Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K
Jupiter, United States • 18 Apr 2026
Overview
The Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K is a run/walk fundraiser for Els for Autism. The event takes place at The Els Center of Excellence in Jupiter, Florida.
Event Details
The 5 km off-road course starts and finishes at The Els Center of Excellence. The route goes through the adjacent North Jupiter Flatwoods Natural Area. This 160-acre preserve features mesic flatwoods, wet flatwoods, depression marsh, and dome swamp ecosystems. The trail is noted as the first certified autism-friendly trail in Florida.
The event includes multiple activities:
- Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K
- Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K (Ages 14 and Under)
- Sensory-Friendly Obstacle Course (located on campus)
- Virtual Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K
After the race, a Post-Race Expo features vendor booths. These include products from businesses led by individuals with autism, sponsors, and autism employment partners. Food is provided by the Big Easy Cafe by Ernie Els.
Additional Information
Packet pickup is available in the days before the event at the Big Easy Cafe, located in the Adult Services Building on The Els Center of Excellence campus. The cafe offers free coffee with the purchase of an entrée during specified packet pickup hours. Strollers and pets are not permitted on the North Jupiter Flatwoods trail. Parking is available on site. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.