Know the plan and how long it will take, so you can make sure you’re at the race start on time. You may be parking aways from the race start.
The Cold Weather Challenge
For the Gobble Wobble in particular, but possibly also the Shamrock Shuffle or any race that might be held during cold weather - the walk from your car to the race start with no jacket on has the potential to be brutal.
Plan to get dropped off, hand your coat to your friend, tie it around your waist, or whatever you need to do. Once you’re running you’ll be warm, but waiting for the race to start can get chilly!
Glens Falls 5Ks & Road Races: FAQS
Which race is best for a personal record?
The Shamrock Shuffle and the Goblin Gallop are the top picks for speed, as they're both "fast and flat" loop courses.
Can I bring my dog or a jogging stroller?
Most races are stroller-friendly, but do not allow dogs. Even if it's not explicitly stated they're forbidden, it's often discouraged for insurance and other reasons. Check with individual race organizers as needed.
Where is the best place to park for downtown races?
For the Thunder 5K at the Harding Mazzotti Arena, try the parking lots on Elm Street or South Street, or otherwise street parking will do. For The Open Door Mission, overflow parking used to go to East Field, but that's a long walk in the cold! Street parking nearby is permitted.
Do I have to run or can I walk?
These races all use professional chip timing, with the chip attached to your race bib, but they're all pretty walker-friendly.
What happens if it rains or snows?
Unless the weather is deemed unsafe, the race goes on!
Do I have to register in advance?
It's recommended to do so, although you may be able to register the day of. Prices may be higher if you wait until the day of the race, and a race shirt won't be guaranteed.
How much do the races cost?
Races usually cost around $30 to participate, or $35 if you register the day of. Kids often cost less, whether they're doing the 5K or one of the "fun runs."
Enjoy running - or walking! - in these annual 5Ks in Glens Falls!
🚶 Explore top walking paths around Glens Falls >>
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