Trail Running calendar near Ames 2026-2027

Trail races in Des Moines on April 4, 2026 offering 8 mile and 4 mile distances with clear course marking, basic timing, a custom bib, a rotating race item, and post race food.

This 5K trail race loops through the scenic Kuehn Conservation area along the Raccoon River. The course features prairie trails, woodlands, and floodplains. The event supports the local service projects of the Adel Rotary Club.

An inclusive community 5K in West Des Moines that promotes health equity and cultural awareness, with no finish times recorded and accessible paths at Raccoon River. Packet pick up and a concluding dance party are part of the event.

Experience an evening trail race through the woods and prairies of McFarland Park. This summer event offers 5K and 10K distances with post race food and games while supporting local conservation efforts.

The Iowa Trail Run Series: Sleepy Hollow will take place in Des Moines on Saturday 27 June 2026. You can run between 3 and 6 miles.

Join the Treat Trot Des Moines at Riverview Park for timed 15K, 10K, and 5K races or recreational 1 mile and kids runs. Enjoy chip timing, custom medals, and finish line snacks with the whole family.

Discover the scenic trails of Iowa's Whiterock Conservancy at this summer ultra. Choose between a 50K or 50-mile course that winds through the river valley. Your run helps support this 5,500-acre nonprofit land trust.

Experience a summer running tradition in Des Moines with distances including a half marathon, 10K, and 5K. Enjoy chip timed results, free photos, and finisher medals followed by ice cream at the finish line.

The Booneville Backroads Ultra takes runners through Iowa's rural countryside, including the Bridges of Madison County. New for 2026, the ultra courses will be marked, and crew support is permitted. A discount is available for female Trail..

Experience the Iowa Trail Run Series at Jester Park featuring 5K, 10K, and 10 hour enduro options. Run along the shores of Saylorville Lake past buffalo enclosures on a mix of grass and dirt trails.

Enjoy a 5k fun run starting and ending at Reclaimed Rails Brewing Company in Bondurant. Participants of all levels can run or walk a course passing Lake Petocka before celebrating with live music and local craft beer.

Experience the flowing single track trails of George Wyth State Park in Waterloo Iowa. Choose between 13km or 25km distances on a smooth and scenic course featuring woods and lakefront views.

Meyerhoff's Mayhem is a unique 48-hour endurance challenge in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Runners complete a 4-mile loop every 4 hours, with team relay and individual options. The event includes provided meals and commemorative gear, all held in mem..

A fall trail race in Brown's Woods, West Des Moines offering 5K, 10K and 15K on a 5K outer loop through single and double track dirt trails. Limited parking, course markings, and proceeds support local trail stewardship.

A trail running event at Whiterock Conservatory in Coon Rapids on November 7, 2026, offering 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and 30K distances with published entry fees by distance.

Choose your challenge at Jester Park in Iowa, with trail distances from 10 miles to 100 miles. The cupless race features rolling hills, a flat section, and basic aid stations. Pacers are welcome for the longer distances.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with a family friendly run in Des Moines featuring a Half Marathon, 10k, 5k, and Kids Dash. Every registered participant receives a designer shirt and finisher medal with treats waiting at the finish.

The Sycamore 8 is an 8-mile winter trail run on the scenic Sycamore Trail along the Des Moines River. The event is capped at 300 participants and features a post-race gathering. It takes place in Johnston, Iowa, during the first weekend of..

Celebrate the season at this festive Christmas themed event in Des Moines featuring distances from a Kids Dash to a 15k. Enjoy chip timed results and holiday treats at the finish line.