Trail Running Calendar Iowa 2026-2027

Trail races at Scott County Park in Long Grove, IA featuring 50K, 10 mile and 5 mile options on a roughly 10 mile loop with on-course aid stations and drop-bag and pacer policies for the 50K.

A backyard ultra at 2308 Victory Lane in Bussey, IA where runners complete a 4.167 mile loop each hour up to a 12 hour cap. Crews attend from a designated area and the last runner to complete one more lap than others is the winner.

A timed 4 hour and 8 hour trail endurance event on a 3.15 mile loop at Cedar Bend Park near Waverly, Iowa on September 5, 2026. Laps count only within the time limits and a main aid station serves the start and finish.

Booneville Backroads Ultra in rural Iowa offers 10K, 50K, 100K and 100 mile options over hilly backroads and the Bridges of Madison County. In 2026 courses will be marked, crew support is allowed, and Trail Sisters discounts are available.

The Loess Dirt Adventure Run in Glenwood Lake Park, Iowa on September 5, 2026 is an untimed trail event through Loess Hills terrain. The course features switchbacks, creek crossings and wooded sections, and finishers receive a Conqueror of..

Pleasant Creek Trail Run in Palo, Iowa offers three loop-based distances on the park's 15K equestrian outer loop and includes timing, awards and a post race cookout. The event is organized by the Eastern Iowa Trail Alliance.

Wabash Trace Running Festival in Shenandoah, Iowa follows the crushed limestone Wabash Trace Nature Trail and offers marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and a free kids mile. Races include well stocked aid stations and community support.

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.

A Backyard Ultra in West Point, Iowa with repeated 4.167 mile loops through Pollmiller Lake Park. Runners complete hourly loops until one runner remains while support and limited aid are available on site.

An obstacle trail event at Arrowhead Park near Neola, Iowa offering a 5K with 15+ obstacles and a 1 mile kids course. Competitive runners must complete all obstacles to qualify for top finisher medals and proceeds support local trails.

Experience the unique terrain of the driftless region at Yellow River State Forest. Choose from 5K 10K or half marathon distances and enjoy post race food games and sponsor giveaways.

A 5K untimed fun run at Reclaimed Rails Brewing Company in Bondurant on September 20, 2026, with an open course that highlights Lake Petocka. Registration includes a craft beverage and series swag, plus music, food trucks, and games.

An off road 5 Miles obstacle course in Saint Charles, Iowa on September 26, 2026, hosted by Contributors Breakfast Club; the local fundraiser keeps proceeds in Iowa and lets participants help design several obstacles.

A backyard ultra at Lake Ahquabi State Park where runners repeat **4.167 mile** laps on the hour until one runner completes one more lap than the rest. Aid is provided at the shelter and a midway station, with overnight lighting and headlam..

Trail race at George Wyth State Park in Waterloo IA offering 13K and 25K on runnable dirt single track. Limited on course aid and finish area food near Canfield Shelter.

A family-oriented mud run at Camp Sacajawea on September 26, 2026, with a 1-mile youth course and a 3-mile mud-obstacle course; proceeds benefit Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa and all participants receive a race shirt.

A weekend multi-sport event in Yellow River State Forest combining a mostly flat five mile trail run with catch and release fly fishing and local craft beer. Proceeds support coldwater and habitat projects in northeastern Iowa.

Trail race at Swiss Valley Nature Preserve near Peosta, Iowa, run on a 5.2 mile loop with significant elevation gain; distances include 5.2 miles, 25K, and 50K. Camping, free showers, and shuttle service are provided.

Navigate through Waubonsie Park using maps and instructions to find checkpoints in this final series race. Participants can compete solo or in teams for a self supported five mile orienteering challenge.

A chip timed 5K in Keystone, Iowa on 10/10/2026 where participants wear flag belts and encounter costumed zombies who try to pull flags. Proceeds support Keystone First Responders and Benton Girl's Wrestling.