Friends of Yellow River State Forest Trail Run

Harpers Ferry, United States • 8-9 May 2026

Event overview

The Friends of Yellow River State Forest Trail Run/Walk is scheduled for Friday–Saturday, May 8–9, 2026, at Yellow River State Forest in Harpers Ferry, Iowa. The event includes these distances:

  • Friday 5K (trail)
  • Saturday 5K (trail)
  • 10K (trail)
  • Half-marathon (trail)

This is the seventh annual edition. Races will be timed. Because existing trails are used, course distances are not exact. Age-division winners will be named (male and female) in three groups: 17 and under; 18–49; 50 and over. Prizes will be awarded for first through third place in those divisions; winners receive a canvas photograph from within the state forest.

Location, registration and policies

Place: 737 State Forest Rd, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146. Online registration closes on May 6; walk-in registration is allowed. Registrants must be pre-registered to receive a shirt; the exact pre-registration deadline in April is to be determined. Fees listed by the organizer include standard entry prices and a multi-race "Dirty Double" discount for participants who join a Friday race plus a Saturday race. Dirty Double entries include a handcrafted race mug. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult; children over 12 must be registered. Well-behaved dogs on a leash are allowed. The event is organized by Friends of Yellow River State Forest, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit; funds raised are invested back into the state forest. Sponsorship levels with specified benefits are offered. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

Half Marathon
Half Marathon
10 km
10k
5 km
Saturday 5k
5 km
Fast, Flat, And Family-Friendly 5k
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Discover the scenic trails of Yellow River State Forest in Iowa's driftless region near Harpers Ferry with 5K, 10K and half marathon options. Tackle varied terrain, soak up valley views, and enjoy camaraderie and post race fun.