Fire and Ice Winter Run

50k | 25k | 10k

February 21st, 2026

Gilbert Lake State Park, Laurens NY

A late winter trail race for hardy cold weather runners to gather for the challenge, camaraderie, and preparation for bigger goals ahead. Given possible snowy conditions, runners have the option of running with or without snowshoes.

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*UPDATE #2*

I was out on the trails today (2.20.26) and wanted to share an update on current conditions, gear recommendations, and a few important race notes.

Trail Conditions
As of this morning, the trails are covered in a layer of wet, soft snow, which made running in standard trail shoes without traction very difficult. Snow depth varies but averages a few inches in most areas.

Gear Recommendations
At minimum, I recommend wool or waterproof socks and water-resistant footwear. Insulated winter running shoes or light hiking shoes will work best. Traction devices will be very helpful, and running snowshoes may make sections of the course significantly more runnable.

Course Update
Due to the conditions, I’ve adjusted the course. The updated route (Strava link below) will include a loop section of trail followed by two counterclockwise laps on the path around the lake:
https://www.strava.com/routes/3460016791943154548

Distance Changes
If conditions remain similar, the 50K will be extremely challenging to finish. As a reminder, all 25K and 50K runners are welcome to drop down to a shorter distance at any time:

If you drop down before the race, you will be eligible for awards in the new distance.
If you drop down during the race, you will receive an official finish for that distance but will not be eligible for awards.

Aid Station
We’ll have a fully stocked aid station with hot ramen and broth (veggie and chicken), plus bagels, bananas, pretzels, assorted cookies, Coke, water, and more.

UPDATE #1

See specific course information updates below in the Course Information section.
Distance drop-downs: Runners starting the 50k or 25k may drop down to a shorter distance for an official finish; however, they will not be eligible for overall awards in the shorter race.

• Trail conditions: A conditions report will be posted on the website late Friday. If anyone visits Gilbert Lake beforehand, please share updates so I can pass along accurate info.

• Aid station requests: If you have specific needs or requests, please email me before Friday.

Race Day Information

Check-in begins at 6:00 AM

Stay to the left as you enter the park through the main entrance

You will see the main parking area on the left

Registration will take place in Briggs Pavilion (the stone building by the lake)

A portable toilet will be available in the parking lot

General Info

The run will take runners on a looped course throughout the forests of Gilbert Lake State Park on a mix of single and double track trail, gravel paths, and roads. All aid including food, coffee, and warmth from fireplaces will be provided at the cabin located on Gilbert Lake. All finishers will receive a finishing award (most likely a coffee mug). Special awards will be provided to male, female, and masters winners. All net proceeds will be given to The Neighborhood Center.

Cost and Registration

Registration is through Ultrasignup

50k $45

25k $35

10k $30

Refunds and deferrals will be provided depending individual circumstances.

Location

Gilbert Lake State Park is located in New Lisbon, NY.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/47Et5c3qFJB8s9Mz7

20 min from Oneonta

1 hr 10 min from Binghamton

1 hr 45 min from Syracuse

1 hr 30 min from Albany.

Start Times

50k at 7am

25k at 8am

10k at 8:30am

Aid

All aid including drink mix, food, water, coffee, and warmth from fireplaces will be provided at the cabin.

Course

The 6+ mile loop course has about 625ft of elevation gain and consists mainly of trails. Runners completing the 50k will complete 5 loops, 25k will complete 2+ loops, and 10k will complete 1 loop. 50k runners will have until sunset to finish which allows for about 10 and a half hours (~ 20:30 min per mile pace).

Specific Notes

At the first intersection, runners will take a left turn away from the lake toward the Cabin Colony, continuing to follow all posted course markings.
Important: After returning to Briggs Pavilion for the first time, runners will begin a clockwise loop around the lake to complete a full lap of the course at Briggs.
Strava Route Link:

https://www.strava.com/routes/3423008195758969212

Winter Footwear Recommendations

Trail running shoes work well when surfaces aren’t too icy. For more demanding conditions, shoes designed specifically for winter trail running—some with built-in spikes—are a strong option. Gore-Tex shoes can also help keep feet dry. Gearjunkie.com has a solid review of winter running shoes if you want to compare options.

Traction devices are essential on slick surfaces. Yaktrax work well on hard-packed or icy terrain, Kahtoola Microspikes are ideal for a few inches of snow, and Atlas running snowshoes are best when snow depth really starts to add up.

Warm, weather-resistant socks make a big difference. Brands like Smartwool offer socks designed specifically for winter running. Waterproof socks provide an extra layer of protection, and Gore Shield Windstopper socks can be worn over winter socks for added wind and moisture resistance.

Charitable Cause

All net proceeds will be given The Neighborhood Center. The Neighborhood Center is a local nonproft that makes accessible a range of valuable human services including childcare/family services and mental health services. Learn more at https://www.neighborhoodctr.org/about/

Contact

The race is directed by Shawn Bubany, an experienced trail and ultra runner.

Reach out to Shawn with any questions at fireandiceraces@gmail.com

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