The Salisbury Beast 5K 2026 — Salisbury, CT

Join us for year EIGHT of Connecticut's most monstrous 5k in the majestic hills of Salisbury Connecticut. Our third year as a USATF certified course, is specially dedicated this year to Peter Hawley, who was a runner among runners and the most generous champion of race directors across Connecticut, certifying hundreds of races and doing double duty to raise money and awareness. The route climbs what feels like 1,000 ft in the first mile, but gains an actual 500 feet at mile 1.3 before runners turn around at the top of Lincoln City Road, and fly back down the same steeps, flanked by extraordinary views of Lake Wononscopomuc during autumn's final peak. As always, this run is fun(d)raiser with proceeds supporting evidence-based adventure and arts and educational programming for people ages 12-20 in order to prevent the elevated risks for alcohol and drug abuse faced by young people in rural areas of New England where the overdose rate is among the highest in the state. To date, we have raised over $7,500 for organizations making a difference. This year a portion of race proceeds and all additional donations will support Catamount Resort's National Ski Patrol Young Adult Program (YAP) an organization aligned with our mission, which is to bring forth the best of the BEAST in all of us. Our majestic and evergreen course has welcomed runners from all over the Eastern Region who enjoy the quintessential views and vibe of old-world New England in the autumn. This corner of Connecticut offers every adventure, play and recreational opportunity, making the event fun for the whole family.