Mines Of Spain Trail Races

Mines of Spain Trail Races, Dubuque IA

The event offers trail races at EB Lyons Nature Center in Dubuque with three main distances and a free children’s mini race during Friday packet pickup. Registration opens March 6, 2026, and packet pickup takes place Friday evening and again on race morning.

Distances

• 4 mile
• 7 mile
• Half marathon

The courses run through the Mines of Spain park, including bluff climbs with views of the Mississippi, tall grass prairies, and dense hardwood forests. Terrain includes dirt single and double track, wide prairie grass trails, some rocky technical sections, and several steep climbs alongside smoother, rolling sections.

Aid stations provide water, Tailwind Nutrition drink, and basic sweet and salty snacks. There are two manned stations and one unmanned station at specified mile markers. The race is cup free and encourages runners, especially half marathon participants, to carry a handheld bottle or hydration pack. The course closes at four hours.

The event emphasizes environmental practices such as cup free racing, local food and beer at the post race, and a zero waste approach. Trolley shuttle service is provided to reduce parking congestion and environmental impact. Registration is online only; a wait list and a deferral option with conditions are in place if the race fills.

Awards are given to the top three overall male and female finishers for each distance and to age group winners. Event rules prohibit littering, course cutting, bib transfers, and abusive behavior. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.