Big River Unpaved
Manchester, United States • 19-28 Apr-Jun 2026
Program Overview
Big River Unpaved is a training program designed for individuals interested in trail running and hiking within the St. Louis metro area. The program focuses on introducing participants to outdoor trails through guided group excursions. It is structured to provide support for both runners and walkers, emphasizing trail etiquette, technique, and navigation in a social setting.
The program includes the following activities:
- Weekly trail excursions held on Sunday mornings at various locations.
- Thursday evening outings during the spring season.
Excursions take place at different natural sites, some of which may require a drive of 30 minutes or more from the city center. Registered participants receive a location schedule and a weekly email newsletter to stay informed about upcoming meetups.
Participation and Safety
This program is open to participants of various experience levels, including those new to off-road environments. Experienced guides accompany the groups to offer motivation and technical advice. Participants who choose to hike are expected to maintain a pace faster than 2.5 mph (24:00 per mile) to remain with the guided group. Those moving at a slower pace are welcome but may find themselves outside of the guide-supported section.
Ruckers are also invited to join the sessions. For safety reasons, participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a guardian at all times during the trail excursions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.