Trail Running Calendar Iowa 2026-2027

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 multi-sport weekend in October combining trail running, fly fishing, and craft beer at Yellow River State Forest near Harpers Ferry, Iowa. It features a mostly flat five mile trail run, catch and release trout fishing, and fundraising for..

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.

A trail running event at Backbone State Park in Dundee, Iowa, on Saturday, October 10, 2026, organized by Backbone Lake Friends, offering a 4.3 mile Original route and a 10K Lake Loop with stated difficulty levels.

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 Midwest trail ultramarathon in Dubuque that uses a roughly 20 mile loop through the Mines of Spain Recreation Area. Options include a 100 mile five loop race and a 100K three loop race with substantial elevation gain.

A 48 hour endurance event at Big Woods Campground in Cedar Falls, IA with solo and 2 to 4 person relay options. Runners complete 4 miles every four hours, with on course food, water, participant sweatshirts, and finisher medals.

Trail races at Geode State Park with 5k, 12k and 25k options, two aid stations and water at the beach shelter. The event raises funds for the park's concession building and includes a race t-shirt; youth receive a discount.

Trail races on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail in Council Bluffs offering 50K, half marathon and 10K options. Field is limited to 200 runners, events are chip timed with aid stations and crushed limestone out and back courses.

A fall trail race in Brown's Woods, West Des Moines, offering 5K, 10K and 15K looped courses on single and double track dirt. Proceeds support local trail stewardship groups.

Experience the seasonal beauty of Clayton County at the Pony Hollow Trail 15K and 5K. Run through the historic Motor Mill park area and enjoy the autumn foliage on this established trail course.

The Iowa Trail Run Series: Whiterock takes place November 7, 2026 at Whiterock Conservatory in Coon Rapids, Iowa. Offered distances include 5K, 10K, a half marathon and a new 30K option, with registration opening November 11, 2025.

Miner 49er in Dubuque, IA features 25K and 50K runs on single-track and prairie trails with significant elevation gain, three aid stations, and views of the Julien Dubuque Monument, Horseshoe Bluff, and the Mississippi River.

A six hour trail endurance run at Pinicon Ridge Park near Central City, Iowa, on a 1.2 mile loop with two large climbs and stairs. Course direction changes every two hours and the event includes aid station food, a race shirt, and awards.

Born to Run 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run start at Confluence Brewing Company in Des Moines with chip timing and finish line video. Proceeds benefit Mary's Helping Hands and the event welcomes walkers, strollers and leashed dogs.

A trail endurance event at Jester Park in Granger, Iowa offering 10 Mile, 50K, 50 Mile and 100 Miler options. The race is cupless, includes shirts and medals, and the longer distances are UTMB index races.

Turkey Trails in Des Moines is an annual Thanksgiving themed running event on November 22, 2026 at Gray's Lake Park with on-site races from a kids dash to a half marathon and a virtual option. Features include chip timing, event shirts, med..

Sycamore 8 is a December trail race in Johnston, Iowa, run on single-track dirt along the Des Moines River. It features rolling terrain, river views, varied winter conditions, and a 300-runner entry cap.

Multi-loop trail races at Hitchcock Nature Center with staffed aid stations, mandatory personal hydration, and distances from a Half Marathon to 100 miles. Field is limited and specific pacer and drop bag rules apply.

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.