Rockin K Trail Run

Event Overview

The Rockin K Trail Run is the 28th annual event, scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026. The races take place at Kanopolis State Park near Ellsworth, Kansas.

Distances & Structure

The event offers four trail running distances:

• 50K
• Marathon
• 21 mile
• 4 mile

The course consists of interconnected trail loops: Horsethief Canyon, Prairie Trail, Alum Creek Trail, and Big Bluff. The marathon loop is described as the "Rockin'K loop." The 21-mile race does not include the Big Bluff Loop. The 50K runners complete the Big Bluff loop twice. The 4-mile course is a loop from the start/finish area into Horsethief Canyon and back.

Participation Details

Participation is limited to 120 entrants across all races combined, with entries accepted on a first-come basis. Packet pickup is available on Friday before the race from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and again on race morning starting at 5:00 am. There is a mandatory pre-race briefing at 6:30 AM on race day. All finishers receive an award. A post-race lunch is provided for entrants, with a vegetarian option available. Technical blend t-shirts are offered in men's and ladies sizes. Dogs are allowed on the course if kept on a leash, with finisher awards available for canine participants in the longer races.

Logistics & Rules

The start and finish are at the Corral shelter house in the Rockin K campgrounds. There is a 12-hour time limit for the 50K, Marathon, and 21 mile races, and a 3-hour limit for the 4 mile race. A cutoff requires all runners to depart the Gate 6 aid station heading to the finish by 4:00 PM. The final cutoff for all races is 7:00 PM. Crews are only permitted at the Gate #6 aid station, which is not accessible by vehicle and requires a half-mile walk. Pacers are not allowed. Drop bags are permitted but must be clearly marked. Aid stations are provided, including manned and possibly unmanned water stations. The event notes that weather conditions can vary widely. Runners must follow pink ribbons on the outbound route and orange ribbons on the return route. Several trail rules are stated, including that horses have the right of way and runners must not cut the course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.