Pére Malfait Trail Race

Pere Malfait Trail Race - November 21, 2026

The Pere Malfait Trail Race takes place at Bussey Brake Wildlife Management Area near Bastrop, LA. The event offers three distances on trails around Bussey Brake Reservoir:

• 50K
• 16 Miler
• 8 Miler

The venue includes an 8-mile trail that follows the top of the reservoir levee. The course is described as very flat with uneven sections, holes, and large ant piles. The front side of the loop is exposed to sun while the back side has shade. The area is used for hiking, non-motorized biking, horseback riding, and winter waterfowl birdwatching.

Two aid stations are provided: a fully manned station at the start/finish offering hot food, and an on-course station at about 4 miles supplying ice, water, electrolytes, and snacks. Race-day food listed includes peanut butter and jelly, chips, cookies, quesadillas, grilled cheese, pickles, candy, crackers, potatoes, gummies, a variety of sodas, water, ice, and electrolytes; vegan options will be available. Finish meal details are to be determined.

Participant swag includes a T-shirt, headbands, and a runner light. All finishers receive a medal; custom plaques are awarded to the top three male and female finishers. Discounts are offered via codes: Military 25% for active and retired, First Responders 25%, and Donor 10%; proof must be provided within 24 hours of signup.

The race-name references local folklore: the pere malfait is a Cajun swamp creature, a large humanoid covered in Spanish moss that sometimes leaves a pile of moss when it vanishes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.