Run the Mounds

Event overview

Run The Mounds takes place on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Mounds State Park, 4306 Mounds Rd, Anderson, IN 46017. The event includes multiple distances and a children's fun run. Events include:

• 5 miles
• 5K run
• 5K walk
• Kids 1 mile Fun Run (free)

Student entries are offered for some events; the 5MI student category is open to ages 19 and under.

Course and logistics

Both the 5MI and 5K courses are about 92% trail and 8% blacktop. Courses start on grass and use the park trail system. Trails may have ruts, rocks, stumps, roots, leaves and other natural debris; under some conditions there may be mud, water hazards, or slippery/icy sections. There are two water stops on course, at the 1.5 mile and 3.0 mile marks, with volunteers dispensing filled cups. The race start area is the Woodland Shelter (about one mile from the park entrance) and the finish is in the field opposite the shelter. Parking is limited; organizers request parking only in designated lots and not on roads or grass unless directed by a park ranger.

Pre-registration ends at 11:59 PM EST on October 28, 2026, or when events sell out. Some student event registration ends October 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM EDT. There is no day-of registration. Packet pickup is available day-of; packet pickup closes at 1:45 PM.

Timing, awards and post-race

All race participants are timed with a chip on their race bib and are asked to wear the bib on the front. All finishers receive a finisher medal. Top three male and female overall finishers receive a special overall medal or plaque for each timed race; there are no separate age-group awards. Post-race food and refreshments are served at the main pavilion and include bananas, chili (including vegan and vegetarian), cookies, brownies, chips, Gatorade, and bottled water. Proceeds support ARRC activities, the Roady Racers children's run series, and Mounds State Park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.