Trail Running calendar near Ames 2025-2026

Join the Born to Run 5K at Confluence Brewing Co for a scenic looped trail and a fun 1 mile for kids. Professionally timed and family friendly, the event raises funds for Mary's Helping Hands to support families with young children.

Run the Stuffed Turkey Endurance Races at Jester Park on Nov 22, with trail loops from 10 mile to 100 miler. Several UTMB index distances, stocked aid stations, and finishers get a shirt and medal.

Celebrate Thanksgiving at Turkey Trails Des Moines at Gray's Lake Park on November 23 with family friendly distances from a Kids Dash to timed 5k and 10k. Enjoy designer shirts, finisher medals and live chip timing or run virtually.

Join the Get Roasted Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning in Waverly for a fun 5k on scenic park trails and a kids dash for ages 10 and under. Enjoy a designer shirt, finisher cap and hot cocoa while helping local family services.

Wrap up the season at Jester Park with the Iowa Trail Run Series Leftover Edition, offering casual 5K or 10K trail loops and a free kids run. Entry includes a bib and choice of leftover swag plus post race rolls and butter.

Run the Center Trails in Des Moines on April 4, 2026 with 8 Mile and 4 Mile options in the Iowa Trail Run Series. Enjoy marked courses, basic timing, a rotating race item, plus post race food and sponsor giveaways.

Run at McFarland Park near Ames in the Iowa Trail Run Series as the sun sets, with scenic 5K and 10K trails across single track, prairie and gravel. Enjoy race swag, post race food and community fun while supporting park conservation.