Royal Oaks Sunrise Trail Race

Royal Oaks Sunrise Trail Race, Kirksville MO

The Royal Oaks Sunrise Trail Race takes place on trails that start and end at the Royal Oaks Trailhead in the Big Creek Conservation Area. The entire course is off road and follows Royal Oaks Ridge south. The 10K course continues counter-clockwise on the Rainbow Basin Loop in Thousand Hills State Park. Runners on both courses pass viewpoints that include a sunrise vista over Forest Lake. The 5K is an out and back along Royal Oaks Ridge.

• 10K
• 5K

Entry proceeds benefit the Forest Lake Area Trails System (FLATS). The event carries a low entry fee and offers trucker hats for purchase; all race proceeds go to FLATS. Parking at the trailhead is limited, so participants are encouraged to carpool. There is not a packet pick-up; runners check in on race day at the start/finish to collect a race bib.

Support on course includes an aid station located at 1.5 miles and at 4.5 miles, which serves as the turnaround for 5K participants. Awards include free entry into the FLATS Trail Half Marathon for overall 10K winners, trucker hats for age division 10K winners and overall 5K winners, and a commemorative car sticker for all finishers. Course records stand at 38:27 for men and 44:19 for women; the 2022 event used an alternate course.

The event runs in rain or shine; organizers may delay, cancel, or alter the course for safety. Registration is a fundraiser for FLATS and is nonrefundable, with transfers permitted through the event registration system by August 20. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.