Trail Running calendar near Ames 2026-2027

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.

Test your strength and stamina at this premier Iowa obstacle course featuring mud, climbing, and jumping across 5K and 6 mile distances. Compete for a gladiator sword or join a team for a weekend of physical challenges.

Test your endurance at George Wyth State Park by completing ten 5k runs every couple of hours over a full day. Enjoy hot meals and paved trails while working toward a unique handmade finisher prize.

A free community 5K walk and run at Saydel High School in Des Moines on May 16, 2026. The event features free food, family activities like bounce houses and a dunk tank, and a free medal for participants.

An inclusive community 5k in West Des Moines focused on health equity and cultural awareness. The event uses accessible trails and family friendly activities, with live music, storytime, and spaces for reflection and community connection.

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.

A trail running event at George Wyth State Park on July 11, 2026 offering team and individual races, with timing by True Time Racing Services and top three awards in each category.

Trail ultramarathon at Whiterock Conservancy in Coon Rapids, Iowa on July 25, 2026. Races include a 50K and a 50 mile on looped trails with regular aid stations and awards, with proceeds donated to the conservancy.

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.

A backyard ultra at 2308 Victory Lane in Bussey, IA where runners complete 4.167 mile laps every hour for up to 12 hours, with crew aid allowed between laps and a 12 hour race cap.

Test your limits at the Cedar Bend Endurance Event in Waverly, Iowa. Run as many laps as possible of a scenic 3.15 mile trail loop during a 4 hour or 8 hour timed challenge.

A rural ultra in Booneville, Iowa that runs through the Bridges of Madison County. Distances range from 10K to 100 mile, with marked ultra courses and limited crew support introduced for 2026.

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.

The Wild Boar Challenge is a 5-mile off-road obstacle course in Saint Charles, Iowa. Organized locally, it lets runners help design the obstacles they'll tackle. All funds raised support the local Iowa community.

A backyard ultra at Lake Ahquabi where runners complete repeating 4.167-mile laps, each within 60 minutes. The last runner to finish one more lap than anyone else wins; there is no preset race cap.

Trail race at George Wyth State Park offers a 13K single loop and a 25K two loop course on mostly smooth dirt single track. Aid stations are limited and post race food is available near Canfield Shelter.

A chip timed 5K in Keystone, Iowa on October 10, 2026 where runners wear flag belts and volunteers in makeup try to pull flags along the course. Proceeds go to Keystone First Responders and a secondary charity to be named.