Flats Trail Half Marathon
Kirksville, United States • 3 Oct 2026
Race Overview
The FLATS Trail Half Marathon is a point-to-point trail running event held in Kirksville, Missouri. The event has been organized for over 15 years. All proceeds from the race go to the Forest Lake Area Trail System to support trail building and maintenance in Adair County.
Course and Support
The course is a half marathon (21.1 km). The first 1.5 miles are on a road, followed by forested trails alongside a lake. The course features roots, rocks, hills, and a water crossing. There are seven aid stations along the route, providing water, sports drink, snacks, and gels. A shuttle bus transports runners from the finish line at Jackson Stables to the start line at the Thousand Hills State Park Marina before the race.
Inclusivity and Policies
The event offers nonbinary registration categories with equal podiums and prize money. It adheres to the Trail Sisters Approved Standards, offering a women’s cut t-shirt option, menstrual products at aid stations, and a pregnancy/postpartum deferral option. The race partners with the Trail Mix Fund to assist BIPOC runners, LGBTQIA+ runners, and runners facing financial barriers. A gear drop service is available to transport one bag per person from the start to the finish line.
Registration and Logistics
Packet pickup is available the day before the race at the ATSU Thompson Campus Center and on race morning at the start line. The registration policy allows for a 50% credit towards the following year's event up to two weeks before the race, and entries may be transferred to another runner until October 2, 2026. Earbud use is discouraged on the course for safety. The event is held rain or shine, though management reserves the right to alter the course for safety.
Post-Race and Awards
The finish line celebration includes food such as pizza and fruit, drinks, and sometimes live music. Custom finisher's medals are awarded. Prize money is awarded to the top three overall finishers in the female, male, and nonbinary categories. The top three finishers in each age group receive a commemorative pint glass. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.