Hard Times Trail Run - Willard, MO

Hard Times Trail Run : Willard, MO

Hard Times Trail Run is an on-trail event at Little Sac Woods Conservation Area east parking lot near Willard, Missouri. The event offers three distance choices with a mix of loop and lap formats.

• 8 mile
• 25K
• 50K

The 8 mile course is a lollipop-style route with nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain. The terrain includes runnable sections, steep climbs, downhills, small creek crossings, some briars, and no switchbacks. The 25K and 50K distances use a lap format with alternating lap directions.

The field is limited to 50 runners. There are two aid stations: Start/Finish and a halfway aid station at about four miles. Drop bags are accepted for 25K and 50K runners; runners may leave personal belongings at the Start/Finish. Porta-potties will be available on site.

Parking is limited on site and is reserved for 50K entrants only. 8 mile and 25K runners must use off-site parking at Noble Hill Baptist Church with shuttle transportation to the Start/Finish. Carpooling is encouraged; hitchhiking is discouraged.

All runners receive a shirt and a finisher award; 50K runners receive additional items. First place overall male and female finishers in each distance receive special prizes. Proceeds support Headington Hill Classical Academy, a 501c3 organization. Swag requests are not guaranteed for registrations after February 15, 2026.

Dogs are allowed on leash. Bug spray, trail shoes, and trekking poles are recommended. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.