Cross-country takes place somewhere other than a track and (usually) over a distance of 3-5 kilometers (1.9-3.1 miles), depending on age divisions and the distance desired by coaches.
In races sponsored by national organizations, kids usually run against others within a year of their age. In school meets, kids usually run against competitors of various ages in the intermediate/ middle school range and the high school range.
Races are run at a variety of locations--on school property, golf courses, parks, and so on. Courses can involve any of the following conditions: sharp twists and turns, long straightaways, flats, hills, even and uneven ground, and in the open or through trees. Surfaces can be any combination of grass, asphalt, gravel, and dirt/mud. Chalk lines and flags are often used to help runners follow the route. Cross-country season is traditionally during the late summer and autumn months. Track running events take place on a flat, level
surface. Distance events for youth are usually in
the 800-3000 kilometer range (about 1/2-2 miles).
Age division competition is like that described
above for cross-country.
With no sharp twists and turns, a nice surface, and (sometimes) more protection from wind, there are less distractions at track meets than at cross-country and road races. This usually results in faster times run.Track meets are held on outdoor tracks during spring and summer and on indoor tracks year-round.Road Races vary from "fun runs" just for kids
(usually 1/4-1/2 mile) to races for all ages at
distances of 1-2 miles, 5K-10K (3.1 and 6.2
miles), and longer. Most experts recommend
that pre-teen kids not run races longer than 5k
on a regular basis since leg bone shape and
density is still developing.
Road races usually take place on a combination of concrete or asphalt roads and hiking/biking trails, which usually have a surface of either dirt/mud or crushed limestone. Road race courses offer many of the same challenges as described for cross-country races.Road races are run throughout the year, with fewer in Janurary and February due to cold weather. 
