Royal Oaks Sunrise Trail Race

Royal Oaks Sunrise Trail Race

The Royal Oaks Sunrise Trail Race is an off road trail event held at the Royal Oaks Trailhead in the Big Creek Conservation Area near Kirksville, MO. The course runs south on Royal Oaks Ridge; the 10K continues counterclockwise on the Rainbow Basin Loop in Thousand Hills State Park, while the 5k is an out and back along Royal Oaks Ridge. Both routes offer sunrise views over Forest Lake.

This is a low tech event with a low entry fee of $15. All proceeds from the race benefit FLATS, the Forest Lake Area Trail System. Trucker hats are available for purchase and donations to FLATS are encouraged. Parking at the Royal Oaks Trailhead is limited, so carpooling is encouraged.

Runner support includes one aid station located at 1.5 miles and again at 4.5 miles, which is the turnaround point for 5k participants. There is no packet pick up; runners check in on race day at the start and finish area to receive a race bib. Awards for the 10K include free entry for the overall male and female winners into the FLATS Trail Half Marathon and trucker hats for age division winners. Overall 5k winners also receive trucker hats. All finishers receive a commemorative race car sticker.

The event runs rain or shine and organizers may delay, cancel, or modify the race or course for safety reasons. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.