Trail Running Calendar Iowa 2026-2027

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 on 4.167 mile loops through Pollmiller Lake Park in West Point, IA, where runners start a new loop each hour until one runner outlasts the rest. Camping, limited aid, and water are provided.

A 5K obstacle trail run and a 1 Mile kids obstacle course at Arrowhead Park near Neola, Iowa on September 19, 2026. The event features multiple obstacles, optional Open Wave participation, and top-10 medals for Competitive Wave finishers.

Trail run at Wapsi River Environmental Education Center with a self timed 5K and 1 mile course, proceeds benefit the Friends of the Wapsi Center.

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 community 5k at Reclaimed Rails Brewing Company in Bondurant Iowa on September 20 2026 where participants can run walk or jog the course and finish with a celebration at the brewery.

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 looped backyard ultra at Lake Ahquabi where runners complete a 4.167-mile lap each hour until one runner outlasts the rest. The trail is mostly dirt with lake views; overnight runners must carry a headlamp.

Trail race at George Wyth State Park near Waterloo IA offering 13K single loop and 25K two-loop courses with limited on course aid and post-race food.

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 non timed 1 mile and 3 mile walk and run around Hickory Grove Lake at Snow Bunting Lodge. The event raises funds for Chase Away K9 Cancer in memory of a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog named Remy and welcomes pets.

A weekend multi-sport event in Yellow River State Forest combining trail running, catch-and-release fly fishing, and craft beer. Organized by Running Rivers, proceeds support habitat improvement and promote responsible outdoor recreation.

Trail race at Swiss Valley Nature Preserve in Peosta, IA on October 3, 2026, offering 5.2 mile, 25K and 50K multi loop courses with creek crossings and steep rugged terrain. Free camping, 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.

Trail run and walk at Backbone State Park on October 10, 2026 with two route choices: a 4 mile loop and a 10K lake loop. Day of registration is available and proceeds support Backbone State Park.

A charity running event in Solon, Iowa featuring a timed 5K and a Monster Mile, with all proceeds to the Arthritis Foundation to support pediatric rheumatic disease awareness.

A community 5K run and walk at the Iowa Arboretum on October 10, 2026 supporting the Foundation for the BAHS, with packet pickup and dog friendly amenities.

A loop-based trail event near Dubuque, IA, offering **100 mile** and **100 km** options on varied terrain with significant elevation and multiple scenic overlooks of the Mississippi River.

Meyerhoff's Mayhem is a 48 hour endurance event at Big Woods Campground in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Runners do 4 mile loops every 4 hours in individual or team relay formats while meals, finish medals, and participant sweatshirts are provided.